If you have problems with your computer and you suspect that they are caused by Windows fast startup, we will help you disable this feature. We will also talk about what it is for.
What is Windows Fast Startup
The Fast Startup feature in Windows 10 and 11 allows your computer to boot up faster after you shut down. It does this by storing the kernel session and device drivers (system information) in a hibernation file (hiberfil.sys) on disk, rather than closing them completely when you shut down your computer. The next time you turn on your computer, Windows can quickly load this data, allowing you to resume work much faster than with a normal cold start.
Fast startup in Windows does not save the state of open programs or files. When you turn off your computer, all open programs and files will be closed. Fast startup only affects the operating system boot process, not the state of your personal applications or files.
If you decide to disable fast startup, you probably encountered some problems. These may be:
- System boot issues: In some cases, fast startup can cause system boot issues, especially if you have dual boot with another operating system;
- Update issues: Fast startup can interfere with the normal Windows update process because it prevents your computer from completely shutting down and restarting;
- Hard drive issues: If you use the Fast Startup feature, Windows stores some system files on your hard drive to load quickly. This can cause problems if you try to access these files from another operating system;
- Problems with network devices: In some cases, Fast Startup can cause problems with network devices such as printers and scanners, which may not connect properly when you turn on your computer;
- Power consumption: While fast startup can speed up the boot process, it can also increase power consumption slightly because your computer is still using power to store system state information.
How to Disable Fast Startup in Windows
You can disable the Fast Startup feature in Windows as follows:
- Click on the Start button and type Control Panel in the search bar, then press Enter;
- In the Control Panel, find and open the System and Security section, then select Power Options;
- On the left side of the menu, select “Choose what the power buttons do”;
- At the top of the window, click the link “Change settings that are currently unavailable”;
- Scroll down to the Shutdown options section and uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended). Then click Save changes.
Please note that disabling Fast Startup may slightly increase your computer’s boot time. However, it may help resolve some issues related to Fast Startup.
Other ways to disable fast startup
How to Disable Fast Startup Using Registry
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes;
- In the registry editor, in the left pane, go to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SYSTEM\\CurrentControlSet\\Control\\Session Manager\\Power;
- In the right pane, find the HiberbootEnabled parameter. Double-click it to open the value change dialog box. Enter 0 in the “Value data” field and click OK;
- Close the registry editor. The changes will take effect the next time you restart your computer.
How to Disable Fast Startup Using Terminal (PowerShell)
- Press Win + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin). In the Russian version of Windows, the program is called “Terminal (Administrator)”. If a User Account Control prompt appears, click Yes.
- Type the following command and press Enter: powercfg /h off
- This command disables hibernation as well as fast startup, since fast startup depends on hibernation.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Quick Start
Like many other Windows features, Fast Startup has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Faster startup: Your computer boots up much faster than a normal shutdown;
- Convenience: All your programs and windows will be open in the same state they were in when you turned off your computer, allowing you to get back to work right away.
Cons
- Dual Boot Issues: If you have more than one operating system installed, Fast Startup may cause dual boot issues;
- Update issues: Fast startup can interfere with the normal Windows update process because it prevents your computer from completely shutting down and restarting;
- Problems with network devices: In some cases, Fast Startup can cause problems with network devices such as printers and scanners, which may not connect properly when you turn on your computer;
- Hard drive issues: If you use the Fast Startup feature, Windows stores some system files on your hard drive to load quickly. This can cause problems if you try to access these files from another operating system.