When you start up your PC, does it feel like apps are racing to open before you’ve even had a chance to breathe? You’re not alone. Many programs in Windows 11 launch automatically, and while some of them are useful, others are just plain annoying.
This guide will walk you through step-by-step methods to stop apps from opening automatically on Windows 11. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to take control of your startup apps and speed up your boot time.
Why Do Apps Open Automatically in Windows 11?
Windows 11 allows certain apps to run as soon as you log in. This happens because:
- Apps add themselves to the Startup list by default.
- Some services run in the background for faster access.
- Updates or installations enable auto-launch.
While useful for apps like antivirus software, most just slow down your computer.
Why Should You Disable Automatic Startup Apps?
Here are some reasons you might want to stop them:
- Faster boot times – fewer apps running at startup means quicker logins.
- Better performance – free up memory and CPU for apps you actually use.
- More control – only run apps when you need them.
- Less clutter – no distractions the moment you log in.
Think of it as decluttering your digital workspace.
Method 1: Stop Startup Apps via Settings
The Settings app in Windows 11 is the simplest way.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Windows + I.
Step 2: Go to Apps
From the left sidebar, select Apps.
Step 3: Choose Startup
Click on Startup.
Step 4: Disable Apps
You’ll see a list of apps with toggles. Simply switch OFF the ones you don’t want starting automatically.
Method 2: Use Task Manager
Task Manager gives you more control and shows the startup impact.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup Apps tab.
- Right-click an app and choose Disable.
- Restart your computer to confirm the changes.
Method 3: Disable Startup Apps from App Settings
Some apps have built-in settings for startup.
- Open the app (e.g., Spotify, Discord, or Zoom).
- Head to Settings → General → Startup.
- Turn off the “Open at login” option.
This method works best for apps that like to sneak back into startup after updates.
Method 4: Manage Startup Apps via Windows Startup Folder
The Startup folder contains shortcuts to programs that launch when Windows boots.
- Press Windows + R.
- Type
shell:startupand hit Enter. - Delete shortcuts for apps you don’t want to auto-start.
Pro tip: You can also add apps here if you do want them to start automatically.
Method 5: Use Registry Editor (Advanced Users Only)
⚠️ Warning: Be careful—editing the registry can break system functionality if done incorrectly.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run - Find the app entry and delete it.
- Restart your computer.
This permanently removes apps from startup.
Method 6: Disable Services from System Configuration
Some background services trigger apps to open.
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and hit Enter. - Go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services (so you don’t disable system-critical ones).
- Uncheck unnecessary services and click Apply.
Method 7: Use Group Policy Editor (Pro Users)
If you have Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, Group Policy can help.
- Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → System → Logon - Configure settings to prevent certain apps from auto-launching.
Method 8: Third-Party Tools for Startup Management
If Windows tools feel limited, third-party apps give extra control. Popular ones include:
- Autoruns by Microsoft Sysinternals – full visibility into startup items.
- CCleaner – manage startup apps and clean system junk.
- Glary Utilities – all-in-one optimization tool.
These tools make it easy to see hidden startup processes.
Which Apps Should You Disable?
Not sure what’s safe to disable? Here’s a quick guide:
✅ Safe to disable:
- Spotify
- Microsoft Teams
- Steam
- Zoom
- OneDrive (if you don’t use it)
❌ Keep enabled:
- Antivirus/Firewall
- Windows Security
- Drivers (graphics, audio, etc.)
How to Check the Impact of Startup Apps
Task Manager shows the Startup Impact column, ranking apps as:
- High Impact – slows boot significantly
- Medium Impact – noticeable effect
- Low Impact – barely affects performance
Focus on disabling High Impact apps first.
What Happens If You Disable Everything?
Your computer will still work fine, but:
- Some apps may take longer to open when you launch them manually.
- Useful background features (like cloud sync or auto-updates) may stop.
It’s about balance—disable only what you don’t need.
Troubleshooting: Apps Keep Re-Enabling Themselves
Some stubborn apps (like Chrome, Spotify, and Teams) might re-enable after updates.
Fix:
- Disable inside the app’s own settings.
- Check Task Scheduler (some apps add tasks to auto-launch).
- Use third-party tools to monitor changes.
Metaphor Time
Think of startup apps like passengers on a bus. The fewer passengers you have at the start, the faster the bus leaves the station. Too many, and your PC struggles to get going.
Conclusion
Stopping apps from opening automatically on Windows 11 isn’t rocket science—it’s about knowing where to look and flipping the right switches.
You can use Settings, Task Manager, Startup Folder, Registry Editor, or even third-party tools to take back control. By trimming unnecessary apps, your PC will start faster, feel smoother, and stay clutter-free.
FAQs
1. How do I see which apps open on startup in Windows 11?
Go to Settings → Apps → Startup or check Task Manager under the Startup tab.
2. Will disabling startup apps improve performance?
Yes, it reduces boot time and frees up system resources.
3. Can I stop OneDrive from opening on startup?
Yes, open OneDrive → Settings → General → uncheck “Start OneDrive automatically when I sign in.”
4. What’s the safest method for beginners?
Using Settings → Startup is the easiest and safest method.
5. Do startup apps affect gaming performance?
Indirectly—fewer background apps mean more RAM and CPU for gaming.