How to Turn Off Startup Programs on Linux
Both normal applications and system services, to speed up boot.
With graphical interface (GNOME)
Search for "Startup Applications" (or install
gnome-tweaks if it doesn't show up) — lists programs set
to start with you, with a switch to turn off each one.
System services (more advanced)
systemctl list-unit-files --type=service --state=enabled
Lists services that start automatically — to disable a specific one you don't need:
sudo systemctl disable service-name
Warning: disabling a system service (unlike a simple startup app) needs more care — some are needed for basic functions you might not directly associate with their name.
Tip: start with normal startup applications (safer to touch) before getting into system services — that's usually enough to notice a real improvement in boot time.
Frequently asked questions
Is turning off startup apps safer than system services?
Yes, generally — normal startup applications (from the graphical interface) are safer to touch than system services, which may be needed for basic functions.
How do I know which system services are safe to disable?
Research the service's name before disabling it — if you don't recognise its function or aren't sure, it's safer to leave it on than risk disabling something essential.