Is your Windows 10 PC taking too long to boot up? Unnecessary startup programs and background services can significantly slow down your computer’s performance. Optimizing your startup not only shortens boot times but also frees up resources, making your system more responsive. In this article, we’ll walk through the top 10 ways to clean and optimize your Windows 10 startup, offering step-by-step instructions and tips for both beginners and advanced users.
For Beginners: Basic Startup Cleanup Methods
1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs Using Task Manager
One of the simplest ways to optimize your startup is by disabling programs that automatically launch when Windows boots.
Step-by-step:
– Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
– Click on the Startup tab.
– Review the list of programs. For any app you don’t need at startup, right-click and select Disable.
– Restart your PC to see the effect.
Example: Common programs to disable include Skype, OneDrive (if not used), or third-party app launchers.
2. Use Glary Utilities 1-Click Maintenance
Glary Utilities provides an easy way to clean up and optimize your startup programs.
Step-by-step:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Open Glary Utilities and click on 1-Click Maintenance.
– Check the Startup Manager option.
– Click Scan. Review the recommended optimizations.
– Click Repair Problems. Glary Utilities will disable or suggest disabling unnecessary startup items.
Benefit: Glary Utilities also scans for registry errors and junk files in one go, boosting overall performance.
3. Uninstall Unused Applications
Unused applications can add items to your startup list and slow things down.
Step-by-step:
– Open Settings (Windows key + I).
– Go to Apps > Apps & Features.
– Review the list and uninstall programs you no longer use.
Tip: If unsure, research unfamiliar program names before removing them.
4. Check for Malware or Adware
Sometimes, slow startups are caused by malicious software. Run a scan using Windows Security or your preferred antivirus tool.
Step-by-step:
– Open Windows Security from the Start Menu.
– Click on Virus & threat protection.
– Run a Quick or Full scan.
Bonus: Glary Utilities includes a Malware Remover tool under its Advanced Tools section for an extra layer of protection.
For Advanced Users: Deeper Startup Optimization
5. Clean Up Scheduled Tasks
Some apps schedule background processes that run at startup without appearing in the Startup folder or Task Manager.
Step-by-step:
– Press Windows key + R, type taskschd.msc, and press Enter.
– In Task Scheduler, expand Task Scheduler Library and review scheduled tasks.
– Right-click and disable or delete tasks you do not need, especially those related to uninstalled software.
Caution: Only modify tasks you recognize. Disabling system-related tasks can cause issues.
6. Manage Windows Services
Background services can also impact startup. Use the Services management console to tweak these.
Step-by-step:
– Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
– Review services with Startup Type set to Automatic.
– Right-click and set unnecessary services to Manual or Disabled.
Example: Services for printing or Bluetooth can be set to Manual if not used regularly.
7. Use Glary Utilities Advanced Startup Manager
Glary Utilities has a powerful Startup Manager for deeper control.
Step-by-step:
– Open Glary Utilities and go to Advanced Tools.
– Click on Startup Manager.
– Here, you can view and disable startup items, scheduled tasks, plug-ins, and system services.
– Disable or delay non-essential items for faster boot times.
Benefit: Glary Utilities provides details on each item, helping you make informed decisions.
8. Delay Startup Items
If you need certain programs to launch at startup but don’t want them to slow down boot, you can set them to delay.
Step-by-step:
– In Glary Utilities Startup Manager, select the program and set it to delayed startup.
– Choose the delay time (e.g., 1-3 minutes after boot).
Result: Your essential programs start after the system is fully up, reducing initial boot load.
General Tips (For All Users)
9. Keep Windows and Drivers Up to Date
Updates often include performance improvements.
Step-by-step:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click Check for updates.
– Update device drivers via Device Manager or manufacturer websites.
10. Enable Fast Startup
Windows 10’s Fast Startup feature can speed up boot times.
Step-by-step:
– Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.
– Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
– Ensure Turn on fast startup is checked under Shutdown settings.
Tip: This option may not appear on some systems (usually if hibernation is disabled).
Conclusion
Cleaning up your Windows 10 startup doesn’t have to be complicated. Beginners can make a big difference simply by disabling unnecessary startup programs, running Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance, and staying vigilant for malware. Advanced users can delve into scheduled tasks, services, and advanced options in tools like Glary Utilities for deeper optimization.
By following these top 10 methods, you’ll enjoy faster boot times and a smoother Windows experience. For the best results, make startup optimization a regular part of your PC maintenance routine. If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution, Glary Utilities stands out for its comprehensive, user-friendly approach to startup and overall system optimization.