How to reduce the number of programs running at startup


If your PC is taking too long to boot, it’s probably because you have far too many programs running at startup. Reducing this is easy, it will make your PC launch noticeably faster and lighter upon first load. 

To change the items running at startup, go to Run/Search bar using the hotkey Windows key + R, and type msconfig. A small window will appear (see the screenshot above), select the Startup tab. From here you will be able to turn off many startup programs, which can cut several seconds (or minutes) off your boot time. (Note Windows 8 and 10 has moved this functionality to the Task Manager). 
Try to make sure you research what you are turning off as some processes might be needed by third party programs or drivers you have installed.