Microsoft has highlighted a simple method to speed up Windows computers by turning off unnecessary startup applications, tech publication Neowin reported.
Citing official materials from the software company, Neowin noted that specialists at the IT giant acknowledged that computers can launch too many programs during system startup. These applications continue to run in the background, consuming resources and slowing down performance.
Representatives for Microsoft explained that they disclosed the technique because many computer owners are unaware that the feature exists. Software programs often configure themselves to start automatically when installed, accumulating over time and delaying system boot times.
Disabling startup applications in Settings
To disable non-essential startup programs on computers running any version of the Windows operating system, users must first turn on their machine and open the Settings menu.
From the main Settings screen, users should navigate to the Applications section and then select the Startup subsection. This section lists the software programs that are configured to open automatically every time Windows boots up.
Users can review the listed applications, identify any non-essential programs, and switch them off to prevent them from launching automatically during startup.
Using Task Manager to monitor system resources
For experienced users seeking more detailed information about how individual programs affect computer speed, Microsoft recommended using the built-in Task Manager utility.
Users can open Task Manager directly by pressing the Ctrl, Shift and Esc keys simultaneously on their keyboard. The utility provides a comprehensive overview of active system processes.
Within Task Manager, the Startup Apps section lists the specific processes responsible for each program. It also provides real-time metrics showing how much central processing unit capacity and random-access memory each application consumes.
Journalists at Neowin concluded that while veteran Windows users are likely familiar with managing startup programs, Microsoft's reminder offers practical help for people who are less technically experienced.
Recommended timeframe for urgent operating system updates
The advice follows earlier maintenance recommendations issued by Microsoft regarding operating system security and stability.
The company previously advised Windows users to install urgent operating system updates within three days of their release. To ensure updates are applied promptly, Microsoft recommended turning on the automatic installation feature within Windows.
