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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.
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