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A Windows XP slow start up can be annoying and destructive to your computer's performance. That's because crucial processes and applications can all be affected by a Windows XP slow startup. Fortunately, there are a bevy of methods to speed up the booting process of Windows XP.

Run the Disk Defragmenter

Since the files on your computer's hard drive inevitably become fragmented, your system has to spend more time matching files. This, in turn, slows down your machine, especially at startup.

The Disk Defragmenter works to defragment the hard drive and thereby speed up your computer. You'll immediately notice the benefits of running the Disk Defragmenter. Here's how to run the Disk Defragmenter in Windows XP:

1. Click My Computer
2. Select which local disk you wish to defragment. Right click that disk.
3. Select Properties.
4. Click the Tools tab.
5. Click Defragment Now.
6. Click Defragment.

You should defragment the majority of your hard disks. A defragmented disk will operate much quicker.

Run a Boot Defragment

You can also specifically defragment files and processes that are associated with startup. This wonderful process can really speed up your computer. If your computer is booting up slow, you definitely need to run the boot defragment. Follow these steps:
1. Open the Registry Editor.
2. Select
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Dfrg\BootOptimizeFunction
3. From the list at the right, select Enable.
4. Right click and then select Modify.
5. Change the value to Y in order to enable, and N in order to disable.
6. Restart the computer.

Microsoft first included the Boot Defragment in Windows XP, and it is one of the most useful features for fixing a slow startup.

Destroy Viruses, Spyware, and Malware

Malware, spyware, and viruses can all contribute to a slow boot in Windows XP. These malicious programs often suck precious resources from your computer, making it extremely difficult to even start your computer.

Obtain a good anti-virus and anti-malware program and run it. If you can pinpoint and remove these programs, your computer will start much faster.

Registry cleaners will absolutely speed up your computer's boot time. This is because registry cleaners can thoroughly address and repair problems related to a slow startup.

In fact, registry cleaners can actually restore your computer's speed so that it runs like new. Most registry cleaners are available for download online. Find a good registry cleaner and run it, so your computer will run like a cheetah, not a turtle.

Read about speeding up a Windows XP slow startup and fixing errors.