Managing startup apps in Windows 11 can make a big difference in how fast your PC boots and how efficiently it runs. Have you ever turned on your computer only to wait ages for it to load because dozens of apps decided they had to start first? Yeah, we’ve all been there. The good news? You can take control. This guide will show you exactly how to add startup apps in Windows 11—step by step, easy as pie.
Why Bother Adding Startup Apps in Windows 11?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.”
Convenience is King
Imagine you always open Spotify, your email client, or a task management tool every time you start your PC. Instead of launching them manually, adding them to startup makes your life a whole lot easier.
Automate Your Workflow
By setting the right apps to run at startup, you create a smoother, more automated workflow. It’s like having your digital assistant prepare your desk before you arrive.
Ways to Add Startup Apps in Windows 11
There isn’t just one way to do this—Windows 11 gives you multiple paths. Let’s go through them one by one.
Method 1 – Using the Windows Settings App
The easiest method, and probably the one most people will use, is via Settings.
Step 1 – Open the Settings App
Click on the Start Menu, then choose Settings (or just press Win + I).
Step 2 – Go to Apps Section
From the left-hand sidebar, select Apps.
Step 3 – Click on Startup
Here, you’ll see a list of apps that are either enabled or disabled for startup.
Step 4 – Enable or Add Your App
Find the app you want to start automatically and toggle the switch to On.
Note: If the app isn’t listed here, don’t worry—there’s another way!
Method 2 – Adding Apps Manually via Startup Folder
Think of the Startup folder as a backstage pass for your apps—it decides who gets in during the boot-up concert.
Step 1 – Open the Run Command
Press Win + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog.
Step 2 – Type the Magic Command
Type:
shell:startup
Then press Enter.
Step 3 – Add Your App Shortcut
Copy the shortcut of the app you want to start automatically and paste it into this folder. Done!
Method 3 – Task Manager Route
If you’re a fan of Task Manager, this one’s for you.
Step 1 – Launch Task Manager
Right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager (or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
Step 2 – Navigate to Startup Tab
Click on the Startup tab to see the list of startup apps.
Step 3 – Enable Your Desired App
Select the app and click Enable at the bottom-right corner.
Method 4 – Using Windows Registry (Advanced Users)
This is a bit more advanced, so tread carefully—messing up the registry is like pulling the wrong wire in a bomb movie.
Step 1 – Open Registry Editor
Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Step 2 – Navigate to the Startup Key
Go to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Step 3 – Add a New String Value
Right-click on the right panel, select New → String Value, and name it after your app.
Step 4 – Set the Path
Double-click the new entry and enter the full path to your app’s executable file.
Things to Consider Before Adding Startup Apps
Adding too many startup apps can slow your system down. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Keep It Minimal
Only add what’s necessary. Do you really need five chat apps to open at startup?
Check App Impact
Windows 11 shows the startup impact (High, Medium, Low). Apps with High impact slow down boot times significantly.
How to Remove Startup Apps in Windows 11
Accidentally added the wrong app? Or maybe your PC feels like it’s wading through quicksand at startup?
Quick Removal via Settings
Just go back to the Settings → Apps → Startup menu and toggle it off.
Remove from Startup Folder
Delete the app’s shortcut from the Startup folder.
Disable via Task Manager
Open Task Manager, go to the Startup tab, and hit Disable.
Benefits of Managing Startup Apps
Why should you bother?
Faster Boot Times
No one likes waiting ages for their PC to start.
Improved System Performance
Fewer background processes mean more resources for the apps you’re actively using.
Cleaner Digital Workspace
Start fresh—only what’s essential, nothing more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Adding Heavy Apps
Avoid adding apps that hog CPU or RAM at startup—like big editing software or games.
Forgetting About Security
Don’t add apps from unverified sources. Startup apps have system-level privileges.
Final Thoughts
Adding startup apps in Windows 11 is a breeze once you know the ropes. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, these methods give you complete control over what launches when you boot your PC. Keep it clean, keep it smart, and your system will thank you for it.
FAQs
1. Can I add any app to startup in Windows 11?
Yes, as long as the app can run on startup and you have its executable file or shortcut.
2. Will adding too many apps slow down my PC?
Absolutely. The more apps you add, the longer it takes to boot.
3. Is there a limit to how many startup apps I can have?
Technically, no. But practically, fewer is better for performance.
4. Can I add web apps or websites to startup?
Yes, by creating a shortcut to the browser with the website link and placing it in the startup folder.
5. Do I need admin rights to add startup apps?
Usually, no. But some apps may require admin permissions, depending on their configuration.