Are you the victim of a slow start up? At one point or another, we’ve all been there. For anyone who remembers using the Internet at its advent, or remembers the “good ole days” of using Windows95, slow start ups were the norm. Now, when gigabytes of RAM and hard drive space are common, a slow start up generally means there is something wrong with your machine. With a little routine maintenance, you can consolidate, add and remove programs, and ensure that your start up time happens at a more efficient pace through the computer start up menu.

What’s in the Start Up Menu?

Your computer startup menu will vary based on the type of computer you own. Obviously, if you’re using a Windows operating system, it will be quite different than what you’ll experience using an Apple. For the sake of argument, and to stay on task, let’s keep the examples rolling through the Microsoft Corporation.

It is true that most Apple Computers are quicker to start up, and have fewer problems with start up, but in the grand scheme of computer use, they are still in the vast minority.

The computer start up menu on all Windows operating systems, including the most widely used XP and Vista can be found in the lower left corner of the computer screen after the computer has booted, and begins running start up applications. To access the start up menu, you simply need to click on it.

Within the start up menu, you’ll quickly see that it is divided into three sections. You’ll find the ability to log on and log off, change computer users, shut down the computer, etc. You’ll also find a list of your most regularly used programs, providing easy access to them. A shortcut to your default web browser will also be listed at the top of your computer start up menu.

Most importantly, your computer start up menu will provide access to all of your computer programs, your saved documents (including media and photos) and access to computer maintenance programs. Depending on your operating system, you can simply click on all of the options to get a better idea of what each one offers. Like browsing the Internet, you can simply hit the “back” button to return to the original menu.

How is Slow Start Up Related to the Computer Start Up Menu?

Slow start up is an effect that could be the result of many causes. As the computer boots, or starts ups, all start up programs will also begin their applications. Whether it’s Microsoft Office suite, or AOL Instant Messenger, they’re using RAM to get their programs up and running. Too many programs, and you might suffer from a slow start up.

The computer start up menu comes into play as a tool to customize your computer’s boot process. If you’re having consistent issues with a slow start up, this could be one of the reasons why. You may simply have too many program applications starting when the computer is booted.

One way you can combat this issue is by changing the advanced settings to the programs that are running applications at start up. Another way to help your computer start up faster is by consolidating certain programs. There are several entities that allow for the consolidation of communication tools such as instant messengers.

Another issue to be on the lookout for is computer viruses. Run a scan with your anti-virus program. If it seeks and finds, you may have found another culprit slowing down the start up process.