Likely fix
Fix: PC takes too long to start
Slow startup is usually caused by too many startup apps, pending updates, an old hard drive, background sync apps, or a system that was not fully shut down.
Quick answer
Disable unnecessary startup apps in Task Manager, restart the PC, and check whether Windows is still finishing updates.
Important warning
Do not disable apps you do not recognize if they look like drivers, security software, or hardware utilities.
Try this
- 1 Restart the PC once before changing settings.
- 2 Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- 3 Open the Startup apps tab.
- 4 Disable apps you do not need immediately after login.
- 5 Leave security software and important drivers enabled.
- 6 Install any pending Windows updates.
- 7 If startup is still very slow and the PC uses an old hard drive, consider upgrading to an SSD.
Common causes
Too many startup apps.
Cloud sync apps starting at login.
Pending Windows updates.
Old mechanical hard drive.
Security software scanning at startup.
What to check next
- Check Startup apps in Task Manager.
- Check whether Windows Update is still installing.
- Check whether OneDrive, Dropbox, Steam, Teams, Discord, or game launchers start automatically.
- Check whether the PC has an SSD or old hard drive.