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Experiencing slow startup or strange errors when you turn on your Windows 11 PC can be frustrating. Often, background programs or services cause these issues. Performing a clean boot helps identify and fix problems by starting Windows with only essential programs running.

This guide will take you through the clean boot process step-by-step. You don’t need to be a technical expert — each step is explained clearly and simply.

By the end, you’ll know how to isolate problematic software and improve your PC’s startup performance. Let’s get started.

Follow along carefully and take your time with each instruction to avoid any mistakes.

Quick Note Before You Begin

• Save your work: Restarting your computer will close all open applications, so make sure to save any important files.
• Administrator access: You need to be signed in as an administrator to perform a clean boot.
• Patience is key: Some steps may take a few moments, especially when opening system tools.
• Backup important data: Although clean boot is safe, it’s always good to have backups of your important files.

What is a Clean Boot and Why is It Important?

A clean boot starts Windows with only the essential services and programs. This means it temporarily disables third-party software and startup items that might be causing problems.

By doing this, you can find out if background programs are interfering with your system’s normal startup. Once you identify the culprit, you can fix or remove it, improving system stability and speed.

Step 1: Open System Configuration

The System Configuration tool is where you control startup settings and services.

1. Click the Start button or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
2. Type msconfig in the search box.
3. Click on the System Configuration app from the results.

This opens a window with several tabs to manage your system startup and services.

Step 2: Disable Startup Items

Startup items are programs that launch automatically when Windows starts. Disabling them helps troubleshoot conflicts.

1. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab first.
2. Check the box at the bottom labeled Hide all Microsoft services. This ensures you don’t disable important Windows services.
3. Click Disable all to turn off all non-Microsoft services temporarily.
4. Next, click the Startup tab, then select Open Task Manager. This opens a new window listing startup programs.
5. In Task Manager’s Startup tab, right-click each enabled program and choose Disable. This stops them from launching at startup.
6. Close Task Manager once you’ve disabled all unnecessary items.
7. Back in the System Configuration window, click OK to save changes.

Step 3: Restart Your Computer

After disabling services and startup programs, you need to restart your PC to apply these changes.

1. Click the Start menu.
2. Select the power icon, then click Restart.

When your PC restarts, it will be in a clean boot state, running only essential programs.

Step 4: Check If the Issue Persists

Use your computer normally to see if the startup problems are resolved.

• If the issue is gone, it means one of the disabled services or startup programs was causing the problem.
• If the problem remains, the cause might be different and not related to startup items.

Step 5: Identify the Problematic Program or Service

To find the exact cause, you’ll re-enable services and startup items one group at a time.

1. Open System Configuration again by typing msconfig in the Start menu.
2. Go to the Services tab, and enable a few services by checking their boxes (do not uncheck “Hide all Microsoft services”).
3. Click OK and restart your PC.
4. Check if the problem returns.
5. If not, repeat the process by enabling more services until the issue comes back.
6. Once the problem reappears, you have identified the problematic service.
7. Repeat the same process in the Startup tab via Task Manager, enabling startup programs in small groups.

Alternative Method: Using Safe Mode

If you find the clean boot process confusing or want a quicker way to troubleshoot, you can also try starting Windows 11 in Safe Mode.

• Safe Mode starts Windows with minimal drivers and services.
• It’s useful for diagnosing driver or software issues.
• To enter Safe Mode, press Shift while clicking Restart on the power menu, then navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. Choose Safe Mode from the options.

FAQs About Clean Boot in Windows 11

Q: Will clean boot delete any of my files?

No, performing a clean boot does not delete any personal files or data. It only disables certain programs from starting automatically.

Q: How do I undo a clean boot?

To return to normal startup, open System Configuration (msconfig), go to the Services tab, uncheck “Hide all Microsoft services,” click “Enable all,” and re-enable your startup programs in Task Manager. Then restart your PC.

Q: Can I perform a clean boot on any version of Windows?

Yes, the clean boot procedure is similar in Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, though interface details may vary slightly.

Q: My PC still has startup problems after a clean boot. What now?

If a clean boot doesn’t fix the issue, the problem might be hardware-related or involve system files. Advanced troubleshooting or professional help may be required.

Q: Is clean boot safe to perform regularly?

Yes, clean boot is safe as it only temporarily disables startup programs. However, it’s generally used for troubleshooting rather than everyday use.

When Nothing Works

If you have followed all the steps and your Windows 11 PC still has startup issues, consider these final options:

• Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow to repair corrupted system files.
• Use Windows Recovery: Access recovery options via Settings > System > Recovery to reset or refresh your PC.
• Check for hardware problems: Faulty RAM or hard drives can cause startup errors. Use diagnostic tools or visit a technician.
• Visit Microsoft Support: For detailed help, check the official Microsoft support site: support.microsoft.com/windows.

Conclusion

Performing a clean boot in Windows 11 is a simple yet powerful way to troubleshoot startup problems. By disabling non-essential programs and services, you can identify what causes your PC to slow down or behave unexpectedly during startup.

Remember to take your time with each step, enable items gradually, and always restart your computer after changes. If needed, use Safe Mode or system recovery tools for further troubleshooting.

With this guide, you’re now equipped to fix many common startup issues and keep your Windows 11 PC running smoothly.