How to Add Startup Apps in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re tired of manually opening the same apps every time you power on your computer, you’re not alone. Windows 11 makes it simple to manage which applications start automatically when your PC boots up. Whether it’s Spotify for your morning playlist, Slack for work, or your favorite productivity tools, adding startup apps can save you time and hassle.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to add startup apps in Windows 11 step by step, along with tips, tricks, and troubleshooting to make the most of your startup settings.

Table of Contents

Why Add Apps to Startup in Windows 11?

Have you ever noticed how some apps open automatically when you log into Windows? That’s because they’ve been added to the startup list. By customizing this list, you can:

Save time by automating essential apps.
Improve productivity by having tools ready as soon as you boot up.
Personalize your PC to match your workflow.

Of course, the wrong apps can also slow down your boot time, so you’ll want to choose wisely.

Methods to Add Startup Apps in Windows 11

There isn’t just one way to add startup apps. Windows 11 gives you multiple options, depending on your preferences. Let’s dive into each one.

Method 1: Add Apps via Windows Settings

Windows Settings provides a straightforward way to control startup programs.

Step 1: Open Settings

Press Win + I to open the Settings app.

Step 2: Navigate to Apps

Go to Apps > Startup.

Step 3: Enable Your Desired Apps

Find the app you want in the list.
Toggle the switch On to add it to startup.

Pro tip: Not all apps appear here—only the ones registered for startup through installation.

Method 2: Use the Startup Folder

The Startup folder is a classic Windows trick that still works in Windows 11.

Step 1: Open Run Command

Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and hit Enter.

Step 2: Add App Shortcuts

Copy and paste a shortcut of your desired program into the folder.
The app will now automatically launch when Windows starts.

This method works best for apps that don’t show up in the Settings > Startup section.

Method 3: Add Apps with Task Manager

Task Manager isn’t just for killing unresponsive apps—it also controls startup items.

Step 1: Open Task Manager

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc or right-click the taskbar and choose Task Manager.

Step 2: Go to Startup Apps

Click the Startup Apps tab.

Step 3: Enable the App

Find your app in the list.
Right-click it and select Enable.

Method 4: Registry Editor (Advanced Users)

If you’re comfortable tweaking system settings, you can use the Registry Editor.

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 and select New > String Value.
Enter the program’s name and its file path.

⚠️ Caution: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system issues. Always back up before making changes.

Method 5: Task Scheduler Method

Want more control over when your apps open? Task Scheduler can help.

Step 1: Open Task Scheduler

Press Win + S and search for Task Scheduler.

Step 2: Create a New Task

Click Create Basic Task and give it a name.

Step 3: Set Trigger

Choose When I log on as the trigger.

Step 4: Set Action

Select Start a program and browse to the app’s .exe file.

This method lets you add delays or conditions for startup apps.

Best Practices for Adding Startup Apps

Adding startup apps is convenient—but too many can bog down your PC. Here are some tips:

Only add essentials: Keep startup items limited to productivity apps, security tools, or communication platforms.
Check system impact: Some apps may slow down boot time significantly.
Use lightweight alternatives: If possible, choose lighter apps for startup.

How to Remove Startup Apps in Windows 11

What if you’ve added too many apps and your PC feels sluggish? Removing them is just as simple.

Open Settings > Apps > Startup.
Toggle the switch Off for unnecessary apps.
Or, delete shortcuts from the Startup folder.

Troubleshooting: Why Won’t My App Start Automatically?

Sometimes, even after adding an app to startup, it doesn’t launch. Here’s why:

The app requires administrator permissions.
The shortcut path is broken.
Windows Startup settings are disabled.

Fix: Try running the app as an administrator or re-adding the shortcut.

Pros and Cons of Adding Startup Apps

Like most features, startup apps come with both benefits and drawbacks.

Pros

Saves time and effort.
Ensures critical apps (antivirus, VPN, etc.) launch automatically.
Enhances productivity.

Cons

Too many startup apps = slow boot times.
Background apps may consume resources.
Some apps may conflict or crash on startup.

Examples of Useful Startup Apps

Here are a few apps that make sense to add to startup:

Microsoft Teams or Slack (for work).
Spotify or iTunes (for music lovers).
Antivirus software (for security).
OneDrive or Google Drive (for file syncing).
Clipboard managers (for productivity).

Should You Add Every App to Startup?

Definitely not! Think of startup apps like guests at a dinner party—you only want the important ones there. Adding too many can crowd the table and ruin the experience.

Performance Impact of Startup Apps

Startup apps run in the background and consume system resources. The more apps you add, the longer it takes for Windows to boot up. To keep things smooth:

Limit startup apps to 3–5 essentials.
Periodically review your startup list.
Disable apps that you don’t use regularly.

Alternative: Use Third-Party Tools

If you prefer extra control, tools like Autoruns from Microsoft Sysinternals give advanced visibility into all startup processes. These tools let you manage hidden services, drivers, and scheduled tasks that affect boot speed.

Conclusion

Adding startup apps in Windows 11 is a great way to streamline your workflow and save valuable time. From using the Settings app and Startup folder to advanced methods like the Registry Editor or Task Scheduler, you have plenty of options to control which apps launch automatically.

Just remember: moderation is key. While startup apps can improve productivity, adding too many can hurt your system performance. Stick to the essentials, review your startup list regularly, and enjoy a smoother, faster Windows 11 experience.

FAQs

1. Can I add any app to startup in Windows 11?
Yes, almost any app can be added, either through the Settings app, Startup folder, or Task Scheduler.

2. Why is my startup slow after adding apps?
Too many startup apps consume memory and CPU resources, slowing down boot time.

3. Is it safe to add apps to startup?
Yes, as long as you’re adding trusted apps. Avoid unknown or unnecessary software.

4. How do I stop an app from starting automatically?
Go to Settings > Apps > Startup and toggle it off, or remove its shortcut from the Startup folder.

5. What’s the easiest way to add an app to startup?
Using the Startup folder is the simplest method—just drop in the app’s shortcut.