How to Improve Computer Boot Times

When your computer takes ages to boot up, it can be frustrating. Long boot times not only waste time but also reduce productivity. Thankfully, there are several ways to improve your computer’s startup speed. This guide covers steps for both Windows and macOS systems to help your computer boot up faster and perform better.

How to Improve PC Startup Times

1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Many programs automatically load when you start your computer. Disabling unnecessary startup items frees up memory and processing power for a quicker boot.

For Windows:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Right-click on any programs you don’t need at startup and select Disable.

For macOS:

1. Open System Preferences > Users & Groups.
2. Select your username and go to Login Items.
3. Highlight any unnecessary items and click minus (-) to remove them from startup.

Tip: Keep essential programs like antivirus or cloud storage but disable others like Spotify or Adobe Reader unless you need them right away.

2. Enable Fast Startup (Windows Only)

Fast Startup, a Windows-specific feature, uses a hybrid shutdown process to load faster by partially saving system data.

How to Enable:

1. Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
2. Click Choose what the power buttons do on the left.
3. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
4. Under Shutdown settings, check the box for Turn on fast startup.

Note: This feature may not work with all systems, so test its effect and disable it if it causes issues.

3. Upgrade to an SSD (Solid State Drive)

SSDs are significantly faster than traditional HDDs, allowing your computer to read and write data quickly. This can drastically reduce boot times.

What to Do:

• If your computer currently uses an HDD, consider upgrading to an SSD.
• You can also install the operating system on the SSD while using the HDD for file storage. If you need assistance with this, contact an IT support professional such as Design2Web IT to flawlessly handle your SSD upgrade.

4. Keep Your Operating System and Drivers Updated

Operating system updates often include optimisations that improve performance and security, while updated drivers ensure your hardware is functioning efficiently.

For Windows:

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.

For macOS:

• Open the Apple Menu and choose System Preferences > Software Update.

Make sure to update drivers for critical hardware like graphics cards, as outdated drivers can slow down boot processes.

5. Adjust Virtual Memory Settings

Adjusting virtual memory can improve performance, especially on older machines. This helps Windows manage memory better, reducing slowdowns during startup.

How to Adjust Virtual Memory in Windows:

1. Open Control Panel and go to System and Security > System.
2. Click Advanced system settings on the left.
3. Under Performance, click Settings, then go to the Advanced tab and click Change.
4. Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size, select your system drive (usually C:), and choose Custom size.
5. Enter a minimum of 1.5 times and a maximum of 3 times your RAM (e.g., if you have 8GB RAM, enter 12288 MB for max).

Incorrect values can negatively impact performance, so adjust carefully.

6. Clear Out Unnecessary Files and Bloatware

Junk files and unnecessary programs take up resources that could otherwise speed up your computer.

For Windows:

• Run Disk Cleanup by typing it into the search bar and choosing which files to delete.
• Uninstall programs you don’t use via Control Panel > Programs and Features.

For macOS:

• Use Finder to drag apps you don’t use to the Trash.

Consider a system cleanup tool like CCleaner (for Windows) or CleanMyMac for more thorough removal of junk files.

7. Disable Animations and Visual Effects

Reducing graphical effects lightens the system load, especially on older or less powerful computers.

For Windows:

1. Go to System Properties by right-clicking This PC and choosing Properties.
2. Click on Advanced system settings.
3. Under Performance, select Settings, then Adjust for best performance or manually disable effects.

For macOS:

• While macOS doesn’t offer as many customisation options, turning off Transparency in System Preferences > Accessibility > Display can help.

8. Check for Malware or Viruses

Malware can run background processes that slow down your computer, especially during boot.

What to Do:

• Use an antivirus program to scan your system regularly.
• Malwarebytes offers free and paid versions for quick, thorough scans.

Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources to prevent malware.

9. Reduce Boot Time in BIOS (Advanced)

If your BIOS has a long boot delay, adjusting settings can help speed up the start-up.

How to Do It:

1. Access the BIOS by pressing a key like F2, Delete, or F10 (depends on the manufacturer) during boot.
2. Look for options like Quick Boot or Fast Boot and enable them.
3. Ensure that your primary boot drive is listed first in the boot order.

Warning: Be cautious while making changes in the BIOS, as incorrect settings can impact your system.

10. Upgrade Your RAM

Adding more RAM allows your computer to handle more processes simultaneously, reducing load times during boot and other tasks. This oftentimes provides a significant improvement in not only boot times but in the general speed of your computer.

If you need help installing new RAM, please contact our IT technicians today for assistance.

Speed Up Your Computer

Improving boot times doesn’t always require technical expertise; with these straightforward tips, you can significantly speed up your computer’s start-up time. Implement these strategies, and if performance issues persist, consider seeking professional support for a thorough system tune-up.

Need help speeding up your computer? Our team is here to help! Contact us to optimise your computer and get it performing at its best.