The Windows 7 operating system provides many tools for managing the startup procedure. In addition to editing a folder located in the computer's file system, you can change the registry settings or run a specialized startup management program.
Startup folder
To get to the startup folder, you need to use the corresponding section of the computer's file system. In Windows 7, click on the "Start" - "Computer" menu. Select the "Local drive C:" section, from where go to ProgramData - Microsoft - Windows - Start Menu - Programs - Startup.
If you do not see the ProgramData folder when you go to Local Drive C:, you will need to change the attributes for showing hidden files and directories. In the upper part of the "Explorer" window, click on the "Tools" - "Folder options" menu after pressing the Alt keyboard button to bring up a list of possible operations. You will see a configuration window for displaying files in directories. Go to the "View" tab and scroll down the slider to the "Advanced options" section. Check the box next to "Show hidden files and folders", then click "OK" to apply the changes.
By going to your startup folder, you will be able to host your applications that you want to start at system startup. It is enough to copy the program shortcuts to this directory, which should be launched after reboot. Restart your computer to apply the changes and verify that the files are placed correctly.
Msconfig
Msconfig is a standard Windows utility that allows you to manage system settings and change startup sections. Go to Start Menu - All Programs - Accessories and then click Run. Type msconfig and press Enter. In the window that appears, click on the "Startup" tab. You will see a list of applications that start with the system when you turn on your computer. To disable one of the programs, uncheck the unnecessary item, and then click "OK" to save the changes. Restart your computer for the above action to take effect.
In addition to Msconfig, you can use programs such as CCleaner or AnVir Task Manager, which provide advanced tools for managing programs that load with the system.
Editing the registry
To go to the Registry Editor, run the regedit command in the Run section. Go to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE - SOFTWARE - Microsoft - Windows - CurrentVersion - Run branch using the list on the left side of the window. In the center, you will be presented with a list of programs that run along with the system. Highlight the unnecessary item and delete it if you do not want the program to start at startup anymore. After applying the changes, reboot.
