Windows has a list of applications that load at startup, and using the MSCONFIG tool you can disable any applications you don’t want to load.

To disable applications, follow these instructions:

1. Hold down the Windows key and hit R, (or go to the Start Menu and click Run).
2. Type MSCONFIG, and click OK.
3. MSCONFIG should load as pictured to the right.
4. Along the tabs at the top of the window, select Startup.
5. If an application is checked, it will load at startup. To stop an application from loading at startup, uncheck it.

If you’re unsure about what an application does, Google the name to research it.