How to Perform a Clean Boot in Windows

A clean boot starts Windows with essential Microsoft services while disabling third-party services and startup applications.

This is useful for determining whether another program is causing:

  • Crashes

  • Freezing

  • Application conflicts

  • Game problems

  • Performance issues

  • EXM errors

A clean boot is different from Safe Mode.

Step 1: Open System Configuration

  1. Press Windows + R.

  2. Enter:

msconfig

  1. Press Enter.

Step 2: Hide Microsoft Services

Open the Services tab.

Important: Enable Hide all Microsoft services before continuing.

Do not skip this step.

Step 3: Disable Third-Party Services

After Microsoft services are hidden:

  1. Select Disable all.

  2. Select Apply.

Step 4: Disable Startup Applications

  1. Open the Startup tab.

  2. Select Open Task Manager.

  3. Disable enabled startup applications.

We recommend taking a screenshot beforehand so you remember which applications were originally enabled.

Step 5: Restart Windows

Restart the PC.

Windows will now start in a clean boot environment.

Test the problem again.

If the Problem Is Gone

If the issue disappears during a clean boot, a third-party service or startup application is likely causing the problem.

Re-enable programs and services gradually until the problem returns.

This can help identify the conflicting software.

Return Windows to Normal

After troubleshooting:

  1. Open msconfig again.

  2. Return your services to their normal configuration.

  3. Re-enable the startup applications you want.

  4. Restart your PC.

A clean boot should normally be used for troubleshooting, not as a permanent configuration.