How to Fix Computer Start Up Problems

If your computer is slow to start up, it may be loading unnecessary programs into memory. Start-up problems can also be caused by viruses, adware and spyware that are infecting your computer. The Windows registry and start-up folder controls how your computer loads programs when it boots. You can use the tools in Windows to prevent these programs from loading, making your computer's start-up time much faster. Your computer will also have more free RAM when Windows finishes booting.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Click Start and then "Search." Select "All Files and Folders." Under "All or part of the file name" type "startup." Click the "Search" button.

2. Open the topmost folder with the name "startup" in the search results when the search has completed. Delete any shortcuts in the Start-up folder that you don't want to load when your computer boots Windows. Repeat this step for each of the other "Startup" folders and program groups in your search results window.

3. Check the internal configuration options of programs that are running at Start-up. Uncheck or disable the option to start the programs when the computer boots Windows.

4. Download and install Windows Defender, if the program is not already on your computer. Start Windows Defender, then click "Tools" and "Software Explorer." Under "Category," select "Startup Programs" from the drop-down menu. Browse the left pane to see which programs are running on your computer. Click on each item and look in the right pane to view the description. Click "Disable" for each program you don't want to run at start-up. Then click "Scan" in the toolbar and select "Full Scan" to scan for adware and spyware on your computer.

5. Click Start and then "Run." Type "msconfig" in the field. Select the "Startup" tab. Remove the check mark beside any item you don't want to start when Windows boots. Look up the name of any file you don't recognize on a website such as LIUtilities.com to find the file's function. If the file is essential to your computer's operation, do not remove the check mark.

6. Run a complete virus scan of your computer. For best results, use a trusted anti-virus software program such as Norton or McAfee Anti-Virus. If you're using free anti-virus software to protect your computer, run an online scan at Kaspersky.com or Symantec.com. However, keep in mind that if you use an online scanner to detect viruses on your computer, you will have to remove them manually.

Resources

• LIUtilities.com
• Symantec Security Scan
• Kaspersky online virus scanner