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Using Msconfig in Windows XP to Troubleshoot

Some programs may not automatically start after Msconfig has been run. However, most programs can be opened using a manual method. The issue you are experiencing may be the result of a program that runs during startup. To determine which program is causing the issue, follow these steps:

  1. From the Start menu, click Run. In the Run dialog box, type: Msconfig, and then click OK.

  2. Click the Startup tab, and then click to clear each check box on the list.

  3. After all items on the Startup tab have been unchecked, click the Services tab, and then check Hide All Microsoft Services. The list of services becomes smaller. Click Disable All.

  4. Click OK, and then restart your computer when you are prompted.

Test for the issue.

Note: If the issue is intermittent you may need to test the computer, for that specific issue, until you feel comfortable that the issue would have reappeared.

If the issue is resolved, follow these steps:

  1. From the Start menu, click Run. In the Run dialog box in the Open text box, type: Msconfig, and then click OK.

  2. On the Startup tab, click to select the first check box in the list.

  3. Click OK, and then restart your computer when you are prompted.

  4. Determine whether the issue is resolved.

  5. After you are confident that the issue has been resolved, repeat step 1 through step 3, but click to select the next check box in the list.

  6. If the issue is still resolved after checking all items on the Startup tab, click the Services tab and then check Hide All Microsoft Services. Click to select the first check box in the list, and then click OK. Restart the computer when prompted.

  7. Determine whether the issue is resolved.

  8. After you are confident that the issue has been resolved, repeat steps 6 and 7, but click to select the next check box in the list.
When the issue returns, the last check box that was cleared loads a program that is preventing Windows from working properly. After the item is discovered, leave it cleared, and then verify that all other startup items and services are checked. If the computer continues to function properly, reconnect any external devices that may have been disconnected in previous troubleshooting steps. If the computer still continues to function properly, troubleshoot the startup item or service that is causing the issue. A common troubleshooting step is to remove and reinstall the associated program.

Note: If the program that is causing the issue is not from Gateway refer to the vendor of the product for assistance.