Microsoft Introduces Startup Boost to Enhance Office Applications Performance
In September 2024, Microsoft provided users with valuable insights on improving startup performance in Windows operating systems. Recognizing that slow load times can also affect Office applications, the tech giant has announced an innovative feature called “Startup Boost.”This new functionality is set to debut in Microsoft Word, with plans to extend its availability to other Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Announcement Details from Microsoft
Microsoft shared this information through the Microsoft 365 admin center, detailing the mechanics and rollout timeline of the new feature. According to the company:
We are introducing a new Startup Boost task from the Microsoft Office installer to optimize performance and load-time of experiences within Office applications. After the system performs the task, the app remains in a paused state until the app launches and the sequence resumes, or the system removes the app from memory to reclaim resources. The system can perform this task for an app after a device reboot and periodically as system conditions allow.
When this will happen:
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, DoD): We will begin rolling out mid-May 2025 and expect to complete by late May 2025.
How this will affect your organization:
New tasks will be publicly visible in the Windows Task Scheduler.
- Task Names: Office Startup Boost and Office Startup Boost Logon.
- Task Description: This task ensures that Office applications can take advantage of preloading performance enhancements.
Initial roll-out will be on Microsoft Word and support for additional applications will come in future updates.
This rollout will happen automatically with no admin action required.
You can disable this Startup Boost task like any other scheduled task. Please note that the Office Installer will automatically recreate all scheduled tasks when it applies an update, so users who disable this task will need to disable it again after an Office update.
Resource Requirements for Startup Boost
Microsoft has specified that the Startup Boost feature is contingent upon certain hardware specifications, necessitating systems to have at least 8 GB of RAM and 5 GB of available disk space. This approach appears to enhance performance through a method akin to caching, enabling quicker task loads. As stated by the tech giant:
Startup Boost is only available when your PC has enough resources to run without impacting system performance. This includes having at least 8 GB of available RAM and at least 5 GB of available disk space. Additionally, Startup Boost will be disabled when Energy Saver mode is active.
Startup Boost is an optional performance feature. It is safe to disable. When disabled, Microsoft Office applications will be fully functional but may take longer to load. Customers can disable Startup Boost entirely by preventing the process from starting. To disable the feature, use the in-app setting, e.g., Word > Options > General > Startup Boost (under Start up Options).
Access and Insights for IT Administrators
IT professionals and system administrators utilizing the Microsoft 365 admin center will have the capability to review the announcement under Message ID MC1041470. This feature marks a significant step toward optimizing the efficiency of Office applications, catering to the needs of both end-users and IT departments alike.
For more details, visit the full article here.
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