How to disable apps from running at startup on Windows 11
Are tons of apps automatically launching every time you boot into Windows 11? Here’s what you can do.
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OnWindows 11, apps can register with the system to launch automatically during startup. They can also configure specific services to run in the background to perform certain tasks, including speeding up the app startup process.
Although this feature can be helpful for some applications you use frequently, you may end up with many apps and services running at startup, which can prolong the startup process and increase energy usage, draining the battery.
Whether you want to stopMicrosoft Teams, Spotify, the Xbox app, or any other app from launching automatically at boot, Windows 11 includes at least three ways to manage apps at startup, including using the Settings app, Task Manager, and the Startup folder.
In thishow-to guide, I will explain the different ways to disable apps at startup on your computer.
How to prevent apps launching at startup from Settings
To disable apps from running at startup on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the app will no longer start automatically as you sign in to your Windows 11 account.
How to prevent apps launching at startup from Task Manager
To block applications from launching automatically through Task Manager, use these steps:
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After you complete the steps, you may want to repeat the steps to disable other apps.
How to prevent apps launching at startup from Startup folder
In addition to registering with the system, some apps can place a shortcut in the"Startup"folder, a known folder that Windows scans every time the computer starts and runs any app it finds.
To disable startup apps on Windows 11 through the Startup folder, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the apps you removed from the “Startup” folder will no longer open automatically as you sign in to your account.
Although Windows 11 offers multiple ways to disable apps at startup, sometimes you may have to change the settings inside the application rather than in the system’s settings.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
