When you turn on your Windows 7 computer, some programs will automatically start running. This might be convenient for some users but it can also cause the computer to take longer to start up and can affect its overall performance. In this article, we will guide you on how to change the startup programs in Windows 7.
Steps
Step 1: Open System Configuration
To change the startup programs, you will need to first open the System Configuration. You can do this by clicking on the Start button and typing “msconfig” in the search box. Press “Enter” to open the System Configuration window.
Step 2: Click on the Startup tab
After opening the System Configuration window, you will need to click on the Startup tab to see the list of programs that automatically start when you turn on your computer.
Step 3: Uncheck the programs you don’t want to start at startup
To stop a program from starting up at startup, uncheck the box beside the program. This will remove the program from the list of startup programs. You can uncheck as many programs as you want.
Step 4: Click Apply and OK
After unchecking the programs you don’t want to start at startup, click on the Apply button at the bottom right corner of the window, then click on the OK button to apply the changes.
Step 5: Restart your computer
To ensure that the changes are applied, you will need to restart your computer. Click on the Restart button when prompted to do so.
Step 6: Check if the programs you unchecked are no longer starting up
After restarting your computer, check if the programs you unchecked are no longer starting up. If they are still starting up, repeat the steps above to ensure that the changes are applied.
Step 7: Use Task Manager to disable startup programs
Another way to disable startup programs in Windows 7 is through the Task Manager. You can open the Task Manager by pressing “Ctrl+Shift+Esc” on your keyboard. Click on the Startup tab to see the list of startup programs.
Step 8: Disable startup programs in Task Manager
To disable a startup program in Task Manager, right-click on the program and select “Disable”. This will remove the program from the list of startup programs.
Step 9: Use a third-party program to manage startup programs
There are also many third-party programs that you can use to manage startup programs. These programs can give you more control over the programs that start up when you turn on your computer.
Step 10: Research before installing third-party programs
However, before installing a third-party program, make sure to research and read reviews to ensure that the program is safe to use and won’t harm your computer.
Step 11: Clean up your computer regularly
To maintain the performance of your computer, it’s important to regularly clean up your computer. This includes removing unused programs and files, scanning for viruses and malware, and defragmenting your hard drive.
Step 12: Restore programs you accidentally disabled
If you accidentally disabled a program and want it to start up again at startup, you can simply go back to System Configuration or Task Manager and check the box beside the program to restore it.
Explanation
After following the steps above, you will be able to change the startup programs in Windows 7. Disabling startup programs can help your computer start up faster and improve its overall performance. However, it’s important to only disable programs that you don’t use regularly and to research before installing third-party programs.
It’s also important to regularly clean up your computer to maintain its performance. Removing unused programs and files, scanning for viruses and malware, and defragmenting your hard drive can all help improve your computer’s speed and performance.
Tips and Tricks
Tip 1: Only disable programs that you don’t use regularly
Disabling too many programs can affect your computer’s performance and can cause some programs to not work properly. Only disable programs that you don’t use regularly.
Tip 2: Research before installing third-party programs
Before installing a third-party program to manage your startup programs, make sure to research and read reviews to ensure that the program is safe to use and won’t harm your computer.
Tip 3: Regularly clean up your computer
To maintain the performance of your computer, regularly clean up your computer by removing unused programs and files, scanning for viruses and malware, and defragmenting your hard drive.
Tip 4: Use a program like CCleaner to clean up your computer
CCleaner is a popular program that can help you clean up your computer. It can remove unused files, clean up your registry, and uninstall programs.
Tip 5: Disable startup programs for faster startup
Disabling startup programs can help your computer start up faster, especially if you have many programs that start up at startup.
Tip 6: Use antivirus software to keep your computer safe
Using antivirus software can help keep your computer safe from viruses and malware, which can affect your computer’s performance.
Tip 7: Defragment your hard drive regularly
Defragmenting your hard drive can improve your computer’s performance by rearranging files so that they are stored more efficiently.
Tip 8: Use a program like Malwarebytes to scan for malware
Malwarebytes is a popular program that can help you scan for and remove malware from your computer.
Tip 9: Check for updates regularly
Make sure to check for updates for your operating system and other programs regularly, as updates can improve the performance and security of your computer.
Tip 10: Use a program like Revo Uninstaller to remove programs
Revo Uninstaller is a program that can help you remove programs completely from your computer, which can help improve your computer’s performance.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Changing Startup Programs in Windows 7
Advantages
1. Improved Startup Time: By removing unnecessary programs from starting up with Windows 7, you can significantly improve the startup time of your computer.
2. More Stable System: With fewer programs running in the background, your system will likely have more resources available to perform necessary tasks, leading to a more stable overall experience.
