When you start Windows with a normal startup, several programs start automatically and run in the background. These programs may include third-party antivirus programs and system utility programs. When you try to run games, these programs may interfere with the game. If this occurs, you can use a clean boot to start your computer before you play a game to prevent these programs from starting automatically.

The solution is to Restart your computer using a Clean Boot Procedure

To restart your computer by using a clean boot procedure, follow these steps when you are using Windows XP.

Note You may experience a temporary loss of some services functionality when you follow these steps. Restoring the settings restores the functionality, but may result in the return of the original error message or behavior.

1. Click Start, and then click Run.

2. In the Open box, type msconfig, and then click OK.

3. On the General tab, click Selective Startup.

4. Under Selective Startup, click to clear the following check boxes:

  • Process SYSTEM.INI File
  • Process WIN.INI File
  • Load Startup Items

5. On the Services tab, click to select the Hide All Microsoft Services check box, and then click Disable All.

6. Click OK, and then click Restart.

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