security

Eliminate Start Up Programs

๐Ÿšซ Eliminate Start-up Programs

Eliminating unnecessary startup programs is a quick way to optimize system performance and narrow down troublesome apps that may be causing conflicts or slowdowns.

๐Ÿ’ป Windows Instructions

Accessing the Startup List

You can access and manage the list of programs that launch automatically using either of these built-in Windows methods:

  • Task Manager: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and navigate to the Startup tab.
  • System Settings: Open Settings (Windows+I) and go to the Startup Apps section.

โ›” Programs to Disable

You should disable pretty much everything in the startup list, as most programs do not need to run immediately when the computer starts.

๐ŸŽ macOS Instructions

Accessing the Startup List

On a Mac, you can manage programs that launch automatically via Login Items:

  • System Settings (macOS Ventura and later): Go to the Apple menu (๏ฃฟ) > System Settings > General > Login Items.
  • System Preferences (macOS Monterey and earlier): Go to the Apple menu (๏ฃฟ) > System Preferences > Users & Groups > Select your user > Login Items tab.

โ›” Programs to Disable

To disable an app, select it from the list and click the minus (โ€“) button. Just like with Windows, you should disable most items to speed up the boot process.

โœ… Programs to Keep Enabled (Both Systems)

Only keep the following categories of software enabled at startup:

  • Security Software: Your primary Antivirus or Malware protection.
  • Wireless, Audio, Device Apps: Essential drivers or control panel software for hardware (e.g., sound card, GPU control).
  • Printer/Scanner Software: If you need quick access to scanning or status monitoring.
  • Synchronization Apps:
    • iCloud Drive, Google Drive
    • OneDrive (*If actively needed for file sync)
  • Fitness/Device Sync Apps:
    • Garmin GPS App
    • Fitbit
    • Etc.
  • Online or Local Backup Apps: Essential for ensuring scheduled backups run correctly.