AppInit: AppInit started as a convenient way to load multiple system DLLs at once.

The only reason to have any entries on this list is for a debugging tool. Basically, it can be used to modify which program is actually launched by running an executable. Image Hijacks are registry keys that allow a process to “hijack” another executable, running itself instead.

Image Hijacks: The name might sound a bit sinister, but it’s well earned.

You’ll probably find this tab empty, as even viruses cannot do much before the operating system has loaded. Boot Execute includes processes to be run while the system is still being booted, which includes things like a hard drive scan.

Boot Execute: This tab can be safely ignored.

And while you can disable a few of these programs from the Task Manager’s Startup tab, most startup processes aren’t even displayed there. These startup programs increase the boot time apart from consuming memory and CPU cycles while your computer is running. And very rarely are these apps actually needed – after all, you can always run any application when you actually require it. Many apps insert themselves into the list of startup processes, bloating up the otherwise limited lineup.

The problem lies with third-party startup applications. For many essential services that’s a good thing, as crucial processes can get up and running without you having to manually start them up every time. Many applications and services are designed to autostart every time you boot up.

What Are Startup Programs and Why Are They a Problem?

The following is a short guide on how to use Autoruns to disable startup programs on your computer. Autoruns is a Windows utility that allows you to view and configure all automatically running processes from an easy-to-use GUI interface. Thankfully, there is a way to easily remove these startup programs from your PC.

Autorun app windows 10