This document discusses optimizing disk performance on a Windows XP system. It recommends checking disks for errors, regularly defragmenting files to improve read/write times, and using specialized tools to defragment system files that the standard Windows defragmenter cannot access, such as the event logs, registry, and pagefile. Defragmenting system files after a reboot can improve overall system performance.

1. Windows for the Jedi:Windows for the Jedi:
Optimizing Windows XPOptimizing Windows XP
Tuning the performance of yourTuning the performance of your
Windows XP Professional workstationWindows XP Professional workstation

2. ForwardForward
 ““I don’t feel in control of Windows”I don’t feel in control of Windows”
 Reminisce about the days of…Reminisce about the days of…
 AUTOEXEC.BAT, CONFIG.SYS, HIMEM.SYS,AUTOEXEC.BAT, CONFIG.SYS, HIMEM.SYS,
EMM386.SYS, SMARTDRV.EXEEMM386.SYS, SMARTDRV.EXE
 WIN.INI, SYSTEM.INIWIN.INI, SYSTEM.INI
 QEMM, ODI drivers, NDIS driversQEMM, ODI drivers, NDIS drivers
 Windows for Workgroups 3.11 provided geeky levelsWindows for Workgroups 3.11 provided geeky levels
of tweakingof tweaking
 DOS, TCP/IP, INI filesDOS, TCP/IP, INI files
 It’s all there. The tools just changed.It’s all there. The tools just changed.
 Regedit.exe, Services.msc, Resource Kit toolsRegedit.exe, Services.msc, Resource Kit tools
 33rdrd
party toolsparty tools

3. Why did it get slow?Why did it get slow?
 Non-optimal or default configurationNon-optimal or default configuration
 Network designed for generic scenariosNetwork designed for generic scenarios
 Video & disk drivers installed are usually genericVideo & disk drivers installed are usually generic
 Compatibility forever!Compatibility forever!
 Higher average number of processesHigher average number of processes
 Growth in average process count due to installationsGrowth in average process count due to installations
 SVCHOST.EXE processes growthSVCHOST.EXE processes growth
 Conflicting execution threadsConflicting execution threads
 Serial requests kill performanceSerial requests kill performance
 Escalating bottlenecksEscalating bottlenecks
 Max disk efficiency is 50% used or lessMax disk efficiency is 50% used or less
 Every network I/O filter slows performanceEvery network I/O filter slows performance
 Memory usage at 80% always swaps systemMemory usage at 80% always swaps system
 Immediate performance > Operational efficiencyImmediate performance > Operational efficiency
 MemoryMemory
 DiskDisk

4. What can we do about it?What can we do about it?
 OS OptimizationOS Optimization
 Reducing boot timeReducing boot time
 Reducing shutdown timeReducing shutdown time
 System resource optimizationSystem resource optimization
 Clearing Temp & History FilesClearing Temp & History Files
 Resource Performance TuningResource Performance Tuning
 DiskDisk
 NetworkNetwork
 MemoryMemory
 Application Performance TuningApplication Performance Tuning
 Optimizing Internet ExplorerOptimizing Internet Explorer
 Optimizing application executionOptimizing application execution
 Cool Windows XP add-ons & toolsCool Windows XP add-ons & tools

5. From the “duh” fileFrom the “duh” file
Things that should be looked into before anything elseThings that should be looked into before anything else
 Current driversCurrent drivers
 Updated BIOS firmwareUpdated BIOS firmware
 Updated adapter driversUpdated adapter drivers
 Disk considerationsDisk considerations
 Always use NTFS; Never use FAT32.Always use NTFS; Never use FAT32.
 Indexing service: Just say no.Indexing service: Just say no.
 Display performance (Optional)Display performance (Optional)
 Don’t use a desktop pictureDon’t use a desktop picture
 Minimize the number of icons on your desktopMinimize the number of icons on your desktop
 Disable themesDisable themes

6. OSOS
OptimizationOptimization
Reducing Boot Time throughReducing Boot Time through
Drivers & System ResourcesDrivers & System Resources

7. Reduce boot timeReduce boot time
 Understand Windows bootUnderstand Windows boot
 What software is loadingWhat software is loading
 How long is each takingHow long is each taking
 Optimize what Windows loads at bootOptimize what Windows loads at boot
1.1. Remove unnecessary applications/utilitiesRemove unnecessary applications/utilities
2.2. Disable unused hardware resourcesDisable unused hardware resources
3.3. Uninstall unused FontsUninstall unused Fonts
4.4. Clean out the Prefetch cacheClean out the Prefetch cache
5.5. Parallelize the boot sequenceParallelize the boot sequence

8. RemovingRemoving
apps/resourcesapps/resources Apps may load bootApps may load boot
time stubstime stubs
 QuicktimeQuicktime
 RealReal
 AcrobatAcrobat
 Every hardwareEvery hardware
resource needs aresource needs a
driver & load timedriver & load time
 Serial or ParallelSerial or Parallel
port? Onboard video?port? Onboard video?
Onboard IDE/SCSI?Onboard IDE/SCSI?
USB? Firewire?USB? Firewire?
 Disable unneededDisable unneeded
ports via BIOSports via BIOS

9. Uninstall unneeded fontsUninstall unneeded fonts
 Fonts increase boot timeFonts increase boot time
 Loaded at bootLoaded at boot
 Most people don’t knowMost people don’t know
which fonts are usefulwhich fonts are useful
 Tool:Tool: FontXplorerFontXplorer
 Visually displays fontsVisually displays fonts
 Determine which to keepDetermine which to keep
or dumpor dump
 http://moonsoftware.comhttp://moonsoftware.com

10. Optimize boot sequenceOptimize boot sequence
 TOOL:TOOL: Bootvis.exeBootvis.exe
 Logs every driver/service loaded at bootLogs every driver/service loaded at boot
 Clocks each for load timeClocks each for load time
 Provides “boot information intelligence”Provides “boot information intelligence”
 Enables analysis of software loadedEnables analysis of software loaded
 Graphs time-to-load for each driverGraphs time-to-load for each driver
 Auto-optimizes boot sequence for fastestAuto-optimizes boot sequence for fastest
performance; enables drivers to load in parallelperformance; enables drivers to load in parallel
(Note: Windows XP does this optimization(Note: Windows XP does this optimization
operation 24 hours after installationoperation 24 hours after installation
automatically)automatically)
 http://download.microsoft.com/download/whistler/BTV/1.0http://download.microsoft.com/download/whistler/BTV/1.0

11. Parallelize bootParallelize boot
sequencesequence
 TOOL:TOOL: Bootvis.exeBootvis.exe
 Logs every driver/service loaded at bootLogs every driver/service loaded at boot
 Times each loadTimes each load
 Analyzes software loaded in logAnalyzes software loaded in log
 Provides “boot intelligence”Provides “boot intelligence”
 Enables viewing of software loadedEnables viewing of software loaded
 Graphs time-to-load for each driverGraphs time-to-load for each driver
 Auto-optimizes boot sequence forAuto-optimizes boot sequence for
fastest performance (Some drivers loadfastest performance (Some drivers load
in parallel)in parallel)

12. Tune the XP PrefetcherTune the XP Prefetcher
 Prefetcher can help orPrefetcher can help or
hurt performancehurt performance
 Proactively loads appsProactively loads apps
during boot to improveduring boot to improve
load performanceload performance
 Load apps at boot timeLoad apps at boot time
 Some apps have aSome apps have a
'/prefetch:1' switch.'/prefetch:1' switch.
 Right click the shortcutRight click the shortcut
and hit 'properties.‘and hit 'properties.‘
 In the 'target' box, putIn the 'target' box, put
'/prefetch:1' at the end'/prefetch:1' at the end
of the line. Press 'ok.'of the line. Press 'ok.'
 Tool:Tool: Prefetch CleanerPrefetch Cleaner
 Disable PrefetchDisable Prefetch
 Prefetch System onlyPrefetch System only
 Prefetch Apps onlyPrefetch Apps only

13. OSOS
OptimizationOptimization
Reducing Boot Time throughReducing Boot Time through
the Registrythe Registry

14. Clean the RegistryClean the Registry
 Registry =Registry =
DatabaseDatabase
 Useless data clogsUseless data clogs
the registrythe registry
 Requires moreRequires more
memory to loadmemory to load
 Increases boot timeIncreases boot time
 Slower applicationSlower application
loadsloads
 Tool: RegistryTool: Registry
Scrubber -Scrubber -
RegScrubXP.exeRegScrubXP.exe
 Remove left over,Remove left over,
unreferencedunreferenced
values/keysvalues/keys
 http://www.majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=2048http://www.majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=2048

15. Compress the RegistryCompress the Registry
 Expanded registryExpanded registry
 Requires more time to referenceRequires more time to reference
 More space on diskMore space on disk
 More time at boot timeMore time at boot time
 Tool: Registry Optimizer -Tool: Registry Optimizer - NTRegOpt.exeNTRegOpt.exe
 Compresses the registry file – eliminates file spaceCompresses the registry file – eliminates file space
gapsgaps
 http://home.t-online.de/home/lars.hederer/http://home.t-online.de/home/lars.hederer/

16. OSOS
OptimizationOptimization
Reducing Boot Time throughReducing Boot Time through
Services & StartupServices & Startup

17. Disable UnnecessaryDisable Unnecessary
ServicesServices
 Not all system services are necessaryNot all system services are necessary
 Use memoryUse memory
 Increase boot timeIncrease boot time
 Slows the CPU downSlows the CPU down
 Tool: Starter -Tool: Starter - Start.exeStart.exe
 Know what programs run at “start”Know what programs run at “start”
(Via the RUN registry key, Startup folder, etc.)(Via the RUN registry key, Startup folder, etc.)
 Disable jobs that are unnecessaryDisable jobs that are unnecessary
 http://codestuff.mirrorz.comhttp://codestuff.mirrorz.com
 Tool: Services Console -Tool: Services Console - Services.mscServices.msc
 Disable any of the 75+ services you don’t useDisable any of the 75+ services you don’t use
 ReviewReview http://www.blackviper.comhttp://www.blackviper.com for informationfor information
about what each services does and why you do or doabout what each services does and why you do or do
not need it.not need it.

18. Disable UnnecessaryDisable Unnecessary
ServicesServices

19. SummarySummary
 Reducing boot timeReducing boot time
 Drivers, System ResourcesDrivers, System Resources
 BootvisBootvis
 Font ExplorerFont Explorer
 Prefetch CleanerPrefetch Cleaner
 RegistryRegistry
 Registry OptimizerRegistry Optimizer
 RegScrubXPRegScrubXP
 ServicesServices
 Start CleanupStart Cleanup
 Services ConsoleServices Console

20. OSOS
OptimizationOptimization
Reducing Shutdown TimeReducing Shutdown Time

21. Reduce Shutdown TimeReduce Shutdown Time
 Shutdown times take longerShutdown times take longer
 Some apps or their dependencies don’t shutdownSome apps or their dependencies don’t shutdown
well; leave handles open to other resourceswell; leave handles open to other resources
 Some profiles are clutteredSome profiles are cluttered
 Tool: User Profile Hive Cleanup Service –Tool: User Profile Hive Cleanup Service –
UPHSetup.exeUPHSetup.exe
 Closes handles left open by other apps that preventCloses handles left open by other apps that prevent
logoutlogout
 Logs all applications run & handles openedLogs all applications run & handles opened
 Particularly good for roaming profilesParticularly good for roaming profiles
 http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?Familyhttp://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?Family

22. Reduce Shutdown timesReduce Shutdown times
(through the Registry)(through the Registry)
 Applications are given time to shut downApplications are given time to shut down
 Current user - “Time to wait until killing apps”Current user - “Time to wait until killing apps”
 'HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl PanelDesktop‘'HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl PanelDesktop‘
 Highlight the 'WaitToKillAppTimeout' value.Highlight the 'WaitToKillAppTimeout' value.
 Set it to '1000' (the default should be 20000).Set it to '1000' (the default should be 20000).
 Highlight the 'HungAppTimeout' value.Highlight the 'HungAppTimeout' value.
 Set it to '1000' also.Set it to '1000' also.
 All users - “Time to wait until killing apps”All users - “Time to wait until killing apps”
 'HKEY_USERS.DEFAULTControl PanelDesktop‘'HKEY_USERS.DEFAULTControl PanelDesktop‘
 Highlight the 'WaitToKillAppTimeout' value.Highlight the 'WaitToKillAppTimeout' value.
 Set it to '1000' (the default should be 20000).Set it to '1000' (the default should be 20000).
 System - “Time to wait until killing services”System - “Time to wait until killing services”
 'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlSet'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESystemCurrentControlSet
Control'Control'
 Highlight the value 'WaitToKillServiceTimeout'Highlight the value 'WaitToKillServiceTimeout'
 Change this value to '1000.'Change this value to '1000.'

23. SummarySummary
 Reducing shutdown timeReducing shutdown time
 User Profile Hive CleanupUser Profile Hive Cleanup
 Allocated shutdown timeout valuesAllocated shutdown timeout values
 UserUser
 All usersAll users
 SystemSystem

24. ResourceResource
PerformancePerformance
TuningTuning
Disk PerformanceDisk Performance

25. Error check your hardError check your hard
drivesdrives Disk Errors = SLOW performanceDisk Errors = SLOW performance
 Simple jarring of desktop chassisSimple jarring of desktop chassis
 Defragmenting will not helpDefragmenting will not help
 Tool: Disk Error CheckingTool: Disk Error Checking
 Open 'myOpen 'my computercomputer.'.'
 Right click the hard disk you wishRight click the hard disk you wish
to check and select 'properties.'to check and select 'properties.'
 Choose the 'tools' tabChoose the 'tools' tab
 Under 'error checking'Under 'error checking'
select the 'check now…' button.select the 'check now…' button.
 Check both options.Check both options.
 Disk will be checked for errors upon rebootDisk will be checked for errors upon reboot
 May take hours depending on disk sizeMay take hours depending on disk size

26. Disk DefragmentationDisk Defragmentation
 #1 Biggest Bottleneck in Performance#1 Biggest Bottleneck in Performance
 Registry accessRegistry access
 Page file swappingPage file swapping
 System filesSystem files
 Event log I/OEvent log I/O
 Applications/dataApplications/data
 Outlook 2003 .OST/.PST filesOutlook 2003 .OST/.PST files
 Project .MPP filsProject .MPP fils
 What does defragmentation do?What does defragmentation do?
 Organizes files for max read/write timeOrganizes files for max read/write time
 DEFRAG.EXE does an “okay” job on normal filesDEFRAG.EXE does an “okay” job on normal files
 Why do we need this with NTFS?Why do we need this with NTFS?
 Using more than 50% of disk?Using more than 50% of disk?
 Locked system filesLocked system files
 Most commonly usedMost commonly used
 Most commonly fragmentedMost commonly fragmented

27. Tools for System FileTools for System File
DefragDefrag DEFRAG.EXE is incompleteDEFRAG.EXE is incomplete
 Locked system filesLocked system files
 WXPDefrag misses:WXPDefrag misses:
 Event LogsEvent Logs
 SAMSAM
 System ExecutablesSystem Executables
 RegistryRegistry
 PagefilePagefile
 Tool:Tool: Pagedfrg.exePagedfrg.exe
 FREE - Defrags system files after rebootFREE - Defrags system files after reboot
 To use in tandem with built-in DEFRAG.EXETo use in tandem with built-in DEFRAG.EXE
 Not remotable/schedulable or very fast, noNot remotable/schedulable or very fast, no
supportsupport
 http://www.sysinternals.com/ntw2k/freeware/pagedefrag.http://www.sysinternals.com/ntw2k/freeware/pagedefrag.

28. Tools for System FileTools for System File
DefragDefrag Upgrade DEFRAG.EXEUpgrade DEFRAG.EXE
 Tool:Tool: Diskeeper 9.0Diskeeper 9.0
Executive SoftwareExecutive Software
 ““Enterprise” version ofEnterprise” version of
Pagedfrg.exePagedfrg.exe
 http://www.execsoft.comhttp://www.execsoft.com
(Acct Rep: Rachel Jackson(Acct Rep: Rachel Jackson
rjackson@execsoft.comrjackson@execsoft.com ))
 Enterprise DefragmentationEnterprise Defragmentation
 4x-8x faster than DEFRAG.EXE4x-8x faster than DEFRAG.EXE
 Remotely manageableRemotely manageable
 Smart Schedule detection or ‘Screen saver’Smart Schedule detection or ‘Screen saver’
 Laptop battery/power management-awareLaptop battery/power management-aware
 Adjustable system priorityAdjustable system priority
 Safe & Enterprise SupportedSafe & Enterprise Supported

29. Disable NTFS Last AccessDisable NTFS Last Access
UpdateUpdate
 Stop the 'last access update' stampStop the 'last access update' stamp
 Directory FAT entries written to on every accessDirectory FAT entries written to on every access
 Writes “Last access” time stamp to every folderWrites “Last access” time stamp to every folder
 Significant impact on hierarchical folder structuresSignificant impact on hierarchical folder structures
 NTFS update can be disabled through theNTFS update can be disabled through the
registry:registry:
 Open REGEDITOpen REGEDIT
 Navigate to:Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESSystemCurrentControlSetHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESSystemCurrentControlSet
ControlFileSystemControlFileSystem
 Create new DWORD value calledCreate new DWORD value called
'NtfsDisableLastAccessUpdate''NtfsDisableLastAccessUpdate'
 Set the value to '1'Set the value to '1'

30. Enable write cachingEnable write caching
 Write caching improves write latencyWrite caching improves write latency
 May be turned on alreadyMay be turned on already
 Disk response on writes can be 2x-4x fasterDisk response on writes can be 2x-4x faster
 Warning: Not for USB drives, or hot-swappable mediaWarning: Not for USB drives, or hot-swappable media
 May delay disk write before removal causing diskMay delay disk write before removal causing disk
corruptioncorruption
 To enable write caching:To enable write caching:
 Right click on myRight click on my computercomputer ..
 Select 'properties.'Select 'properties.'
 Select the hardware tab, thenSelect the hardware tab, then
‘Device Manager.'‘Device Manager.'
 From Device Manager:From Device Manager:
 Expand 'disk drives'Expand 'disk drives'
 Highlight yourHighlight your hard diskhard disk
 Select 'properties'Select 'properties'
 Select 'policies' tab.Select 'policies' tab.
 Or Control Panel - System –Or Control Panel - System –
Hardware - Device ManagerHardware - Device Manager
--> Disk Drives: <Drive>:--> Disk Drives: <Drive>:
Policies, Enable write cachingPolicies, Enable write caching

31. Move the Page FileMove the Page File
 What is the Page File?What is the Page File?
 Drive area reserved for use as virtual memoryDrive area reserved for use as virtual memory
 Used when data exceeds physical memory (RAM)Used when data exceeds physical memory (RAM)
 Cool! Uh, right?Cool! Uh, right?
 No! Page file access is extremely slow. Avoid paging.No! Page file access is extremely slow. Avoid paging.
 Should be as “contiguous” as possible.Should be as “contiguous” as possible.
 Should always be accessibleShould always be accessible
 ““Two spindle” OptimizationTwo spindle” Optimization
 Move the page file to hard driveMove the page file to hard drive
other than the System driveother than the System drive
 Can improve performance by 100%Can improve performance by 100%
 How to:How to:
 Right click on 'myRight click on 'my computercomputer ''
 Select 'properties.'Select 'properties.'
 Select the 'advanced' tab.Select the 'advanced' tab.
 Under 'performance' chooseUnder 'performance' choose
'settings' button.'settings' button.
 Select the 'advanced' tab againSelect the 'advanced' tab again
 Under 'virtual memory' selectUnder 'virtual memory' select
'change.''change.'

32. ResourceResource
PerformancePerformance
TuningTuning
Network PerformanceNetwork Performance

33. TCP OptimizationTCP Optimization
 Network performance is suboptimal by defaultNetwork performance is suboptimal by default
 Generic parameters are usedGeneric parameters are used
 Dialup = DSL = 10MbpsDialup = DSL = 10Mbps
 Tool:Tool: TCPOPT.EXETCPOPT.EXE
 Settings are per AdapterSettings are per Adapter
 Optimal MaxMTUOptimal MaxMTU
 Cable modem or DSL = 1500Cable modem or DSL = 1500
 DSL PPPoE = 1492DSL PPPoE = 1492
 Dialup = 576Dialup = 576
 TCP Receive WindowTCP Receive Window
 General ValuesGeneral Values
 Extreme = 513920Extreme = 513920
 Cable modemCable modem
or DSL = 256960or DSL = 256960
 DSL PPPoE = 255552DSL PPPoE = 255552
 Dialup = 65392Dialup = 65392
 MaxConnections per Server = 20MaxConnections per Server = 20

34. Optimizing Networking:Optimizing Networking:
Increase DNS cache sizeIncrease DNS cache size
 DNS Cache saves queriesDNS Cache saves queries
 Cached DNS queries saved for finite timeCached DNS queries saved for finite time
 Bumped to make room for new addressesBumped to make room for new addresses
 Increase DNS cache to eliminate DNS lookupsIncrease DNS cache to eliminate DNS lookups
 Open REGEDIT and navigate to;Open REGEDIT and navigate to;
'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlS'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlS
etServicesDnscacheParameters'etServicesDnscacheParameters'
 Create the following DWORD values:Create the following DWORD values:
 CacheHashTableBucketSize = 1CacheHashTableBucketSize = 1
 CacheHashTableSize = 180CacheHashTableSize = 180
 MaxCacheEntryTtlLimit = ff00MaxCacheEntryTtlLimit = ff00
 MaxSOACacheEntryTtlLimit = 12dMaxSOACacheEntryTtlLimit = 12d
 Exit and restartExit and restart

35. Optimizing Networking:Optimizing Networking:
Don’t cache failed DNS entriesDon’t cache failed DNS entries
 DNS Cache saves failed queriesDNS Cache saves failed queries
 Good cached DNS queries saved for finite timeGood cached DNS queries saved for finite time
 Failed DNS entries are stored for 5 minutesFailed DNS entries are stored for 5 minutes
 Prevent unsuccessful DNS lookup cachingPrevent unsuccessful DNS lookup caching
 Open REGEDIT and navigate to:Open REGEDIT and navigate to:
'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlS'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlS
etServicesDnscacheParameters'etServicesDnscacheParameters'
 Create the following DWORD values:Create the following DWORD values:
 NegativeCacheTime= 0NegativeCacheTime= 0
 NetFailureCacheTime= 0NetFailureCacheTime= 0
 NegativeSOACacheTime= 0NegativeSOACacheTime= 0
 Reboot for the changes to take effect.Reboot for the changes to take effect.

