How to Get Rid of Unauthorized Programs That Run From the Start Menu in Windows XP

by Lysis

Overview

When you install applications, some of them add a shortcut in the startup directory for Windows XP. When a shortcut is added to this directory, the program starts every time you reboot the machine. Having too many programs added to this section of the Windows startup increases the amount of time it takes to load the operating system completely. Clearing programs from the startup directory in Windows improves the performance of the machine.

Step 1

Double-click the "My Computer" icon on your desktop. Double-click the "C:" drive. Double-click the "Documents and Settings" directory.
Step 2

Double-click the directory that matches your user name. You can also double-click "All Users" to edit the programs started for every user login.
Step 3

Double-click the "Start Menu" and then the "Programs" directory. The items listed in this directory are all the shortcuts in your Windows "Start" menu.
Step 4

Double-click the "Startup" directory. Delete the icons listed in this directory. These are the programs that start each time you boot Windows.

2
Do not delete shortcuts that are associated with security or antivirus software. Deleting them stops these programs from starting and protecting your machine from viruses or unauthorized access.
Do not delete shortcuts that are associated with security or antivirus software. Deleting them stops these programs from starting and protecting your machine from viruses or unauthorized access.