How many programs do you have loading when you start Windows? And of those, how many of them do you really need? Most users have way too much junk loading and it just slows down their computer. For those who aren’t yet on Vista, a great solution is Startup Control Panel.

Startup Control Panel installs itself as a Control Panel applet in Windows (most versions before Vista). When run, it gives you lists of everything that runs when you start your computer. If you’ve never seen this list, it will be a little shocking at first to see all the junk. For those running CorelDRAW 12 and X3, it also lists the “updater” for those apps that can be so annoying. Uncheck the things you don’t want to run on startup and they won’t be running the next time you start Windows. If you later decide you need them, just recheck those options. Startup Control Panel provides a great way to boost the speed of your computer!