Microsoft Windows 11 operating system comes with the Startup feature similar to that of the earlier versions of Windows OS. As the name suggests, the feature allows selected programs to start immediately when the computer is started.
Although the necessary applications are included in the system’s list of applications, the Windows operating system permits users to modify the settings to allow additional applications to be added to the list of apps to load whenever the system is launched.
There are many methods for enabling the automatic loading of apps within Windows 11. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through an easy step-by-step procedure on how to configure applications to run automatically on windows 11 using the Startup Settings option.
Also Read- How to Disable Ads in Windows 11 File Explorer
1. Launch Apps at Startup from Settings
This is the easiest method for most apps.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Apps > Startup.
- Find the app you want to launch automatically.
- Turn its switch On.
The app will now start when you sign in to Windows.
To stop it later, return to the same page and turn the switch Off.
2. Use Task Manager
You can also manage startup apps through Task Manager.
- Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager.
- Click Startup apps.
- Select the app you want to change.
- Click Enable.
To prevent an app from starting automatically, select it and click Disable.
Task Manager may also show the app’s startup impact, which can help you decide which programs you actually need running when Windows starts.
3. Add an App to the Startup Folder
If the app doesn’t appear in Settings or Task Manager, you can add it manually.
Press Windows + R, type:
shell:startupand press Enter.
Windows will open your Startup folder. Add a shortcut for the application to this folder.
The next time you sign in, Windows will launch the app automatically.
To remove it later, simply delete its shortcut from the Startup folder.
Start an App for All Windows Users
If you want an application to start automatically for every user account on the PC, press Windows + R and enter:
shell:common startupPress Enter, then add the application’s shortcut to the folder that opens.
Why Isn’t My App Listed?
Not every application appears in the Startup settings.
If you can’t find your app, check whether it has its own Start with Windows or Launch at startup option. Otherwise, using the Startup folder is usually the simplest workaround.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make an app open when Windows 11 starts?
Go to Settings > Apps > Startup and turn on the app you want. You can also add its shortcut to the Startup folder.
How do I stop an app from starting automatically?
Go to Settings > Apps > Startup and turn the app off, or disable it from Task Manager > Startup apps.
Does disabling a startup app uninstall it?
No. It only stops the app from opening automatically when you sign in.
