Disable Windows Startup Programs

Startup items are the programs, shortcuts, folders, drivers, etc... that are set to run automatically at startup when a user signs in to Windows. Startup items can be added by either the programs or drivers you install, or manually by you. You can disable startup programs to speed up boot time, and save system memory.

MSConfig is primarily a troubleshooting tool, but its simple interface makes it a good option for startup management as well. In Windows 8.1 and 8 you can use Task Manager to stop programs from running at startup.

• In Windows  7, Press Windows + R and type msconfig into box > Startup tab > Uncheck the box to stop a program from launching automatically.

• In Windows 8 and 8.1 You can disable startup programs from Task manager. Click on Windows Taskbar on the bottom of the screen and choose Task Manager > Go to the Startup tab > Right click on any program you want to disable.
• In Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 You can disable services from MSConfig. You can click on "Hide Microsoft Services" and uncheck any unwanted services. (Services will be covered in another topic and I suggest using "services.msc" to disable them, So I suggest leaving them alone for the time being.)

On the upper window you see MSConfig Service tab. Lower window shows how to disable Programs from Task Manager.

Alternatively you can use cleaning softwares such as CCleaner to disable startup programs.

Tools > Startup and Click on the Program you want to disable.

You can also add or remove items to Windows Startup Directory.

• For Specific User: 

• C:\Users\YOU\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

• For All users:

• C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup