How to Speed Up Windows XP Using MSConfig

Access the Windows System Configuration Utility with the "msconfig" command.

With the addition of new programs and files, your computer may become sluggish over time. Programs such as instant messengers, DVD reading and burning software, word processing tools and security programs load when you start the computer, reducing start-up speed and using valuable computer resources. You can use the Windows System Configuration Utility to remove programs from your start-up queue.

Instructions

1. Go to the "Start" menu. Click "Run." Type "msconfig" in the text bar. Click "OK." Wait for the System Configuration Utility to load.

2. Click the tab "Startup" in the System Configuration Utility dialog window.

3. Remove check marks from the boxes of programs you want to prevent from starting up when Windows starts by clicking the small box next to each program file.

4. Click "OK." Click "Restart" in the confirmation program. Allow Windows to reboot.

Tips & Warnings

• If you caused an error or want to restore the original start-up settings, go to the "General" tab in the System Configuration Utility and select "Normal Startup."

• See the Resource link for a list of the most common files listed in the System Configuration Utility start-up list.

• Do not remove Windows operating system files, such as "explorer.exe," from the start-up menu. This file and others like it are necessary to run the operating system and other important Windows programs.

References

• Microsoft: Restore Your Computer's Performance with Windows XP
• PC Hell: How to Speed Up Windows Boot Time

Resources

• Process Library: Home