This holds true for the latest incarnation as well - Windows 7.
Also seeHow to Uninstall Applications Efficiently and Remove Obsolete Files.
poke the up arrow to show hidden icons.
A better way to review startup programs is to use the System Configuration utility.
From the Start menu, entermsconfigin the search box and start it from the search result.
In this utility, click theStartuptab and review each entry.
Advanced users should use the freeAutoruns for Windowsutility from the Microsoft website.
This is the most comprehensive monitor of all kinds of startup programs and services you will ever need.
#3: Adjust Visual Effects
A pretty Windows is not the fastest Windows.
you’ve got the option to adjust visual effects to get better performance from your system.
In Control Panel, search forPerformanceand selectAdjust the appearance and performance of Windowsfrom theSystemcategory in the results.
You should tweak these prefs so that Windows only indexes those locations where you actually search frequently.
In Control Panel, search forIndexingand selectIndexing Options.
In the popup dialog, clickShow all locationsif enabled.
Now, erase the check box for those locations where you rarely search, and clickOK.
InControl Panel, go toPower Options.
hit the down arrow toShow additional plans, and select theHigh performancepower plan.
#7: Tweak Windows Services
This step is for advanced users.
Windows Services run in the background and provide critical Operating System functions for your setup.
However, most users don’t need all the Services that run by default.
Which Service controls should you change?
An excellent trustworthy reference guide is provided by “Black Viper”.
Use theSafeconfiguration in which prefs for 19 services have been changed from their default state.
