How to Make a 4-Year-Old Computer Boot Windows 10 in 15 Seconds

I tested it on my computer. Let’s take a look at my computer's configuration.

I'm running Windows 10 with a mechanical hard drive.

Here, I want to talk about optimizing the computer for faster boot times. Of course, this varies with computer configuration; my fastest boot time is 11 seconds. The title may be a bit exaggerated, as results vary by computer configuration. Skilled users can skip this, while novices should read on.

Let me show off what software I've installed on my computer. As a computer science student, I have quite a bit of software and many system plugins installed.

Let's take a look at my boot time.

It used to be around 11 to 12 seconds.

After the new semester started, I installed a lot of stuff. The times are shown in the image below.

The boot time fluctuated around 16 to 17 seconds.

Alright, now let's get to the main topic.

To optimize, we need to use software. I use 360 Guardian, but other software with similar functions can also work.

First, we need to manage the startup items.

Disable startup for unnecessary applications, such as Youku and others.

Next, as shown in the image, click on application services, and disable unnecessary applications from starting up as well.

Next, we need to disable some system software.

For system software, if it doesn't need to be activated, it will remind you below: "Not necessary for startup." If you're not familiar with the system software, don't disable random ones; otherwise, the computer may fail to boot, or some hardware may become unresponsive or features may be disabled.

Now, let's move on to other modifications by finding the "Choose what the power button does" function.

Open the Control Panel - System and Security - Power Options.

Click "Choose what the power button does."

Usually, the "Fast Startup" option is turned on by default.

If it’s not enabled, be sure to turn it on. If it’s already active, try the next optimization steps below.

Press the Win key + R to bring up the Run box, type "gpedit.msc," and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.

In the image below, click on "Administrative Templates" under Computer Configuration,

Click sequentially on - System - Shutdown, then click on Shutdown. There will be prompts on the right side.

Click on "Require use of fast startup" as shown in the picture,

Choose "Enabled," and then click OK. Now you can close the window above.

The necessary optimizations have been completed. If you don't have much on your computer, achieving 7 or 8 seconds is also possible.

Don't keep too many files on your desktop. Some people like to keep a lot of files on the desktop for convenience. When the computer boots, it retrieves desktop files, and too many files can increase boot time.

Now for the final, game-changing tip!

After completing the above operations, go back to the startup items and disable 360 Guardian and other security software! It’s absolutely not a dream to boot a few seconds faster!!! You know what I mean!

[Due to the author's limited skills, there may be errors. Please comment and correct.]