Clear the clutter for faster startups
Question:
Hi guys, my name is Derek Gohl from Kitchener ON. Over the past few months I have noticed my computer getting exceptionally slow on start up and even the programs tend to be slow when loading up. I am currently using Windows XP and was wondering why this may be happening and is there anything I can do to fix the problem without having to call a technician such as yourself?
Answer:
We’re so glad you asked this question since it is a very common problem with many of our customers. Fortunately, there is something you and everyone else can do to combat this. In the popular world of technology, people much like yourself, probably have a digital camera/web cam, printer, MSN messenger and perhaps a file sharing program like LimeWire. When you install the software that comes with these devices/ programs, quite often in these software packages 90% of it is useless information that has no bearing on how the program will perform. Be proactive during the installation process and actually check and uncheck boxes that are most relevant to you during the setup process. Remember you do not need to have yet another toolbar added to your web browser, it does not have to have a shortcut on the desktop and it does not have to start up upon start up of your computer, it will still work when you need it.
Our simple fix suggestion for you and our readers is to have a look at what starts up when you start your computer. When running Windows XP:
1. Click on the START button.
2. Click Run.
3. Type in “msconfig” and click OK.
4. Click on the Start up Tab (far right tab).
5. By analyzing the command field you can select or unselect the programs that you want to run on start up.
For example: you want to keep things like antivirus protection, as well as any administrative software and disable things like Quicktime, Realplayer, Adobe Reader Speed Launch, MSN Messenger and anything that has to do with your printers, cameras, Web cams etc.
If you’re not sure – It’s OK! Try it out and if you have removed a program of importance your PC will let you know and you can follow the prompts and re-enable it again.
Try the simple fix first and if that does not work, we suggest contacting an “IT Professional” and they will do an in depth diagnostic check for other possible problems. Now the reason for the slow start is likely due to all the programs that are loading up when you start your computer.
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