BACKGROUND PROGRAMS

Background programs are programs that automatically start when you start your computer.  There are several varieties - firewalls, antivirus programs, messaging programs, device monitors...  The list is extensive.  Windows operating systems  work best when there are few programs running at the same time or you have a lot of memory available.  Even then, if your computer processor is slow, it slows things down a lot if you have to share its power with fifteen other programs at the same time.  Finally, many programs hijack prized areas in the memory of a computer and don't leave, causing 'program errors' (the infamous illegal acts) that cause your program to crash or, worse, your computer to lock up. The bottom line is that the fewer programs you have starting when Windows starts, the faster Windows will load and the better it will run.

Every background program thinks it's the most important program in your computer - and in some cases it's right.  An antivirus program and a firewall (if necessary) should always be running except during very special circumstances.  They are important to the security of your computer.

Any other program is up to you.  Schedulers, internet alert programs, players, etc. none of them are important to the running of your computer.  Some of them can be turned off from starting up when Windows starts in their individual preferences or settings areas.  Each one is different and you can check the help section of each one to do this.  You are not making  the program inoperable.   You can always start it again from the Start>Programs menu.

There are some programs that need a little more persuasion about not starting when the computer starts.  Their start commands are in the Startup menu in the Programs menu.  Unless it is the firewall, there are no programs in the Startup folder that have to be there.  To check, right-click on the Start button and click 'Explore'  Double-click on the Programs folder on the left side of the screen and then click on the Startup folder.   Click on any icon that is not needed and press the Delete key until they're all gone or those who remain are absolutely necessary or desired. (For Windows XP, you should be in administrator mode and you want to explore the start-up folders for all users in turn)

Finally, and most advanced of the methods of reducing the number of programs that start automatically, is the msconfig command.  Click Start, click Run... type in 'msconfig' (no quotes) and click OK or Run. (NOTE: msconfig is unavailable in Windows 2000)

Click on the Start-up tab.  Listed there, their boxes checked, are all the programs that start up when the computer starts.  SOME OF THEM ARE NECESSARY!   Disable ONLY those you recognize by clicking on the check box to UN-CHECK them.   If you aren't sure or don't know, leave it alone.  Generally, the programs are listed by name and location.  Sometimes it's helpful to look at the location and see what folder it's in.  If it's in the Windows folder, it's best to leave it alone.   Most everything else can be disabled, but leave the antivirus and firewall programs alone.  Again, if you aren't sure, don't mess with it.

The msconfig command is moderately advanced.  It's not recommended for you to try this if you are unsure about your computer skills.  Many computer professionals know what programs can be safely disabled.  When in doubt, consult with one.  Many offer tune up specials that can optimize your computer and make it fly (as opposed to crawl) for a very reasonable price.