36. ResourceResource
PerformancePerformance
TuningTuning
Memory PerformanceMemory Performance

37. Keep Windows OperatingKeep Windows Operating
Data in Main MemoryData in Main Memory
 Windows System Services swap to Page FileWindows System Services swap to Page File
 Takes time to save/retrieve to/from diskTakes time to save/retrieve to/from disk
 Does thisDoes this whether or notwhether or not system is low on physicalsystem is low on physical
RAMRAM
 Disable Windows System pagingDisable Windows System paging
 If you have 256MB of system memory or more, forceIf you have 256MB of system memory or more, force
Windows to keep its operating data in main memoryWindows to keep its operating data in main memory
 Open Regedit.Open Regedit.
 Navigate toNavigate to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMControlSet001CoHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMControlSet001Co
ntrolSession ManagerMemory Management.ntrolSession ManagerMemory Management.
 Select the DisablePagingExecutive value to '1'Select the DisablePagingExecutive value to '1'

38. Force DLL UnloadForce DLL Unload
 Applications load DLLs that lingerApplications load DLLs that linger
 Dynamic Link Libraries contain data or functionsDynamic Link Libraries contain data or functions
 Applications call DLLsApplications call DLLs
 Windows XP cache DLLs in memory for fasterWindows XP cache DLLs in memory for faster
accessaccess
 DLLs use memory AFTER applications closeDLLs use memory AFTER applications close
 Force Windows XP to unload DLLs onForce Windows XP to unload DLLs on
Application exitApplication exit
 To do this, first run REGEDIT.To do this, first run REGEDIT.
 Navigate toNavigate to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWinHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWin
dowsCurrentVersionExplorer.dowsCurrentVersionExplorer.
 Create a new key named 'AlwaysUnloadDLL‘Create a new key named 'AlwaysUnloadDLL‘
 Set the default value to equal '1.'Set the default value to equal '1.'

39. ResourceResource
PerformancePerformance
TuningTuning
Operating SystemOperating System
PerformancePerformance

40. Intel App AcceleratorIntel App Accelerator
 Intel “Disk Accelerator”Intel “Disk Accelerator”
 BenefitsBenefits
 58% Faster Boot Time58% Faster Boot Time
(Accelerated OS Load Time)(Accelerated OS Load Time)
 Accelerated Disk I/O (WinBenchAccelerated Disk I/O (WinBench
34% faster)34% faster)
 High performance data fetcherHigh performance data fetcher
 RequirementsRequirements
 Intel Chipset Software Install UtilityIntel Chipset Software Install Utility
 Older Intel chipset (pre-865)Older Intel chipset (pre-865)
 Intel Pentium 3, 4, Celeron, XeonIntel Pentium 3, 4, Celeron, Xeon
 What it doesWhat it does
 Replaces the WXP ATA (hard diskReplaces the WXP ATA (hard disk
and IDE device) drivers with onesand IDE device) drivers with ones
specially designed for Intelspecially designed for Intel
chipsets,chipsets,
 Improve disk performance and bootImprove disk performance and boot

41. Intel App AcceleratorIntel App Accelerator
 CaveatCaveat
 Affects ATA drives onlyAffects ATA drives only
 Latest IAA v2.3 not supported on MobileLatest IAA v2.3 not supported on Mobile
Processor (Use v2.2)Processor (Use v2.2)

42. Disable PerformanceDisable Performance
CountersCounters
 Windows XP Monitors Performance byWindows XP Monitors Performance by
DefaultDefault
 Perf Counters report on CPU, Memory,Perf Counters report on CPU, Memory,
Network, Page Swap, etc.Network, Page Swap, etc.
 Eats CPU; runs during every operation on PCEats CPU; runs during every operation on PC
 Take up System ResourcesTake up System Resources
 Most people don’t NEED performanceMost people don’t NEED performance
counters oncounters on
 Disable the Performance CountersDisable the Performance Counters
Tool:Tool: Extensible Performance Counter ListExtensible Performance Counter List
 Used to permanently disable theseUsed to permanently disable these
performance counters.performance counters.
 Download and install the utilityDownload and install the utility
 Run the Exctrlst.exe utilityRun the Exctrlst.exe utility
(found in 'c:program filesresource kit‘)(found in 'c:program filesresource kit‘)
 Select each line in the 'ExtensibleSelect each line in the 'Extensible
performance counters' windowperformance counters' window
 Clear the 'performance counters enabled'Clear the 'performance counters enabled'
button below.button below.
 Perfmon will have no information available toPerfmon will have no information available to
it.it.
 http://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/techinfo/reskit/tools/existing/exctrlshttp://www.microsoft.com/windows2000/techinfo/reskit/tools/existing/exctrlst

