Open the start-up list
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and choose Startup apps (on Windows 10, the Startup tab). In Windows 11 you can also use Settings → Apps → Startup.
Check the impact
Look at the “Start-up impact” column. High-impact programs you don't need straight away are the ones to turn off.
Disable what you don't need
Right-click a program and choose Disable. It isn't uninstalled — you can still open it when you need it, and you can switch it back on any time.
Leave security software alone
Don't disable your antivirus, Windows Security, touchpad or audio drivers.
Restart and compare
Restart and see how long it takes. If start-up is still slow, low disk space, an old hard drive or malware may be the cause.
Do it in one click — freeAiActions PC Helper checks all of this for you in about a minute and explains what it finds in plain English. Free health check any time, plus one free fix session. Nothing changes without your OK.
Questions
Is it safe to disable start-up programs?
Yes, for apps like chat programs, game launchers and updaters. Disabling only stops them starting automatically — it doesn't delete anything.
Why is my PC still slow to start?
An old spinning hard drive is a common reason. Swapping it for an SSD usually cuts start-up time dramatically.