How to Clean Boot Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide
What is Clean Boot in Windows 10?
Before we dive into the process of cleaning boot Windows 10, let’s understand what it means. A clean boot refers to a process where you restart your computer with only the essential drivers and system processes running, which helps to troubleshoot and fix issues related to startup applications, drivers, and services. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to perform a clean boot in Windows 10.
Why Perform a Clean Boot in Windows 10?
Performing a clean boot can be beneficial in several scenarios:
- Troubleshoot startup issues: If your computer is taking too long to start up, or if it’s experiencing issues due to conflicting applications or drivers, a clean boot can help identify the culprits.
- Remove malware: Malware often hides behind unnecessary startup programs and services. A clean boot can help detect and remove these malicious programs.
- Speed up startup: By disabling non-essential startups, you can improve your computer’s performance and reduce startup time.
- Prepare for a master installation: If you plan to perform a reinstallation of Windows 10, a clean boot can help ensure a clean slate for the new installation.
How to Clean Boot Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Create a System Restore Point
Before making any changes, create a system restore point to ensure you can revert to your current state if anything goes wrong. To do this:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup > More recovery options.
- Click on Create a restore point.
- Follow the prompts to complete the process.
Step 2: Disable Fast Startup
Fast Startup can sometimes interfere with the clean boot process. To disable it:
- Go to Settings > Power > Restart settings.
- Toggle off Fast startup.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Step 3: Run the System Configuration Utility
The System Configuration Utility (msconfig.exe) will help you manage startup programs and services. To access it:
- Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type msconfig and press Enter.
- In the Startup tab, click Open.
- In the Startup window:
- Uncheck all the boxes next to the programs you want to disable.
- Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
Step 4: Uncheck Non-Essential Services
Next, let’s uncheck non-essential services:
- In the Services window:
- Uncheck all the boxes next to the services you want to disable.
- Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to apply the changes. When it boots up, only the essential drivers and system processes will be running.
What’s Happening After the Clean Boot?
In the background, the msconfig utility is monitoring the startup processes and services. It will help identify which programs or services are causing issues or slowing down your system. By disabling non-essential processes, you’ll be able to troubleshoot and fix problems related to:
- Corrupt startup programs
- Conflicting drivers
- Malware
Troubleshooting and Fixing Issues
If you encounter any issues during the clean boot process, use the Event Viewer to troubleshoot and identify the problem. You can access the Event Viewer by:
- Pressing Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Typing eventvwr and pressing Enter.
In the Event Viewer, you can filter the events by time frame or type to identify the issue. You can also use other troubleshooting tools, such as System File Checker (SFC) or Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM), to scans for and fix corrupted system files.
Reverting Changes and Re-enabling Services
To revert the changes made during the clean boot process:
- Go back to the System Configuration Utility (msconfig.exe).
- In the Startup tab, recheck the boxes next to the programs you disabled earlier.
- In the Services window, recheck the boxes next to the services you disabled earlier.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
In this article, we’ve covered the steps to perform a clean boot in Windows 10. By using the System Configuration Utility to manage startup programs and services, you can troubleshoot and fix issues related to startup applications, drivers, and services. By following the steps outlined above, you can improve your computer’s performance, reduce startup time, and remove malicious programs from your system. If you encounter any issues during the process, use the Event Viewer and other troubleshooting tools to identify and fix the problem.