43. Set Performance setting inSet Performance setting in
SystemSystem
 Ctrl-PanelCtrl-Panel  SystemSystem  AdvancedAdvanced 
PerformancePerformance
 Animate windows when minimizing andAnimate windows when minimizing and
maximizingmaximizing
 Fade or slide menus into viewFade or slide menus into view
 Fade or slide tooltops into viewFade or slide tooltops into view
 Fade out menu items after clickingFade out menu items after clicking
 Show shadows…Show shadows…

44. SummarySummary
 Disk performanceDisk performance
 Scan your disk for logical/physical errorsScan your disk for logical/physical errors
 System & Page File Defrag/DiskeeperSystem & Page File Defrag/Diskeeper
 Enable write cachingEnable write caching
 Move the Page file from the System driveMove the Page file from the System drive
 RegistryRegistry
 Disable NTFS Last UpdateDisable NTFS Last Update
 Network performanceNetwork performance
 TCP OptimizerTCP Optimizer
 RegistryRegistry
 Increase DNS CacheIncrease DNS Cache
 Don’t cache DNS failed entriesDon’t cache DNS failed entries
 Memory utilization & performanceMemory utilization & performance
 BlackViper & Services.mscBlackViper & Services.msc
 Registry:Registry:
 Keep Kernel in MemoryKeep Kernel in Memory
 Force Application DLL unloading from MemoryForce Application DLL unloading from Memory
 OS resource optimizationOS resource optimization
 Enable Intel Application AcceleratorEnable Intel Application Accelerator
 Disable Performance CountersDisable Performance Counters
 Unset Performance checkboxes in CtrlPanel-SystemUnset Performance checkboxes in CtrlPanel-System

45. HardwareHardware
AdjustmentsAdjustments
Video/Memory Latency &Video/Memory Latency &
Why enabling everything isWhy enabling everything is
evilevil

46. Video Adapter Overclocking:Video Adapter Overclocking:
nVidianVidia
 Windows XP Driver package hasWindows XP Driver package has
Hidden OverclockingHidden Overclocking
 Activate overclocking inActivate overclocking in Nvidia cardsNvidia cards ::
 Open REGEDITOpen REGEDIT
 Navigate toNavigate to
'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareNVI'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareNVI
DIA CorporationGlobalNVTweak'DIA CorporationGlobalNVTweak'
 Create a new DWORD value calledCreate a new DWORD value called
'Coolbits' and give it a value of '3''Coolbits' and give it a value of '3'
 Reboot.Reboot.
 ““Cool bits” - 'clock frequency' pageCool bits” - 'clock frequency' page
 Adjust the GPU and memory clockAdjust the GPU and memory clock
speedsspeeds
 Allow the drivers to test themAllow the drivers to test them
 Just a test for stability, notJust a test for stability, not
guarantee of overclockguarantee of overclock
 ‘‘Auto detect' buttonAuto detect' button
 Determine the recommended levelDetermine the recommended level
of overclockingof overclocking
 Use of this feature generally resultsUse of this feature generally results
in slightly conservative settingsin slightly conservative settings
 Changes will be appliedChanges will be applied
automatically upon pressing 'ok.'automatically upon pressing 'ok.'

47. Video Adapter Overclocking:Video Adapter Overclocking:
nVidianVidia
 WARNING:WARNING:
Thermal SafeguardThermal Safeguard
 Will actually slow themselvesWill actually slow themselves
down to avoid damage fromdown to avoid damage from
excessive heatexcessive heat
 Overclocking the card ofOverclocking the card of
course produces more heat-course produces more heat-
safeguard may kick insafeguard may kick in
 The safeguard will still be inThe safeguard will still be in
effect until the card gets aeffect until the card gets a
proper chance to cool down aproper chance to cool down a
bit (by rebooting, for example.)bit (by rebooting, for example.)
 Use the 'apply settings atUse the 'apply settings at
startup' checkboxstartup' checkbox

48. Video Adapter Overclocking:Video Adapter Overclocking:
ATIATI
 No Overclocking feature in WindowsNo Overclocking feature in Windows
XP driversXP drivers
 3rd party3rd party softwaresoftware is necessary -is necessary -
Radlinker utilityRadlinker utility, Plugin, Plugin
 To overclock an ATITo overclock an ATI video cardvideo card withwith
Radlinker:Radlinker:
 Install the program.Install the program.
 Go to 'startcontrol paneldisplay' andGo to 'startcontrol paneldisplay' and
select the 'settings' tab then hitselect the 'settings' tab then hit
'advanced.'advanced.
 Select the 'Radlinker' tab.Select the 'Radlinker' tab.
 Check the 'enable clock rate change'Check the 'enable clock rate change'
box. The sliders below are nowbox. The sliders below are now
enabled, allowing you to overclock theenabled, allowing you to overclock the
memory and processor speed.memory and processor speed.
 Click the set button to set the desiredClick the set button to set the desired
rate, then benchmark the card.rate, then benchmark the card.
 Once you have an acceptableOnce you have an acceptable
overclock, use the 'use current' buttonoverclock, use the 'use current' button
below to apply the changes every timebelow to apply the changes every time
you boot.you boot.

