msconfig.exe

msconfig stands for Microsoft System Configuration Utility and what it do is to troubleshoot the Microsoft Windows startup process. In other word, you can configure anything that happens when Windows boot, and this includes disable or enable programs or processes, devices drivers and so on. This tool may be useful if you want your machine to boot faster without using the expensive SSD on the market.

There are several way to open it. First you can just search 'msconfig' on your start menu as shown below:

 
Second, you can use 'Run' and type the same thing, 'msconfig'

or you can use command prompt, if you want that 'hacking' style. Just type 'msconfig' on the command line interface:

So, now that you've open it, what does it look like?

You have 5 different tab, each labeled with General, Boot, Service, Startup, and Tools. If you have multiple OS installed on your system, you can go to the Boot tab and you can choose which OS to be the default OS, meaning that the machine will automatically boot into that OS if you don't select any OS to boot into after the selected timeout duration. You will also have advanced option, where you can change the boot parameter to your liking.

The next two tabs that you will see are Services and Startup tabs. It generally lists all the services and programs that start when you boot your Windows. It may be a bit tricky if you're first time user, but don't worry, you can always check on the box 'Hide all Microsoft services' and all you have to do is to disable any unwanted/unassociated services or program so that your computer will boot a bit faster. 

The last tab, Tools, lists all Microsoft's essential tools that can help you configure your computer. It can be extremely handy if you don't know where to find the necessary Windows' tools when you need it.

A few point to be remembered:

• This tools can also be used in Windows safe mode. Therefore, you can always make adjustment even after you were attacked by virus. Just remember to boot into the safe mode and make the necessary changes (unchecked everything that's not associated to Windows in the 'Services' and 'Startup' items). You can also delete the virus (if you found one) by using the command prompt.
• You can also remove old installation from the Boot menu. First, you have to make sure that your newer version of OS is selected to be the default OS. Next, you can remove/disable your older version of operating system by using 'bcdedit' command line in command prompt:

Have fun trying!!!