How can startup programs be managed on a workstation?

Managing startup programs on a workstation is critical for optimizing boot times and system performance. The effective way to control these programs is through the use of Task Manager or system configuration tools.

Task Manager provides an easy interface to view and manage programs that automatically start when the operating system boots. Users can access the 'Startup' tab to enable or disable these applications, allowing for a quick assessment of what is necessary at startup. Similarly, system configuration tools like MSConfig can provide more advanced options for managing startup applications and services, allowing users to streamline their system's startup process.

While other methods, such as modifying configurations via file explorer or uninstalling software, might impact the overall performance or persistence of applications, they are not specifically designed for startup management. Additionally, relying on antivirus software to disable startup programs is not a standard method and could overlook legitimate applications that are important for the system's functionality. Thus, using Task Manager or system configuration tools is the most direct and effective approach to managing startup programs.