Software & Apps Windows How to Change Startup Programs in Windows Make your computer run faster so you can get to work or play by Karen Marcus Writer Karen Marcus is a former Lifewire writer who has also written for companies like HP, Intel, IBM, Samsung, and others. our editorial process Twitter LinkedIn Karen Marcus Updated on July 31, 2020 Tweet Share Email Windows The Ultimate Laptop Buying Guide When your computer boots up, it starts a number of programs before it’s ready to use, like iTunes Helper, Adobe Reader, Skype, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Office. Many of them may be useful, but the more programs your computer runs during this process, the longer it takes to start; too many programs running could also slow down your computer’s overall performance, including other programs you’re trying to use. Fortunately, you have control over which Windows startup programs you allow to run. Keep in mind you can always start a program manually if you need it. These instructions apply to PCs running Windows 10, 8, and 7. Change Startup Programs in Windows 10 and 8 To change the Windows 10 and Windows 8 startup programs, you’ll use Task Manager. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. At the top of the application, select the Startup tab. Select the Status column to sort the applications into Disabled and Enabled. Disabled means the program doesn’t run when you start your computer; Enabled means it does. Examine the list to see if there are any enabled applications you don’t need running all the time. If you’re unsure, leave them running. To disable any application, right-click anywhere in its row and select Disable. When finished, select the X in the upper right corner to exit Task Manager. Reboot your computer to allow the changes to take effect. How to Change Windows 7 Startup Programs To change the Windows 7 startup programs, you’ll use MSConfig. Open the Start menu. In the search box, type msconfig.exe. Select msconfig.exe. In the System Configuration window, select the Startup tab. You should see a list of every program that runs when the computer starts. Review the list and determine if there are any applications you don’t need running all the time. For those you identify, ensure the checkbox next to the program name is unchecked. If in doubt, leave the program enabled. When finished, select OK. A dialog box prompting you to restart will appear. Select Restart. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Email Address Sign up There was an error. Please try again. You're in! Thanks for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. Thank you for signing up. Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit