Windows 11 Autostart Folder Exclusive (2026 Update)

Open the User-Specific folder ( shell:startup in Run) and paste the shortcut. 3. How to Disable Programs in the Startup Folder

Red flags to watch for:

Don't overload these folders. Every shortcut you add increases your "Time to Desktop." Keep it lean, keep it fast!

is a common "power user" alternative to trigger apps instantly at login. Performance Monitoring : If your PC feels slow, use the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) under the Startup apps windows 11 autostart folder exclusive

%AppData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

Prerequisites

Find the program you want to autostart in your Start Menu or installation folder. Open the User-Specific folder ( shell:startup in Run)

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run (All Users)

Type shell:startup and press to open the current user folder.

to see a list of all apps configured to run at login and toggle them on or off. Microsoft Support Are you trying to prevent a specific app from starting, or are you looking for a way to force only certain apps How do I disable autostart apps on Windows 11? Every shortcut you add increases your "Time to Desktop

Conversely, if your computer is slow to start, removing unnecessary items from this folder is the best fix. Open the Startup folder ( shell:startup in Run).

Right-click any app and select to stop it from launching.

Some autostart entries—particularly those added via registry or Task Scheduler—will not appear in the Task Manager Startup tab. Check alternative locations: