Got an msconfig question about startup items

[Dudley Henriques]

I'm puzzled about something and can use an answer if anyone has a free
moment.
In trimming down unwanted applications in msconfig in the startup tab, I'm
always puzzled as to what HAS to be running all the time XP is running and
exactly what can be unchecked to take it out of the startup equation for
Windows.
Naturally I don't want things running all the time that I don't need
running, but I don't know how you tell definitely and for sure whether it's
ok to uncheck something using the msconfig/startup tab.
Is there any way to determine FOR SURE whether something should be left
alone or is safe to uncheck that startup tab using msconfig?
Many thanks
Dudley

 

[Rich Barry]

Dudley, check here for good info
http://www.pacs-portal.co.uk/startup_content.php

 

[Sharon F]

I'm puzzled about something and can use an answer if anyone has a free
moment.
In trimming down unwanted applications in msconfig in the startup tab, I'm
always puzzled as to what HAS to be running all the time XP is running and
exactly what can be unchecked to take it out of the startup equation for
Windows.

There is nothing in this area needed for Windows to run. Most of the
Windows necessities are in services instead of in msconfig> Startup.

However, there may be some items in msconfig that provide functionality or
extra features to hardware attached to your system. For example, keyboard
software that is installed in addition to drivers is not needed to run
Windows or, in most cases, to use just the basic keys. It is needed if one
wants to use the extra keys on a multimedia or Office style keyboard.

Other items in msconfig's startup will be programs that you will want to
pick and choose. Antivirus, for example, is one that you will probably
leave alone in these screens. An update program for some software that you
use once or twice a month? Don't really need that overhead on a daily
basis. This would be a good candidate to consider for disabling as you
could check manually for updates whenever you use the program.

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

Dudley

Most if not all items in the MSconfig start up list will have been installed
by you.. anti-virus, keyboard and printer monitors, SETI etc will all reside
here.. some should be left.. others could be prevented from appearing by
entering the program properties and unchecking 'run at startup' or similar..

 

[Dudley Henriques]

Thanks everybody for the feedback. I appreciate it.Dudley