Remove Blank Entries from the MSConfig Startup Tab in Windows XP

When reviewing the items set to automatically start on boot, listed on the Startup tab of the MSConfig utility, you might see blank entries. These can be created, for instance, when a program is uninstalled. Though these don’t really pose a problem, you can remove them for sanitary reasons.

First, ensure the blank entries are enabled on the Startup tab of the MSConfig utility and check the Registry location:

1. On the Run prompt or search field, type “msconfig” and hit Enter. Then select the Startup tab, check the blank entry or entries, and click Apply.
2. Before leaving, check and note the Location of the blank entries.

Now you can remove them via a registry edit:

1. On the Run prompt or search field, type “regedit” and hit Enter.
2. Navigate to the registry location that you noted.
3. Right-click on the ones that have blank Data and choose Delete.