Desktop composition is also known as Aero. It can either be disabled globally or on a program by program basis. Having it disabled while running such things as 3D games may provide a performance bump.
Note
When set to disabled, the program Aero will only temporarily be disabled. After the program ends Aero will be turned on automatically.
Warning
Keep in mind that you may need to select the main executable in step 1 below. Some games for example use a launcher to start the game which then starts the main program. In this case you do NOT want to change the launcher.
Here's How:
1. Navigate to the executable or shortcut for the program you wish to disable desktop composition using Explorer.
2. Right click on it and select Properties.
3. Select the Compatibility tab and check Disable desktop composition, then click on OK.
System Manufacturer/Model Number ASUSTeK Computer INC. CM5675 OS Windows 7 Ultimate CPU Core(TM) i5 CPU 650 @ 3.20GHz Motherboard ASUSTeK Computer INC. CM5675 Memory 6.00 GB Graphics Card Intel(R) HD Graphics Sound Card Intel HD integtrated Monitor(s) Displays Samsung 24' Screen Resolution 1900/1020
Hard Drives (1) INTEL SSD SA2M120G2GC ATA Device (2) ST31000528AS ATA Device Internet Speed 30mb
Seems like this should get Diablo II to run for me, but it doesn't. I've been fiddling with video settings like this and it still just flickers, makes a weird sound, and then doesn't actually start. Any advice?