Correct Response: D. Slow boot up is most often caused by the time it takes for the computer to launch background programs during system boot. These background programs perform specialized functions such as checking for updates when associated software is loaded, launching associated programs when certain peripherals are connected, or facilitating specialized processes that most users never need. Not only does the time taken to load all of these programs slow down the boot process, but also all of these background programs take up memory and processing resources and thereby slow down everything that the computer does. Therefore, a first step in this case would be to disable unneeded startup programs. A, B, and C are incorrect because while restoring a previous operating system (A), updating software and drivers (B), and removing unnecessary desktop icons (C) are all possible steps to take, none of these would be a first step to take since none address the most likely cause of the problem.
