How to check which programs start when your computer turns on
Open Task Manager by right-clicking the taskbar and clicking Task Manager, then click the 'Startup' tab. You'll see every program set to run when Windows starts. Click any app and click 'Disable' at the bottom right if you don't want it running automatically anymore.
Your computer can have dozens of programs set to start automatically when it boots. Email, messaging apps, cloud backups, security software, and more. Each one that loads adds time to your startup and uses memory and CPU in the background. The Startup tab in Task Manager shows you exactly which programs are set to run, and you can disable any you don't need. Disabling them doesn't delete the programs, it just stops them from opening automatically when you turn on your computer.
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Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Disabling system programs by accident. Anything with 'Microsoft' as the publisher should stay enabled, unless it's something you know you don't want
- Expecting your computer to boot instantly after disabling a few programs. It helps but won't be lightning fast if your hard drive is slow
- Disabling your antivirus or security software by accident. If you see Norton, McAfee, Windows Defender, or similar names, leave those enabled
Signs you need professional help
- Task Manager won't open or shows an error You disabled programs but your computer still boots very slowly You're unsure whether a program is safe to disable
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