Overview

The Microsoft Systems Configuration Utility (MSCONFIG) is a program that allows changes to be made to which programs and services start when the computer loads Windows.  AT&T uses this tool as a means of testing whether startup programs and services are adversely affecting the tethered connection.  Many applications, such as weather notifications, messaging applications, and software update utilities, can use enough bandwidth, or connection speed, to make the connection seem slow.  Likewise services such as antivirus and firewall applications can block the internet connection if not properly configured.  By disabling these programs that start with Windows the MSCONFIG utility can be used to determine if the startup items are the actual cause of the problem.  If the connection functions properly after these items have been disabled it will be necessary to contact the computer or software manufacturer in order to troubleshoot the conflicting software.

Procedure

IMPORTANT: After testing connectivity with all startup items disabled, remember to re-enable all desired startup items, to ensure that any anti-virus, firewall, or spyware protection software is enabled. To do this, run through the same steps, but on step 5 select Enable All.

1. Click Start and select Run.
   NOTE: If using Windows Vista click Start, type msconfig in the search field, press enter, and proceed to step 3.
   
    
2. Type msconfig and click OK.
   
    
3. Select the Selective Startup button.
   
    
4. Click the Startup tab.
   
   
5. Click the Disable All button, then click OK.
   
   
6. Click Restart to reboot the computer.
   
    
7. On reboot click OK.
   
    
8. Click Cancel to close the MSCONFIG utility.