How to Know Which Processes to Delete in Autoruns64
When a Windows computer starts acting sluggish or behaving unusually, the culprit often lies in the background processes that launch automatically with the system. One of the most powerful tools to take control of these startup processes is Autoruns64, a utility created by Microsoft’s Sysinternals suite. With so many entries listed in Autoruns64, it can be difficult—especially for non-technical users—to figure out which processes are safe to delete or disable. Knowing what to keep and what to remove can make a considerable difference in system performance and security.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
Autoruns64 provides a detailed list of all programs and services that start automatically with Windows. To know which to delete, start by researching unknown entries, unchecking items instead of deleting them outright, and focusing on non-Microsoft entries that aren’t related to critical drivers or antivirus tools. Be cautious and verify entries on trusted online sources before making changes. Always create a backup or system restore point before modifying Autoruns entries.
Understanding How Autoruns64 Works
Autoruns64 scans dozens of registry locations and displays every executable that is set to run at startup. It categorizes entries into tabs like Logon, Services, Scheduled Tasks, and more. This makes it easier to locate what kind of process you’re looking at.
Each entry includes details like:
- Name: The display name of the process or service
- Publisher: The software vendor
- Image Path: Where on the hard drive the file is located
- Timestamp and Status: When it was added, whether it is currently enabled
The wealth of data can be overwhelming, but learning how to interpret it is essential to optimizing system performance.
General Guidelines for Safe Cleanup
Before making any changes in Autoruns64, always follow these steps:
- Create a System Restore Point: This lets you undo changes if something goes wrong.
- Uncheck Instead of Deleting: Autoruns allows you to simply disable an entry, which is safer than deletion.
- Check for Microsoft Signed Entries: Be wary about disabling processes signed by Microsoft—these are usually core system components.
How to Identify Processes You Can Safely Disable
Learning to spot unnecessary processes is key. Start by focusing on:
1. Non-Microsoft Entries
Microsoft processes are essential for Windows to operate correctly. Autoruns64 highlights these in yellow if the file is missing or in red if there’s a potential issue. Non-Microsoft entries that you don’t recognize are often candidates for removal but should always be researched first.
Common entries that can often be safely disabled include:
- Updaters for games or non-critical software
- Printer status monitors
- Toolbar and browser extensions you don’t use
- Old third-party antivirus programs (after switching AVs)
2. Check Publisher and File Location
Legitimate processes will often have a recognizable publisher name and reside in expected directories such as C:\Program Files or C:\Windows\System32. Malware and unnecessary programs often live in odd folders or have no publisher information. Be suspicious of files in temporary folders or the user’s AppData directory unless you recognize the software.
3. Use Online Databases
If you have doubts about a specific entry, copy its exact name or path and search on reliable websites such as:
- BleepingComputer Startup Database
- File.net
- VirusTotal for uploading suspicious files
These resources can help identify whether a process is essential, harmless, or potentially dangerous.
The Most Common Autoruns Tabs to Review
Out of the many tabs in Autoruns64, a few are especially worth reviewing:
Logon:
This tab shows user-level programs that launch at startup. These are usually safe to tweak and include items like Spotify, Adobe Updater, or Skype.
Scheduled Tasks:
This tab includes entries set to trigger based on time or event. Unnecessary updaters often linger here even after you’ve stopped using the program they relate to.
Services:
These are background processes that load with Windows. You should be careful here, especially with services tied to hardware, network, or antivirus.
Drivers:
Disabling anything in the Drivers tab can make your system stop working. It’s best to leave these alone unless you’re an advanced user.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Mistakes in disabling or deleting the wrong entry can have consequences. Watch for these red flags:
- No Publisher Info: Legitimate programs should have a certificate and publisher listed.
- Entries in Suspicious Locations: Files in AppData\Roaming or Temp can sometimes indicate malware.
- Duplicate or Misspelled Entries: Malware may try to mimic real services with minor spelling errors.
Best Practices for Ongoing Maintenance
To keep your PC running at optimal speed and efficiency:
- Review Autoruns Monthly: Especially after installing new software or updates
- Keep System Backups: So you can recover quickly if something goes wrong
- Stay Informed: Subscribe to tech forums or newsletters that discuss system optimization practices
Conclusion
Autoruns64 is a powerful but intricate tool. Knowing which startup processes to disable requires a mix of common sense, attention to detail, and a bit of online research. Non-Microsoft items, unknown publishers, and oddly located files are usually your first targets, but always uncheck them before committing to deletion. With regular maintenance and caution, you can keep your system lean, fast, and secure.
FAQ
- Is it safe to delete things in Autoruns64?
- Direct deletion is not recommended. Uncheck entries first to disable them and observe how your system behaves before taking further action.
- What should I do if something breaks after disabling a process?
- Reopen Autoruns64, recheck the disabled item, and restart your computer. If the system becomes unbootable, use a restore point or recovery option.
- How can I tell if a process is malware?
- Processes with no publisher, unusual file paths, or odd behavior should be scanned using VirusTotal and verified through trusted tech forums.
- Can I speed up my computer by using Autoruns64?
- Yes, disabling unnecessary startup programs can significantly improve boot times and overall system performance.
- How often should I check Autoruns?
- Check it every couple of months or if you notice slow system performance, especially after installing new software.