10 Tips For A Faster Startup

If you turn on your PC and then go fix lunch (and have it half way consumed) before your computer finishes its startup process, then it's probably time to speed up the system's startup process. These tips could help your PC run faster, smoother and trim some time off the startup process.

1) Startup Folder Maintenance
Applications running in the background can drain your system's memory and cause a lag in the startup process. By ridding the Startup Folder of unnecessary programs, your computer should load a bit faster.

2) System Configuration Utility
Stray bits of programs and applications won't only be found in the Startup Folder. You can use the System Configuration Utility to locate and remove more of these unwanted or unnecessary system drains.

3) Disable Auto Insert
Some people find the feature which allows audio and data CDs to instantly play when you place them in the drive useful, for others it's an annoyance. By disabling the auto insert function, you may trim a few seconds from the startup process.

4) Lose the Floppy Check
Each time you start the PC, the system checks to see if there are any new floppy disk drives installed. This is particularly useful for portable computers, but probably unnecessary for desktops. Removing the floppy drive check can speed up the PC's startup time, but also reduce wear on the floppy drive.

5) Clean the Registry
The Windows Registry is where configuration values, settings and other application information is stored. Stray remnants of data can weigh down the Registry and result in slower load times.

6) Optimize Msdos.sys File
The purpose of Msdos.sys file is to find the Registry, startup files, and boot drive among other things. Optimizing this file will aid in achieving a faster startup.

7) Clean the Root Directory
Many extra files can accumulate in the root (usually C:) directory and deleting the garbage will help speed up the startup process. Only remove those files that you know aren't needed for booting. If in doubt, don't remove it. What you clean out will vary by system, but always back up any file in the root directory before deleting it. Also, keep a bootable system disk or recovery floppy handy.

8) Trim Virus Scanning
Real-time virus scanning is a handy feature to keep an eye on your system, but it can also hinder your computer's performance. Adjust your anti-virus software to scan one or more times a day to keep the protection you need without taxing your PC's system. Examine your anti-virus software's properties to determine how to shut down real-time scanning.

9) Tweak BIOS
Depending your PC system, you may be able to cut some time from the startup process by manipulating some features in the BIOS.

10) Faster Processor
All the tweaking, optimizing, cleaning and fine tuning mentioned above should shave some time off the PC's startup process, but the only guaranteed way to speed up the system is to upgrade to a faster processor.