I want to edit my autoexec.bat file to eliminate the number of programs that start up when the computer is booted up. I tried going into the command prompt but when I put in, edit c:\autoexec.bat, it is BLANK? How to I view it so I can change it?Your system MIGHT not require one. The editor opened up a new one for you to create. Also some OSes don't use autoexec.bat and some require it be in the root DIRECTORY of the system DISK. Try doing a Search or Find for autoexec.bat before creating a new one from scratch.

What OS are you using?

I use windows XP. The programs I want turned off are the Yahoo chat, msn messenger and windows media player that are all trying to open at once. Can I edit the autoexec file to turn them off at start up?

Thanks
Download and run 'Autoruns' from
http://www.sysinternals.com
There are many other ways to stop these programs from starting at bootup but the Autoruns program will help you see everything else that's going on.
Tip: In Autoruns, select tools & HIDE windows stuff.