Microsoft Introduces Enhanced Startup Feature for Office Applications

Microsoft has announced plans to enhance the startup process of its Office applications, aiming to improve performance and reduce load times. This new feature, referred to as 'Startup Boost', will be rolled out starting in May.

According to information shared in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center, the upgrade will involve adding a new task named 'Startup Boost' to the system's task scheduler. This initiative is designed to optimize how Microsoft Office applications launch.

The installation of the Microsoft Office suite will include this new task, which keeps the application in a 'paused' state after it has been started. This allows the app to remain ready for use until it is launched by the user or released from memory by the system to free up resources. The scheduler can execute this task at startup and periodically, dependent on the overall system conditions.

Initially, the 'Startup Boost' feature will be integrated with Microsoft Word, with plans for broader implementation by the end of May. The process will include the introduction of two new tasks in the task scheduler: 'Office Startup Boost' and 'Office Startup Boost Logon'.

For the feature to be activated, the PC must meet certain resource requirements, including a minimum of 8 GB of RAM and 5 GB of free disk space. If the computer is in power-saving mode, the 'Startup Boost' function will be disabled to prevent any adverse impact on system performance.

Users will have the option to disable 'Startup Boost' if they prefer longer load times for their Office applications. This can be done through the settings in Word under 'Options' and 'General' in the 'Startup Boost' section. Additionally, the task can be turned off in the task scheduler, although it will be re-enabled with subsequent Office updates, necessitating administrators to adjust it again if needed.

In a related development, Microsoft recently launched an ad-supported version of its Office suite, which does not require subscription fees but comes with several limitations. This offering is currently available to select customers during the installation of the Office package, although no official announcement has been made regarding its full rollout.