The MSCONFIG tool is something that some users already know how to do. I think every Windows user should learn how to perform this task as it can get you out of sticky situations. The MSCONFIG allows you to pick and choose what starts when you boot up your computer.

MSCONFIG stands for Microsoft System Configuration Utility. This tool if built in with all Windows systems, from Windows NT to Vista. The MSCONFIG was initially designed to help you repair issues on your computer. Over time, MSCONFIG has helped many users boot their computer faster and have fewer crashes. It is common sense that the more programs operating when you start your computer, the slower the computer will start. That is where MSCONFIG comes in. You, the user, can access MSCONFIG to determine which programs open upon startup. I bet that there are many applications running on your computer upon startup that you don’t even know are there! These hidden programs lurk in your system making it sluggish and more likely to have a system failure.

Going in to the MSCONFIG and eliminating some of these startup programs can drastically improve the speed and reliability of your computer. To access MSCONFIG from a Windows XP system you can go to the Start Menu and select Run. Then type in msconfig and press Enter. A dialog box will appear with a list of programs, select the Startup Tab. Uncheck each thing that you do NOT want running upon startup and click OK. You will then be prompted to restart your computer; click Restart and your computer will automatically do so.

If it turns out that you disabled something that  you did not intend to, you can always go back in and check the box so that it will start up when your computer boots. Your computer may give you the message that you are running on Selective Startup, just check Do Not Show This Message Again and click OK.

If you are running on Windows Vista you will need to do things a little bit different. Start off by clicking the Vista start icon that is on the bottom-left corner of your screen. This brings up the Run option so type in msconfig and press Enter. Alternatively, you can type in msconfig and double-click the msconfig option that the search finds above.

Vista will ask if you are sure you want to continue because you could possibly make changes that damage your system. A dialog box may appear asking you to log in as the Administrator on the account. After you continue, Vista should launch the MSCONFIG utility. Make sure you are on the Startup Tab to perform the task. You will then see a list of items that have the option of starting once your computer boots up. The items that are checked are the ones that are already operating once your computer starts. Windows Vista combines all Windows vital programs to Windows Services. It is highly recommended that you keep that item checked, along with your anti-virus programs. All other listings are completely optional and may be turned off.

MSCONFIG is a surprisingly useful tool that Windows provides each user. You can go through monthly, weekly or however often you like to make sure there is nothing running upon startup that you don’t want there.

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