How to Change What Starts Up on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing what starts up on Windows 10 is a great way to speed up your computer and make it more efficient. Here’s a quick overview: open Task Manager, go to the Startup tab, and disable or enable programs as needed. Easy as pie, right? Now, let’s dig into the details.

How to Change What Starts Up on Windows 10

In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to manage startup programs on Windows 10. This will help you control which programs launch when you start your computer, improving both speed and performance.

Step 1: Open Task Manager

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

Task Manager is your one-stop-shop for managing your system’s performance and startup programs. This shortcut is the fastest way to get there.

Step 2: Go to the Startup Tab

Click on the "Startup" tab at the top.

The Startup tab shows you a list of all the applications that launch when you start your computer. Each application will have its status and impact on startup time listed.

Step 3: Select a Program

Click on the program you want to disable or enable.

Highlighting the program you want to manage is essential before making any changes. This ensures you’re adjusting the right application.

Step 4: Click Disable or Enable

Click the "Disable" button at the bottom right to stop the program from starting up. Click "Enable" if you want to re-enable it.

Disabling unnecessary programs can significantly speed up your computer’s startup time. If you change your mind, you can always come back and enable the program again.

Step 5: Close Task Manager

Close Task Manager when you’re finished.

After making your changes, simply close Task Manager. The changes will take effect the next time you restart your computer.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your computer will start up with only the programs you’ve enabled. This can make your system quicker and more efficient.

Tips for Changing What Starts Up on Windows 10

• Review your startup list regularly to keep your system running smoothly.
• Only disable programs you recognize to avoid accidentally turning off essential system processes.
• Use the "Startup impact" column to identify programs that take a long time to start.
• Consider using third-party software for more advanced startup management.
• Keep your system updated to ensure the best performance and security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Task Manager?

Task Manager is a built-in Windows utility that shows you what programs and processes are running on your computer. It’s also where you manage startup programs.

Is it safe to disable startup programs?

Yes, but be careful. Only disable programs you recognize and are sure you don’t need at startup.

How can I identify unnecessary startup programs?

Look at the "Startup impact" column in Task Manager. Programs with "High" impact can usually be disabled without issues.

Can I re-enable a program if I change my mind?

Yes, you can easily re-enable a program by going back to Task Manager, selecting the program, and clicking "Enable".

Will changing startup programs affect my computer’s performance?

Yes, it can. Disabling unnecessary programs can make your computer start faster and run more efficiently.

Summary

1. Open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Select a program.
4. Click Disable or Enable.
5. Close Task Manager.

Conclusion

Changing what starts up on Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to optimize your computer’s performance. By managing your startup programs through Task Manager, you can reduce boot times and ensure that your computer runs more efficiently. Remember to regularly review your startup list and only disable programs you recognize. With these steps and tips, you’re well on your way to a smoother, faster computing experience. If you found this guide helpful, stay tuned for more tips on optimizing your Windows 10 system. Happy computing!