Thank you for your reply.
When comparing benchmark tests between:
1) systems having OS core & OS apps only (no 'non-OS' apps); versus
2) systems having OS core & OS apps as well as ESET internet security installed...
...the time required to achieve 'usable system' (i.e., a user can commence launching OS system apps) is significantly longer for the post-ESET-installation systems. Upon analysis, it appears that ESET's start-up/boot-up scan is the significant difference.