How to Stop the Windows XP Welcome Sound

Over the years, each version of Windows has come with its own soothing signature start-up sound. Windows XP plays a series of welcoming tones as you enter the operating system, with a shorter sound when you log on to your user account. Those who wish to start Windows XP in silence can turn off the default welcome sounds with a few easy steps performed in the Windows XP control panel.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button in the lower left hand corner of the screen.

2. Select the "Control Panel" option from the "Start" menu.

3. Click the "Sounds and Audio Devices" icon and select the "Sounds" tab from the ensuing dialog box.

4. Click through the "Program events" window using the right scroll bar until you see the "Start Windows" sound.

5. Disable the Windows XP welcome sounds. Highlight the "Start Windows" sound option and select "(None)" from the Sounds drop-down box. Click the "Windows Logon" entry in the "Program events" window and select "(None)" from the Sounds drop-down box.

6. Click the "OK" button.

Tips & Warnings

• If you wish to replace the default welcome sounds with new ones, simply browse to the location of the sound file you prefer in Step 5. If you have changed the default Windows XP Start Menu to the "Classic Start Menu" setting, you will need to click the "Settings" category in between Steps 1 and 2.

References

• Ask Dave Taylor Guide to Disable Windows Startup Sound?