49. Change Memory LatencyChange Memory Latency
TimesTimes
 Latency = ‘Turnaround' time of your memoryLatency = ‘Turnaround' time of your memory
 How long it takes for the memory to prepare to sendHow long it takes for the memory to prepare to send
and receive data.and receive data.
 Lower latency equal better system performanceLower latency equal better system performance
 Lowering times puts stress on your memoryLowering times puts stress on your memory
 Facts about MemoryFacts about Memory
 Higher the rating, the higher its latency will be.Higher the rating, the higher its latency will be.
 Memory designed for overclocking have higher latencyMemory designed for overclocking have higher latency
settings than 'normal' memory.settings than 'normal' memory.
 Significant latency settings for modern DDR memorySignificant latency settings for modern DDR memory
(listed here in order of significance)(listed here in order of significance)
 CAS (Column Address strobe) Latency:CAS (Column Address strobe) Latency: The time between aThe time between a
data request and the data being made available.data request and the data being made available.
 RAS-to-CAS latency:RAS-to-CAS latency: Delay incurred by activating a newDelay incurred by activating a new
'row' of memory addresses to read from. More'row' of memory addresses to read from. More
important for DDR memory.important for DDR memory.
 RAS precharge:RAS precharge: How long a row of memory is held 'open'How long a row of memory is held 'open'
(powered) so that data can be read from it.(powered) so that data can be read from it.
 ACT to precharge delay:ACT to precharge delay: I have no idea.I have no idea.
 More info:More info:
 http://www.pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?articleID=873http://www.pcstats.com/articleview.cfm?articleID=873

50. Disable unneeded portsDisable unneeded ports
 Do you really use your serial port?Do you really use your serial port?
Parallel port? That’s what I thought.Parallel port? That’s what I thought.
 Disabling unneeded ports in BIOSDisabling unneeded ports in BIOS
 Streamlines bootStreamlines boot
 Improves performanceImproves performance
 Easy to reverseEasy to reverse
 Look in the 'integrated peripherals'Look in the 'integrated peripherals'
section of the BIOS to find your portssection of the BIOS to find your ports
and disable them.and disable them.

51. Cleaning up theCleaning up the
SystemSystem
DLLs, Temp files, & TurdsDLLs, Temp files, & Turds

52. Remove unused DLLsRemove unused DLLs
 Unnecessary DLLs are badUnnecessary DLLs are bad
 Clog registryClog registry
 Can slow systemCan slow system
 Question:Question:
How do you knowHow do you know
what DLLs are needed?what DLLs are needed?
 Tool:Tool: DLLTOYSDLLTOYS
 Diligently checks all DLL dependencies betweenDiligently checks all DLL dependencies between
registered libraries and applicationsregistered libraries and applications
 Lists & removes unnecessary/orphaned DLLLists & removes unnecessary/orphaned DLL
registrationsregistrations
 Warning: This is an overnight process!Warning: This is an overnight process!

53. Delete Temp FilesDelete Temp Files
 Temp files lurk all overTemp files lurk all over
 IE cache, cookiesIE cache, cookies
 Memory dumpsMemory dumps
 Application temp directoriesApplication temp directories
 Histories, partial downloadsHistories, partial downloads
 Log filesLog files
 Chkdisk fragmentsChkdisk fragments
 ClipboardClipboard
 Recycle BinRecycle Bin
 Prefetch dataPrefetch data
 Multiple Profiles!Multiple Profiles!
 Tool:Tool: CCLEANER.EXECCLEANER.EXE
 Automagically cleans out every directoryAutomagically cleans out every directory
 Includes 3Includes 3rdrd
party application (Adobe, Netscape,party application (Adobe, Netscape,
Real)Real)
 Saves desired cookiesSaves desired cookies

54. Delete Temp FilesDelete Temp Files

55. Cover Your TracksCover Your Tracks
 Paranoid?Paranoid?
 Think of all theThink of all the
programs that keepprograms that keep
your usage historiesyour usage histories
besides IE and WMPbesides IE and WMP
 Bearshare, CuteFTP,Bearshare, CuteFTP,
AOL IM, Acrobat, DiVX,AOL IM, Acrobat, DiVX,
FlashGet, KaZaa, ICQ,FlashGet, KaZaa, ICQ,
iMesh, Netscape, Opera,iMesh, Netscape, Opera,
PowerDVD, WinZip,PowerDVD, WinZip,
Trillian, ULead, etc.Trillian, ULead, etc.
 Clean up after yourselfClean up after yourself
Tool:Tool: Advanced Tracks EraserAdvanced Tracks Eraser
 Clears Microsoft & 3Clears Microsoft & 3rdrd
party applicationsparty applications
 Cleans up ever login/logoffCleans up ever login/logoff
 Cleans up every 2 minutesCleans up every 2 minutes
 Cleans up with multiple overwritesCleans up with multiple overwrites

56. SummarySummary
 Hardware AdjustmentsHardware Adjustments
 Video overclockingVideo overclocking
 Adjust Memory LatencyAdjust Memory Latency
 Disable portsDisable ports
 Cleaning up the systemCleaning up the system
 DLLToysDLLToys
 CrapCleanerCrapCleaner
 Advanced Tracks EraserAdvanced Tracks Eraser

57. OtherOther
 Optimizing Internet ExplorerOptimizing Internet Explorer
 HOST blocker -HOST blocker - http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.txthttp://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.txt
 Avant Browser –Avant Browser – http://www.avantbrowser.comhttp://www.avantbrowser.com
 Maxthon –Maxthon – http://www.maxthon.comhttp://www.maxthon.com
 FlashGet – http://www.amazesoft.com/FlashGet – http://www.amazesoft.com/
 MSN Toolbar Suite (http://sandbox.msn.com)MSN Toolbar Suite (http://sandbox.msn.com)
 How to Repair/Reinstall Internet Explorer (QHow to Repair/Reinstall Internet Explorer (Q 318378)318378)
 IE Download Limit FixIE Download Limit Fix
 Optimizing application executionOptimizing application execution
 PDF SpeedUpPDF SpeedUp
 Cool add-ons & tool for Windows XPCool add-ons & tool for Windows XP
 SP2 Wireless Connectivity Fix (Q884020)SP2 Wireless Connectivity Fix (Q884020)
 SP2 Connection Limit Fix (http://www.LvlLord.de)SP2 Connection Limit Fix (http://www.LvlLord.de)
 DUMeter – http://www.dumeter.comDUMeter – http://www.dumeter.com
 DVDGenie – http://www.inmatrix.comDVDGenie – http://www.inmatrix.com
 RM.EXE (Bad Filenames)RM.EXE (Bad Filenames)
 Diskpie – http://www.zornsoftware.comDiskpie – http://www.zornsoftware.com
 FreeRAM – http://www.bysoft.comFreeRAM – http://www.bysoft.com
 Windows XP PowertoysWindows XP Powertoys
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloads/powertoys/xppowehttp://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloads/powertoys/xppowe
rtoys.mspxrtoys.mspx
 ScreensaversScreensavers
 Bluescreen, Aquarium, Bliss, 3D WinXP, etc.Bluescreen, Aquarium, Bliss, 3D WinXP, etc.

