Vista How To Remove Unnecessary Components

Every computer and every operating system comes with a variety of components that are designed for the use of every user.  That means that most components are available for the average user, and some components will only be used by select users.  Operating systems are equipped with endless components to ensure that no user gets ‘left out’ and Windows Vista is no exception. Many components on Windows Vista in fact are more frequently used by higher-end users requiring in-depth technical knowledge, and many are used only by the average surfer, gamer, emailer, etc. 

What you want is to ensure that your operating system is not running programs and capabilities that you don’t need. Why? To ensure that your system runs as efficiently as possible and tailored to your specific needs. Fortunately, Vista lets you make those decisions for yourself.

But don’t worry. You aren’t removing these components from your computer permanently, you are simply going to tell Vista that you aren’t going to use them at all, and thus eliminate some bloat from your machine. If you find that you ever need to hack your registry, program Message Queues, or index routing protocols, you can go back in and change your options.  In the meantime, let’s get rid of that bulk for you.

Step 1. Go to your Control Panel and enter your “Programs and Features” section.  Select the link for “Turn Windows Features On Or Off”.

Step 2. Here you will find a screen that is fairly explanatory.  You simply uncheck the items you think you won’t use, and keep the items checked that you know you will use.  When you are finished click on OK.

Useful Tip: You don’t simply want to uncheck anything you don’t recognize. But you definitely want to check the items that you DO recognize and use.  To help, here is a list of common components found in Windows Vista that are not used very often.

• Active X Installer – Click No, most users do not use this.
• Index Service – This service is old, and is not needed in Vista.
• Internet Information Services – if you are hosting websites on your machine, and using your machine as a server, you will need this.
• Microsoft .NET Framework – generally only used by programmers
• MSMQ (Microsfot Message Queue) – also used primarily by programmers
• Remote Differential Compression – you may need this, do not uncheck
• RIP Listener – a routing protocol you will not need
• Windows Powershell – a more advanced tool used by system admins, one you will likely not need
• Anything that Says Telnet – Never use telnet, uncheck this box

 More Windows Vista How To Articles avialable.