SQL Server services set to Delayed Start - Why?

SqlWorldWide 

Starting with SQL Server 2022, services are set to Automatic (Delayed Start) by default to improve system boot performance. This ensures SQL Server starts after critical services, reducing resource contention and preventing startup failures.

Benefits:
Faster and smoother system boot.
Avoids SQL Server startup issues if dependencies (e.g., network, storage) aren't ready.
Improves reliability on resource-constrained systems.

Should You Use Delayed Start on Older Versions?
Yes, if:
The server has many services starting at boot.
SQL Server depends on other services that take time to initialize.
However, for critical or dedicated SQL Server systems, immediate startup may be preferred.

Microsoft documentation
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sql/database-engine/configure-windows/start-stop-pause-resume-restart-sql-server-services?view=sql-server-ver16
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sql/sql-server/what-s-new-in-sql-server-2022?view=sql-server-ver16