Fast Startup in Windows To Disable or Not to Disable? (2024)

Windows Fast Startup (or Hybrid Boot) was designed to shorten startup times after you shut down your computer. When enabled, it doesn't fully shut down your PC. Instead, it saves critical system information to a hibernation file, much like putting your computer into a deep sleep. The next time you boot up, Windows loads this information for a seemingly faster startup.

Why You Might Want to Disable Fast Startup

Here are some scenarios where disabling Fast Startup can make a difference:

• Troubleshooting: Disabling Fast Startup provides a clean system startup, which can be helpful when installing new hardware, software updates, or diagnosing various problems.
• Dual-Booting: If you have multiple operating systems installed (ex: Windows and Linux), Fast Startup can sometimes prevent smooth transitions between them or hinder access to shared file systems.
• Peripheral Issues: On rare occasions, some older peripherals may have compatibility problems with Fast Startup, causing them to not function properly when your computer boots.

SSDs and the Diminishing Benefits of Fast Startup

The introduction of solid-state drives (SSDs) has drastically changed the equation. With super-fast access speeds, Windows installed on an SSD boots up incredibly quickly from a full shutdown. This might mean the slight boost from Fast Startup is less noticeable in everyday use.

To Disable or Not to Disable?

If you have an SSD and haven't encountered any of the issues mentioned above, you can safely leave Fast Startup enabled. However, if you face compatibility problems, need extra-clean system startups for troubleshooting, or dual-boot, disabling Fast Startup is a potential solution.

How to Disable Fast Startup

1. Open the Control Panel: Search for "Control Panel" and launch it.
2. Power Options: Go to "Hardware and Sound" and click on "Power Options".
3. Access Power Button Settings: Click on "Choose what the power buttons do".
4. Unlock Hidden Settings: Click "Change settings that are currently unavailable".
5. Disable Fast Startup: Find "Shutdown settings" and uncheck "Turn on fast startup (recommended)".
6. Save Your Changes: Hit "Save changes".

The Takeaway

Fast Startup was a clever solution in the era of slower hard drives. But with SSDs becoming the norm, its advantages are less pronounced for most users. Knowing when to disable it remains a useful trick for tech savvy folks and those who want to ensure complete shutdowns.