Computer help forum: Stopping Programs From Starting Each Time I Log On.

You're exactly right.. Some programs have multiple startup procedures including "Services" as well as standard items such as system tray icon startups, etc. which can be disabled in "msconfig" because they start from a registry "Run" key.

As such, it's important to know WHY you're doing what you're doing.. If you're wanting to save memory/resources, then you'll want to disable all associated services and startup programs.. If you're simply wanting the system tray icon to disappear, then you only need to disable that particular item. Unfortunately, the program you're dealing with seems to have issues when restarting a service.. Not all are like that.

Unfortunately, you can't have it both ways with a program such as Counterspy or some realtime scanners. Generally, if you UNCHECK a startup item in "msconfig" but there is a service running, then some amount of memory and resources are being used but only part of the program is active. If you want such programs to do their job realtime, you need to leave them enabled in all areas.. If you don't want them to scan realtime, then you should have no problem disabling them from all areas..

But recognize that, despite your contention, some programs don't create both a service and a startup item, especially those that don't run realtime such as the free SuperAntispyware and Malwarebytes. You can use them as standalone scanners only when you need them. You might try looking for such if you're wanting a program that you can easily disable and enable.

Hope this helps.

Grif