Most Windows computers include quite a few programs set to automatically start out-of-the-box. Several years ago, studies found that startup programs installed by a Windows computer's manufacturer could increase a typical Windows computer's boot time by as much as two minutes. Multiply this by the many different programs set to automatically start with Windows on a typical PC and you'll see significant increases in boot time. Small programs may load very quickly, but heavier programs generally take longer to load. Related: How Computer Manufacturers Are Paid to Make Your Laptop WorseĮvery startup program your computer loads increases the time you must wait for a usable Windows desktop. This helps unclutter your taskbar, but it doesn't help speed up your boot times. Windows hides most of these programs in the system tray beneath an arrow by default. On a typical Windows computer, you'll likely find quite a few programs automatically starting with Windows. These could be chat programs, file-downloading applications, security tools, hardware utilities, or many other types of programs. Windows also loads programs that are configured to automatically start with Windows.

When your computer starts - or, more accurately, when you log into your computer - Windows loads your desktop and all the system processes it requires.