How to Change Apps That Open on Startup in Windows 11: A Guide

By / September 20, 2025

Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)

  • Startup apps are programs that launch automatically when you boot your PC.

  • In Windows 11, you can manage them from Task Manager, Settings, or Startup folders.

  • Too many startup apps slow down boot time, so disabling unnecessary ones improves performance.

  • This guide covers all methods step by step, plus troubleshooting tips.

Introduction

Ever noticed your Windows 11 PC taking forever to start up? One common reason is that too many apps are set to launch at startup.

The good news? You have full control over which apps run when your PC boots. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to change apps that open on startup in Windows 11, using different methods so you can pick what works best.

What Are Startup Apps in Windows 11?

Startup apps are programs that automatically launch when you log into your account. Some are useful — like cloud storage apps (OneDrive, Dropbox) — while others just hog resources.

Think of them as guests at a party: some are welcome, but too many at once will overcrowd the room.

Why Should You Manage Startup Apps?

  • Faster boot times – fewer apps loading means quicker startup.

  • Better performance – more RAM and CPU available for what matters.

  • Fewer distractions – only the apps you actually need will open.

Methods to Change Apps That Open on Startup in Windows 11

Method 1: Use Windows Settings

This is the easiest way for most users.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

  2. Navigate to Apps > Startup.

  3. You’ll see a list of apps with toggles.

  4. Switch On/Off depending on what you want to enable or disable.

✅ Windows even shows the impact level (Low, Medium, High) for each app.

Method 2: Use Task Manager

Task Manager offers more details about startup impact.

Steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  2. Go to the Startup apps tab (in the sidebar).

  3. Right-click an app → choose Enable or Disable.

  4. Restart your PC to see changes.

💡 Pro tip: Focus on High impact apps if you want faster boot speeds.

Method 3: Manage Startup via Startup Folder

The Startup folder is a special directory that auto-launches shortcuts.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type:

    shell:startup

    and hit Enter.

  2. To add an app → copy its shortcut into this folder.

  3. To remove an app → delete its shortcut.

This method is great for adding custom programs you always want at startup.

Method 4: Change Startup Apps from Registry (Advanced)

⚠️ Only recommended for advanced users.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.

  2. Navigate to:

    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run

  3. On the right, you’ll see app entries.

  4. Right-click to delete an entry or add a new string value for another app.

Method 5: Use Third-Party Startup Managers

Tools like Autoruns or CCleaner provide extra control.

  • Autoruns (Microsoft Sysinternals) – detailed view of all startup entries.

  • CCleaner – beginner-friendly with one-click startup management.

Comparison Table: Best Methods

Method Difficulty Best For Risks
Settings Easy Beginners None
Task Manager Easy Seeing impact level None
Startup Folder Medium Adding/removing custom apps Low
Registry Editor Hard Advanced users Risk of errors
Third-Party Tools Medium Power users Must trust software

Which Apps Should You Disable on Startup?

Safe to disable:

  • Spotify, Steam, Discord (if you don’t use them daily).

  • Adobe Updater, Zoom, Skype (can be opened manually).

Better to keep enabled:

  • Antivirus software.

  • Cloud services (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox) if you use them.

  • Driver-related tools (graphics, audio).

Troubleshooting: Startup Apps Not Changing?

If an app still launches after disabling it:

  • Check if it’s scheduled in Task Scheduler.

  • Look in the app’s own settings (Preferences > Launch at startup).

  • Run a malware scan — some unwanted apps force themselves to start.

Pro Tips to Optimize Startup

  • Review startup apps once every few months.

  • Use Windows Performance Monitor to check boot time.

  • Enable Fast Startup (Settings > Power & battery > Additional power settings).

  • Keep only essential apps auto-starting.

Conclusion

Managing apps that open on startup in Windows 11 is one of the easiest ways to make your PC faster and smoother.

  • Beginners can use Settings or Task Manager.

  • Advanced users can dive into the Startup folder or Registry.

  • Disable apps you don’t need daily and keep essentials like security software running.

Take 5 minutes today to tweak your startup apps — your future self will thank you when your PC boots up lightning-fast.

FAQs

1. How do I stop Microsoft Teams from opening on startup in Windows 11?
Open Task Manager > Startup apps and disable Microsoft Teams.

2. Can disabling startup apps cause problems?
Not usually — just avoid disabling antivirus or essential drivers.

3. Where is the startup folder in Windows 11?
Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and hit Enter.

4. Why do some apps keep re-enabling themselves at startup?
They may have an internal setting to “Launch at startup.” Check inside the app’s preferences.

5. Does disabling startup apps improve gaming performance?
Yes — fewer background apps mean more resources available for games.

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