59. ResourcesResources
 CDROM: Kurt’s Optimization ToolkitCDROM: Kurt’s Optimization Toolkit
 Contains all software referenced hereContains all software referenced here
 Also available at:Also available at:
http://www.evilkoala.org/download/optimizingWinXP.zhttp://www.evilkoala.org/download/optimizingWinXP.z
ipip
 DOC: “Beginner’s Guide to Speeding UpDOC: “Beginner’s Guide to Speeding Up
Windows XP”Windows XP”
 A summary document with many of the improvementsA summary document with many of the improvements
mentioned herementioned here
 Also available at:Also available at:
http://www.evilkoala.org/download/bgsuwxp.ziphttp://www.evilkoala.org/download/bgsuwxp.zip

61. AppendixAppendix
Slides I still haven’t cleanedSlides I still haven’t cleaned
up for inclusionup for inclusion

62. Increase NetworkIncrease Network
Browsing SpeedsBrowsing Speeds
 See notes.See notes.
 Need to clean this up.Need to clean this up.

63. How to Repair/ReinstallHow to Repair/Reinstall
Windows XPWindows XP
 System File CheckerSystem File Checker
 sfc /scannowsfc /scannow
 Taken from Support QTaken from Support Q 318378318378

64. Repairing Windows XPRepairing Windows XP
 See notes.See notes.
 Need to clean this up.Need to clean this up.

65. How to Repair/ReinstallHow to Repair/Reinstall
Internet Explorer 6.0Internet Explorer 6.0
 Initiate System File Checker scanInitiate System File Checker scan
 sfc /scannowsfc /scannow
 WinXP Gold or SP1?WinXP Gold or SP1?
 HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftActivHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftActiv
e SetupInstalled Components{89820200-ECBD-e SetupInstalled Components{89820200-ECBD-
11cf-8B85-00AA005B4383}11cf-8B85-00AA005B4383}
 Set to 0Set to 0
 Download & install IE6.0 then update withDownload & install IE6.0 then update with
WindowsUpdateWindowsUpdate
 WinXP SP2?WinXP SP2?
 Reinstall SP2Reinstall SP2
 Taken from Support QTaken from Support Q 318378318378

66. Disable Network CheckDisable Network Check
 My Computer opens slowlyMy Computer opens slowly
 Checks for network resourcesChecks for network resources
 PrintersPrinters
 File SharesFile Shares
 ComputersComputers
 Disable network checkDisable network check
 Open My ComputerOpen My Computer
 Click “Tools” menu itemClick “Tools” menu item
 Click Folder OptionsClick Folder Options
 Click View tabClick View tab
 Go to Advanced SettingsGo to Advanced Settings
 Uncheck “Automatically Search for NetworkUncheck “Automatically Search for Network
Folders and Printers”Folders and Printers”

67. A Word on Benchmarking:A Word on Benchmarking:
 Use 'whole system' performance benchmarksUse 'whole system' performance benchmarks
 Artificial benchmarking programs are a great way toArtificial benchmarking programs are a great way to
see the relative performance increase that your tweakssee the relative performance increase that your tweaks
and changes have achieved. Running a benchmarkand changes have achieved. Running a benchmark
before and after a prospective change will give you abefore and after a prospective change will give you a
good idea of where you stand.good idea of where you stand.
 Several companies produce 'whole system benchmarks'Several companies produce 'whole system benchmarks'
designed to stress test every area of your PC'sdesigned to stress test every area of your PC's
performance and give you a result which you can useperformance and give you a result which you can use
as a benchmark for improving your system's speed.as a benchmark for improving your system's speed.
 Try PCMark 2004 by Futuremark, SiSoftware's SandraTry PCMark 2004 by Futuremark, SiSoftware's Sandra
2004 and Veritest's Winbench 99. In addition to2004 and Veritest's Winbench 99. In addition to
benchmarking, these applications can also providebenchmarking, these applications can also provide
valuable information about your PC and itsvaluable information about your PC and its
configuration.configuration.

68. The “Hidden” ApplicationsThe “Hidden” Applications
in Add/Remove Programsin Add/Remove Programs
 What is it?What is it?
 Uninstall unwanted Windows ComponentsUninstall unwanted Windows Components
 HowHow
 c:windowsinfsysoc.infc:windowsinfsysoc.inf
 Remove the word "hide“Remove the word "hide“
 Go to Add/Remove Windows ComponentsGo to Add/Remove Windows Components
 UninstallUninstall

69. Thank YouThank You
http://optimizurpc.co.cchttp://optimizurpc.co.cc
http://optimize-ur-pc.blogspot.comhttp://optimize-ur-pc.blogspot.com