Turning off Fast Startup in Windows 10 is a simple task that can help solve various boot-related issues on your computer. You’ll be diving into your power settings and making a quick adjustment. Let’s get started with the detailed steps below.
How to Turn Off Fast Startup in Windows 10
In this guide, you’ll learn how to disable the Fast Startup feature on a Windows 10 computer. Fast Startup can sometimes cause issues with your system, so following these steps will help you turn it off and potentially resolve any related problems.
Step 1: Open the Control Panel
First, open the Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
Opening the Control Panel is straightforward. Just click on the Start menu and type “Control Panel” in the search bar. Once it appears, click on it.
Step 2: Navigate to Power Options
Go to the Power Options in the Control Panel.
In the Control Panel, look for an option that says "Power Options" and click on it. It might be under "Hardware and Sound" if you have category view enabled.
Step 3: Choose What the Power Buttons Do
Select the option to change what the power buttons do.
On the left side of the Power Options window, you’ll see a link that says "Choose what the power buttons do." Click on that link to proceed.
Step 4: Change Settings That Are Currently Unavailable
Click the link to change settings that are currently unavailable.
You’ll notice some options are greyed out. Click on the link at the top that says "Change settings that are currently unavailable." This will give you access to modify the settings.
Step 5: Uncheck Turn on Fast Startup
Uncheck the box that says "Turn on fast startup (recommended)."
Scroll down to the "Shutdown settings" section and look for the checkbox next to "Turn on fast startup." Uncheck this box to disable Fast Startup.
Step 6: Save Changes
Finally, click the "Save changes" button at the bottom of the window.
After unchecking the box, don’t forget to click on "Save changes." This will ensure your new settings are applied.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your computer will no longer use Fast Startup. This means it might take a bit longer to boot up, but it can help avoid issues caused by the Fast Startup feature.
Tips for Turning Off Fast Startup in Windows 10
- If you have issues finding the Control Panel, you can also access Power Options directly through the Windows settings menu.
- Disabling Fast Startup can help resolve problems with system updates and driver installations.
- Make sure to restart your computer after making these changes to apply the new settings.
- If you notice any adverse effects, you can always turn Fast Startup back on by following the same steps.
- Check if your system has the latest updates installed, as some updates might affect how fast startup functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fast Startup in Windows 10?
Fast Startup is a feature in Windows 10 that helps your computer start up faster after being shut down by using a hybrid shutdown process.
Why would I want to disable Fast Startup?
You might want to disable it if you’re experiencing boot-related issues, such as trouble accessing BIOS settings or problems with dual-booting other operating systems.
Will disabling Fast Startup affect my computer’s performance?
Disabling Fast Startup might make your computer take a bit longer to boot up, but it won’t affect the overall performance once your system is running.
Can I enable Fast Startup again after disabling it?
Yes, you can re-enable Fast Startup anytime by following the same steps and checking the "Turn on fast startup" box again.
Is Fast Startup the same as Hibernation?
No, Fast Startup is different from Hibernation, although it uses some similar techniques. Hibernation saves your session to the hard drive, while Fast Startup prepares the system for a fast boot.
Summary
- Open the Control Panel.
- Navigate to Power Options.
- Choose what the power buttons do.
- Change settings that are currently unavailable.
- Uncheck "Turn on fast startup."
- Save changes.
Conclusion
Turning off Fast Startup in Windows 10 is an important troubleshooting step if you’re facing issues with your computer’s boot process. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily disable this feature. While Fast Startup can be beneficial for reducing boot times, it’s not without its problems. If you find that your system is more stable without it, you’ve made the right call.
For further reading, you might look into other power settings that can help optimize your computer’s performance. Remember, the key to a smooth-running system is regular maintenance and staying informed about your settings. If you have any more questions or need additional help, don’t hesitate to dig deeper into Microsoft’s support resources.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.