A brand new system boots up quickly and responds swiftly. However, after a few updates and software installations, Windows starts to slow down. There are various ways to determine if this is just a subjective impression. Use appropriate tools to measure startup times and eliminate system slowdowns. Conduct these measurements before and after making any changes to the system to gauge their effectiveness. Even after Windows displays the desktop, the startup process is not yet complete. The system may still not be ready for user input, causing delays in responding to mouse clicks. The speed at which Windows is ready depends on the programs that automatically start after login. To speed up the system, reduce the number of programs that start automatically.
One way to find out about Windows startup times is to check the Event Viewer logs, which record the times for system startup and shutdown, and any processes that delay startup. Another tool, BootRacer, displays the time it takes for Windows to start up and become ready for use. BootRacer can also deactivate unnecessary autostart programs. Additionally, the Windows Task Manager can be used to disable some autostart programs and display the time required for Windows to start up.
For an alternative autostart configuration, tools like Sysinternals-Autoruns and Glary Utilities offer management of autostart programs and services, and the ability to delay autostarts for faster desktop readiness. Automatic login can also be set up with a change in the registry and a few adjustments in Windows 10 and 11. Furthermore, the automatic Windows update can be deactivated via W10Privacy, allowing users to download updates manually at a convenient time.
By utilizing these tools and methods, users can optimize their Windows startup times and remove unnecessary system brakes, leading to a faster and more efficient system.
