Speed Up Windows XP: Disable Last Access Updating

Optimizing Windows XP Disk Access: Disabling Last Access Time Updates

A lesser-known feature of Windows XP involves updating file access times whenever a file is opened by an application. This process, while functional, may not always be beneficial to system performance. Consequently, it's possible to disable this behavior. It’s important to note that this modification isn’t required for Windows Vista, as the default setting already prevents last access time updates, even after upgrading from Windows XP.

Manual Registry Modification

The process of disabling last access updating can be achieved through a direct edit of the Windows Registry. Begin by launching the Registry Editor, regedit.exe, via the Run dialog box accessible through the Start menu.

Navigate to the following registry key:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\FileSystem

Within the right-hand pane of this key, a new DWORD value must be created. Name this value NtfsDisableLastAccessUpdate and assign it a value of 1.

To revert this change, simply delete the newly created key or reset its value to 0. A system restart is necessary for the changes to be fully implemented.

Automated Registry Tweak Download

For users who prefer a more streamlined approach, a downloadable registry tweak is available. This file automates the modification process.

Download and extract the contents of the archive. Then, double-click the DisableLastAccessUpdate.reg file to import the necessary settings into the registry.

A corresponding removal script is also included within the download package, allowing for easy reversal of the tweak.

Download DisableLastAccessUpdate Registry Tweak

By implementing either of these methods, you can potentially improve disk access speeds in Windows XP by preventing unnecessary updates to file access times.