Along with the core operating system and programs that Windows XP
runs when it starts, there is also a host of services involved. Many of
these services are necessary for Windows XP to operate correctly. However,
many of them are for features in Windows XP that you may not use at all.
You can peruse the services and disable any service that you do not want
to run. The fewer services that run, the more quickly Windows XP will
boot. To reduce the number of services that start on bootup, you can
access two different areas of Windows XP.
1. The first is the
System Configuration Utility. You can do that by entering the command “msconfig”
in the run menu.
Start Run
“msconfig” (without quotes) || Hit Enter
The Services tab shows
you the services that start when the computer boots. You can stop a
service from starting by simply clearing the check box next to the service
and clicking OK.
2. Another way to
disable services that you may prefer because the interface gives you more
information about the service in question.
- Open Control Panel -
Administrative Tools - Services or Start
Run “services.msc” || Hit Enter
- Take a quick look at
common services you may want to live without:
Automatic Updates: This service enables Windows XP to check the
Web automatically for updates. If you don't want to use Automatic Updates,
you can disable the service.
Computer Browser: If your computer is not on a network, you
don't need this service. If you are on a network, leave it alone.
DHCP Client: If you are not on a network, you do not need
this service. If you are on a small workgroup, you can still increase boot
time by configuring manual IP.
DNS Client: If you are not on a network, you do not need
this service.
Error Reporting and
Event Log: You don't have to use
these services but they can be very helpful, so I would leave them
configured as automatic.
Fax: If you don't use your computer for fax services,
you can disable this one.
Help and Support: Disable if you never use the Windows XP Help and
Support Center.
IMAPI CD-Burning COM: This service enables you to burn CDs on your
computer.If you never burn CDs, you can disable the service without any second
thoughts.
Indexing Service: Your computer keeps an index of all the files.
But if you rarely search for files, the service is just a resource hog.
You can stop it.
Windows
Firewall/Internet Connection Sharing: If you do not use these features, plz disable.
Infrared Monitor: If you do not use infrared devices, you can
disable this service.
Messenger: This service sends alert messages on a local
area network (it is not the same as Windows Messenger). If you are not on
a network, you can disable this service.
Print Spooler: If you do not do any printing from the computer,
you can disable this service. If you print, make sure you leave it as
automatic.
Remote Registry: This service allows remote users to modify the
Registry on your computer. If you are not on a network, you can disable
this service.
System Restore Service: This service allows you to use System Restore.
If you have turned off System Restore anyway, you do not need to turn off
the service.
Themes: If you do not use themes, you can disable this
service.
Windows Image
Acquisition: If you do not use
scanners or digital cameras, you can disable.
Wireless Zero
Configuration: If do not use wireless
networking devices, you can disable.