CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202)Software TroubleshootingEasy
A technician is troubleshooting a Windows 11 desktop that takes over five minutes to reach the login screen after a normal shutdown. Task Manager shows several third-party applications with a 'High' startup impact rating. Which action should the technician take FIRST to improve boot performance?
- AIncrease the page file size
- BDisable the high-impact startup applications in Task Manager
- CReplace the hard drive with a solid-state drive
- DReinstall the operating system
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Disable the high-impact startup applications in Task Manager
Disabling unnecessary startup applications is a quick, no-cost first step that directly reduces the number of programs loading at boot. Reinstalling the OS, replacing hardware, or adjusting virtual memory are more invasive and should only be considered if simpler fixes fail.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Page file size rarely causes multi-minute boot delays.
- C. A hardware upgrade may help but is costly and not the first action.
- D. Far too drastic for a first troubleshooting step.
Startup Impact Management
Using Task Manager's Startup tab to identify and disable applications that load automatically and slow down boot time.
- High-impact startup apps delay reaching the desktop
- Task Manager > Startup tab shows impact ratings
- Disabling unneeded startup items is low-risk and free
Memory trick: Startup hogs sleeping in bed — kick them out first before buying new furniture