Startup Optimizer improves the time it takes your PC to start by disabling unneeded startup programs. It also improves system performance by blocking unnecessary programs at startup that would otherwise be constantly running in the background as you use your computer.


Various programs and services are set to load when Windows loads. Some of these programs, such as antivirus protection, are desired, but many are useless. System Mechanic's Optimize Windows Startup tool can remove unneeded items from the startup process and boost your PC's speed, particularly the time it takes to boot.


To access Startup Optimizer:

  1. From the left navigation panel of System Mechanic, highlight Toolbox and select Speed Up, to display a list of optimization tools.


  2. From the tool selections list, select Startup Optimizer. Startup Optimizer will load the startup programs into a list. For your convenience the Startup Optimizer window defaults to displaying only the Potentially unwanted items that it has found.


    The startup items list is organized as follows:
    1. The Name column displays the software, processes and services currently set to launch at startup.

    2. The Community Choice column lets you see what percentage of other System Mechanic users are keeping each particular startup item on, delaying it or turning it off. Note: User community results are intended as research tools only, not as recommendations to keep or turn off any given program.

    3. The Importance column displays which among six categories each item is. Startup categories are organized by level of importance:
      • System - Windows applications and services necessary to the normal functioning of your PC.
      • Necessary - Non-Windows applications and services necessary to normal PC function.
      • Unknown – Any program whose importance is not immediately known by System Mechanic.
      • User Choice - May or may not be essential to the normal operation of your PC, depending on your needs. Examples include printer drivers, Cloud-based backup services or media players.
      • Unnecessary - Not essential to the normal operation of your PC. These files are typically running to provide quick access to various programs but may inadvertently clutter and slow your system.
      • Dangerous - Known security risks that hinder the normal operation of your PC and should be turned off.

    4. The Status column shows you how you currently have set each startup item to perform: launch at startup, not launch at startup, or launch once the system is fully booted and will be minimally impacted by the program launching. Use the three-way option buttons to keep a program on (Keep on), Delay it from starting until after your system is completely booted, or off (Turn off). (Some Windows startup items are critical for startup and cannot be delayed).


  3. Click the drop-down arrows on the far-right of the Startup Optimizer window to view more information about each startup item, including Performance impact data that shows you how much a given program or service is affecting your overall system speed and responsiveness.


  4. To view all startup items regardless of Startup Optimizer's default display of only the Potentially unwanted items, click Expert view (all items).

    WARNING: Use at your own risk. This section includes all startup items that can be configured on your PC, and is designed for use by IT professionals. If you do not know what an item in this section controls, especially if it is classified as System or Necessary, please do not modify its status.

  5. When you are finished with Startup Optimizer, click Exit.