Quick overview:
After installation, programs and drivers are simply placed in the autostart folder and appear every time the system is started. This can be useful in many cases, but is often annoying, as you can open the program when you need it by double-clicking on it. Above all, however, memory and processor resources are eaten up, which are then no longer available for other applications.
So it is always advisable to use Start > Programs > Autostart to check this folder and delete anything superfluous if necessary. This will also speed up the loading process.
But what if this folder is already empty and some programs are still stored in the bottom right-hand corner of the taskbar, for example? These programs are stored in a hidden Autostart folder in the Windows registry:
1. Click in succession on Start/Execute and carry regedit in.
2. Make your way through the Registry Branches HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\ SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run and click on File/Export. Now enter the file name Autostart backup so that you can undo everything by double-clicking on that file in the event of errors or difficulties.
3. In the right-hand pane, you will now see all the programs that are loaded automatically. Now select those that you can dispense with (or start manually) and press the Remove button to delete them.
After a restart, you will notice that your system boots up much faster and also works a lot faster and more stable.
NOTE FOR NEW PUBLICATION: This article was produced by Sandro Villinger and comes from the Windows Tweaks archive, which has been built up since the late 1990s.
On Windows Tweaks you will find time-saving tech guides for PC, software & Microsoft. For a stress-free digital everyday life. Already we have been "tweaking" Windows since 1998 and just won't stop!