3. Increased Security: Malicious programs often try to hide themselves by disguising as startup programs. By reviewing and removing any suspicious programs, you can help improve the security of your computer.
4. More Control: By choosing which programs start with Windows 7, you have more control over the overall performance of your system.
5. Reduced Background Noise: Fewer startup programs means fewer background processes running, leading to less noise and distractions while using your computer.
6. More Space: Some programs may automatically start with Windows and run in the background, taking up valuable hard drive space. By removing these programs, you can free up space for other uses.
7. More Energy Efficiency: With fewer programs running, your computer will consume less energy, leading to potential cost savings on your electricity bill.
8. Improved Microsoft Updates: By reducing the number of programs running, your computer may perform better when installing updates released by Microsoft as these updates often require a lot of system resources.
9. Fewer Crashes: By removing unnecessary programs from running, you may experience fewer system crashes and errors.
10. Less Maintenance: With fewer programs running, there may be less need for maintenance such as disk clean-up and defragmentation.
Disadvantages
1. Limited Functionality: Disabling or removing certain startup programs might affect the functionality of other programs installed on your computer.
2. Increased Boot Time for Individual Programs: When programs aren’t set to open automatically at startup, you’ll have to wait for them to open each time you need to use them individually.
3. Human Error: Removing certain programs from startup can also cause issues if you accidentally remove essential programs.
4. Complications for Beginners: Changing startup programs in Windows 7 can be complicated for beginners, so it’s best to proceed with caution.
5. No Instant Results: It may take some time to see the results of changes made to startup programs, and it may require more changes before you see significant improvements.
6. Risk of Causing Harm: If you’re not sure which programs to remove, you might accidentally remove an essential program, causing harm to your computer.
7. Reducing Functionality: Some programs may offer additional features or functions when set to run at startup, which may not be available when launched manually.
8. Unnecessary Maintenance: Tinkering with startup programs may require additional maintenance tasks such as checking for updates and compatibility issues.
9. Increased Boot Time: With fewer programs running, your system may boot faster, but if you add additional programs to the startup list, this might again increase the boot time.
10. May Affect System Performance for Specific Programs: Some programs may have to work more or have fewer system resources available when other programs aren’t running, which might cause reduced performance for these programs.
FAQ
Q1. What are startup programs in Windows 7?
Startup programs are the applications that automatically launch whenever your computer starts up.
Q2. How can I change startup programs in Windows 7?
You can change startup programs by accessing the System Configuration utility and configuring what programs should run at startup.
Q3. What is the System Configuration utility?
The System Configuration utility is a built-in tool on Windows 7 that allows you to manage system settings and startup programs.
Q4. How can I access the System Configuration utility?
Open the “Start” menu, type “msconfig” into the search box, and press enter. This will open the System Configuration utility.
Q5. What should I do before changing any startup programs?
Before changing any startup programs, it is recommended to create a backup or restore point, so you can revert any changes if needed.
Q6. How do I create a backup or restore point?
You can create a backup or restore point by navigating to “Control Panel” > “System and Security” > “Backup and Restore” > “Create a system repair disk”.
Q7. How can I enable or disable startup programs in System Configuration?
Go to the “Startup” tab in System Configuration and check or uncheck the programs you want to enable or disable.
Q8. Should I disable all startup programs?
No, you should only disable programs that you don’t want to run at startup, as some programs are necessary for your computer to function properly.
Q9. How can I identify which programs to disable?
To identify which programs to disable, you can research each program or consult with a technician to determine which programs are important.
Q10. Can I remove startup programs entirely?
No, you cannot remove startup programs entirely, but you can disable them from running at startup.
Q11. What happens if I disable a necessary startup program?
If you disable a necessary startup program, your computer may not function properly, and you may need to enable the program again or seek technical assistance.
Q12. Can I add new programs to startup?
Yes, you can add new programs to startup by using the “Startup” folder in the “Start” menu or by configuring them in the System Configuration utility.
Q13. Why should I change startup programs in Windows 7?
Changing startup programs can help improve your computer’s performance, reduce startup time, and prevent unnecessary programs from running in the background.
How to Change the Startup Programs in Windows 7
Are you tired of waiting for your computer to load all the programs during startup? Fortunately, you can change the startup programs in Windows 7 to improve the speed of your computer. Here are some easy steps to do it.
Conclusion
Changing the startup programs in Windows 7 is a simple process that can help you improve the performance of your computer. By disabling unnecessary programs that run during startup, you can reduce the time your computer takes to start. Moreover, it is also a good way to free up memory usage, which can make your computer run faster and smoother. So, try it out and tweak your startup programs for a better computing experience.
Closing
Thank you for taking the time to read this guide. We hope you find it helpful in improving the speed and performance of your computer. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Have a great day!