How to open MsConfig in Windows 10 and 11?

MSConfig (Microsoft System Configuration Utility) is a powerful tool built into Windows that allows users to troubleshoot and modify their system’s startup configuration. It can help optimize your computer’s performance by disabling unnecessary startup programs, managing services, and more.

In this article, we will guide you on how to open MSConfig on both Windows 10 and Windows 11, as well as explain what you can do with it.

Why Use MSConfig?

MSConfig is commonly used for the following purposes:

• Troubleshooting: Identify and fix system startup issues by disabling non-essential startup items.
• Manage Startup Programs: Prevent unnecessary programs from launching when Windows starts to speed up your computer.
• System Performance Optimization: Modify boot settings and adjust services that run in the background.
• Safe Mode: Start Windows in Safe Mode with minimal drivers to troubleshoot issues.

How to Open MSConfig in Windows 10

Follow these simple steps to open MSConfig in Windows 10:

Step 1: Press the Windows Key + R

• Windows + R opens the Run dialog box.

Step 2: Type msconfig in the Run Box

• In the Run box, type msconfig (without the quotes).

Step 3: Press Enter or Click OK

• Press Enter on your keyboard or click OK.

Step 4: MSConfig Opens

• The System Configuration window (MSConfig) will now appear, allowing you to adjust the boot settings, startup programs, and more.

How to Open MSConfig in Windows 11

The steps to open MSConfig in Windows 11 are very similar to those in Windows 10. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Open the Run Dialog

• Press Windows Key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.

Step 2: Type msconfig

• Type msconfig into the Run dialog box.

Step 3: Press Enter or Click OK

• Press Enter or click OK to open MSConfig.

Step 4: Access the System Configuration Window

• The System Configuration window will open, and you’ll be able to manage your system settings.

What You Can Do with MSConfig

Once MSConfig is open, you have several tabs and settings at your disposal. Here are some key features of MSConfig:

1. General Tab

The General tab allows you to choose between different startup modes:

• Normal startup: Loads all device drivers and services. Use this option when everything is functioning properly.
• Selective startup: Lets you choose which services and startup items to load. You can use this for troubleshooting purposes.
• Diagnostic startup: Loads only basic services and drivers (similar to Safe Mode).

2. Boot Tab

This tab allows you to manage advanced boot settings:

• Boot options: You can enable Safe Boot, Minimal (basic mode), or Network (Safe Mode with networking) for troubleshooting.
• Timeout: Set the time (in seconds) for selecting the operating system during boot. The default is usually 30 seconds.

3. Services Tab

• This tab lists all the system services running in the background. You can disable unnecessary services to improve startup times or troubleshoot performance issues.
• Hide all Microsoft services: Check this option to avoid disabling essential system services.

4. Startup Tab (Windows 10)

• In Windows 10, the Startup tab shows all programs that are set to run at startup. You can disable any unnecessary programs that may slow down the system.
• Windows 11 Tip: Instead of using MSConfig to manage startup programs, Windows 11 now uses the Task Manager. To access it, go to Task Manager > Startup tab.

5. Tools Tab

• The Tools tab provides quick access to several built-in system utilities, such as:
  • Event Viewer
  • System Information
  • Device Manager
  • Disk Cleanup
  • And more…

How to Modify Startup Items Using MSConfig

Step 1: Open the MSConfig Window

• Follow the steps above to open MSConfig.

Step 2: Navigate to the Startup Tab (Windows 10)

• In Windows 10, go to the Startup tab.
• You will see a list of all programs that start when your computer boots up.

Step 3: Disable Unnecessary Programs

• Uncheck the box next to any program you don’t need to start automatically when Windows boots. This can help speed up your system and improve performance.

Step 4: Apply Changes and Restart

• After disabling startup items, click Apply, then click OK.
• You’ll be prompted to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

For Windows 11 Users:

• In Windows 11, manage your startup items through Task Manager:
  1. Right-click on the Start Menu and select Task Manager.
  2. Go to the Startup tab and disable any unnecessary programs.

How to Boot into Safe Mode Using MSConfig

If you’re facing issues with your computer, starting it in Safe Mode can help troubleshoot problems by only loading essential drivers and services. Here’s how to do it using MSConfig:

Step 1: Open MSConfig

• Open MSConfig as explained earlier.

Step 2: Go to the Boot Tab

• Click the Boot tab in the System Configuration window.

Step 3: Enable Safe Boot

• Under the Boot options section, check the box next to Safe boot.
• Choose from the following options:
  • Minimal: Safe Mode with basic functionality.
  • Network: Safe Mode with networking capabilities (useful if you need internet access).
  • Active Directory repair: For advanced troubleshooting (for domain-joined machines).

Step 4: Apply and Restart

• Click Apply, then OK.
• You’ll be prompted to restart your computer in Safe Mode.

To exit Safe Mode later, follow the same steps and uncheck the Safe boot box.

Troubleshooting MSConfig

MSConfig Won’t Open

• Solution: If MSConfig does not open, it could be due to corrupt system files or permissions. Run a System File Checker (sfc/scannow) to fix any corrupted files, or try using Windows PowerShell to execute msconfig with administrator privileges.

Changes Don’t Take Effect

• Solution: If your changes in MSConfig aren’t taking effect after restarting, double-check the options you’ve selected. Also, ensure you’re clicking Apply before selecting OK.

Conclusion

The MSConfig tool in both Windows 10 and Windows 11 provides powerful functionality for managing your system configuration, startup processes, and troubleshooting various issues. Whether you want to disable startup programs, manage services, or start your PC in Safe Mode, MSConfig makes it easy to adjust your system’s behavior to fit your needs.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can open and use MSConfig to fine-tune your computer and improve both performance and troubleshooting capabilities.