Managing which apps run when your PC starts is one of the easiest ways to speed up your computer and take control of your system performance. In Windows 11, Microsoft has made it simple to adjust startup apps, but many users don’t realize just how much of a difference this can make.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to change startup apps in Windows 11 step by step. Whether you want to disable unnecessary programs, add apps you use daily, or troubleshoot slow boot times, this article has you covered.
📝 Quick Summary: Key Takeaways
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Startup apps are programs that automatically launch when Windows boots up.
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Too many startup apps can slow down your PC.
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You can manage startup apps in Task Manager, Settings, File Explorer, or via the Registry.
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Disabling unnecessary apps improves boot time and performance.
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Essential apps (like antivirus software) should be left enabled.
Why Should You Change Startup Apps in Windows 11?
Have you ever wondered why your PC takes forever to boot, even though it’s brand-new? Startup apps are often the culprit.
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Performance boost: Fewer apps running on startup = faster boot times.
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Better battery life: On laptops, background apps drain power.
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Less clutter: Keeps your desktop and taskbar clean.
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More control: You decide which apps are truly necessary.
Think of it like your morning routine: if you try to do 10 things at once, you’ll leave the house late. The same goes for your PC — fewer startup tasks mean a quicker start.
Understanding Startup Apps in Windows 11
Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly cover what startup apps are.
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Definition: Startup apps are programs that automatically load when you turn on your PC.
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Examples: Microsoft Teams, Spotify, OneDrive, Steam, or antivirus software.
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Impact: Some apps barely affect performance, while others hog memory and CPU.
Which Startup Apps Are Safe to Disable?
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✅ Music apps, chat apps (unless you use them daily)
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✅ Game launchers
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✅ Cloud services you don’t always need
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❌ Antivirus/security software (keep these enabled)
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❌ Essential drivers (graphics, touchpad, etc.)
How to Change Startup Apps in Windows 11: Step-by-Step
Now let’s go through the different methods to manage startup apps.
Method 1: Using Windows Settings
This is the easiest way for beginners.
Steps:
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Go to Apps > Startup.
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You’ll see a list of apps with toggle switches.
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Turn the switch On or Off depending on whether you want the app to run at startup.
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Check the impact rating (High, Medium, Low) next to each app.
👉 Pro tip: Disable apps with “High impact” unless you use them daily.
Method 2: Using Task Manager
Task Manager gives more detailed control.
Steps:
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Right-click the Taskbar and select Task Manager.
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Click on the Startup apps tab.
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Review the list of programs.
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Right-click any app and select Enable or Disable.
This is especially useful if you want to check startup impact.
Method 3: Adding Apps to Startup
What if you want an app to always run at startup?
Steps:
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Press Windows + R, type
shell:startup, and hit Enter. -
This opens the Startup folder.
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Copy and paste the shortcut of the app you want to add.
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Next time you restart, the app will launch automatically.
Method 4: Using File Explorer (Advanced)
You can manually manage startup apps via File Explorer.
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Startup folders:
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For current user →
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup -
For all users →
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
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Here, you can add or remove shortcuts directly.
Method 5: Registry Editor (Expert Level)
⚠️ Warning: The Registry is powerful — make changes carefully.
Steps:
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Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. -
Navigate to:
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HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run -
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
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On the right pane, you’ll see startup apps.
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Right-click an entry → Delete to remove it.
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To add, right-click → New → String Value → enter app details.
How to Check Which Startup Apps Are Slowing Down Windows 11
Not all startup apps are equal. Windows tells you the impact of each app.
| Impact Rating | Meaning | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| High | Slows boot time significantly | Disable unless critical |
| Medium | Slight delay | Optional |
| Low | Barely affects boot | Usually safe to leave on |
👉 Use Task Manager or Settings to see the rating.
Tips for Managing Startup Apps Efficiently
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Prioritize productivity apps (Outlook, Teams, Slack if you use them daily).
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Disable game launchers unless you’re always gaming.
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Check cloud apps (Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive) — only keep what you need.
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Review regularly — apps re-add themselves after updates.
Common Issues When Changing Startup Apps
1. “App keeps re-enabling itself”
Some apps (like Spotify or Skype) re-add themselves. Check the app’s own settings to disable “Run at startup.”
2. “Startup folder is empty but apps still launch”
This means the app is enabled via Task Manager or Registry.
3. “PC still slow after disabling startup apps”
Other issues like too many background processes, malware, or insufficient RAM might be to blame.
How to Speed Up Boot Even More
Changing startup apps is just one step. Try these too:
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Enable Fast Startup (Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power button does).
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Uninstall unnecessary apps.
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Update Windows and drivers.
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Run a malware scan.
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Upgrade to SSD if still on HDD.
Advanced: Group Policy Editor for Startup Control (Pro & Enterprise)
If you’re on Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can use Group Policy.
Steps:
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Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc, and hit Enter. -
Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon.
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Configure policies like Run these programs at user logon.
This is mainly for IT admins or advanced users.
Conclusion
Changing startup apps in Windows 11 is one of the fastest ways to improve performance, speed up boot times, and take control of your PC.
To recap:
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Use Settings or Task Manager for quick changes.
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Add apps via the Startup folder if you need them.
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Use the Registry or Group Policy only if you’re comfortable with advanced tweaks.
👉 Review your startup apps regularly. Your future self will thank you every time your PC boots in seconds instead of minutes!
FAQs About Changing Startup Apps in Windows 11
1. How do I stop apps from opening on startup in Windows 11?
Go to Settings > Apps > Startup, then toggle off the app you don’t want to run.
2. Can disabling startup apps cause problems?
No, but avoid disabling antivirus, drivers, or system services.
3. How do I add apps to startup in Windows 11?
Open the Startup folder (shell:startup) and place the app shortcut there.
4. Why do some apps keep re-adding themselves to startup?
Some apps have internal settings that override Windows. Check the app’s preferences.
5. What startup apps should I always keep enabled?
Security apps (antivirus, firewall) and essential drivers should always remain enabled.