Access the System Configuration Utility

The Windows System Configuration Utility, also known as MSConfig, is a utility that is used to troubleshoot the Microsoft Windows startup process. You can use the System Configuration Utility to disable software, device drivers and Windows services that run at startup. You can also use this utility to change boot parameters. You can access the System Configuration Utility in all versions of Windows, except Windows 2000 and Windows 95.

Steps

How to Access the System Configuration Utility in Windows XP

  1. Click the "Start" button in the lower left corner of the screen, and then click "Run."
  2. Type "msconfig" in the Open field and click "OK." The System Configuration Utility window opens.

How to Access the System Configuration Utility in Windows Vista and Windows 7

  1. Click the "Start" button.
  2. Type "msconfig" in the search field to access msconfig utility and press "Enter." You can also double-click MSCONFIG that appears in the search results. The System Configuration Utility opens.

How to Use the System Configuration Utility to Disable Services

  1. Click the Startup tab at the far right.
  2. Browse through the list of items after you click the Startup tab. These are the programs that automatically startup every time you turn on the computer. Some of these programs are necessary, but others are not.
  3. Uncheck the items you do not need to run at startup. Only uncheck items you recognize and know you don't need. If you don't know what it is, do not change it.
  4. Click the "OK" button when you are finished.
  5. Click the "Restart" button to reboot your computer when prompted.

How to Use the System Configuration Utility to View Services

  1. Click the "Services" tab.
  2. Look through the list of Services running on your computer. Services run in the background.
  3. Do not disable any services, as most services are Microsoft services and are essential for your computer.

Warnings

  • Do not disable any startup items unless you are certain what it is. Some startup items are essential and should not be disabled.

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Sources and Citations

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