Adding an app to startup in Windows 11 is a straightforward process. All you need to do is access the Startup folder, place a shortcut of your desired application there, and voilà—your app will launch automatically every time Windows boots up. Let’s walk through this in detail.
How to Add App to Startup Windows 11
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to add any application to the startup routine of Windows 11. This ensures that your favorite or necessary apps are ready to go as soon as your PC starts.
Step 1: Open the Run Dialog Box
Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
The Run dialog box is a quick way to access various tools and folders in Windows. By pressing Windows + R, you can swiftly navigate to the Startup folder.
Step 2: Type “shell:startup” and Press Enter
Type shell:startup into the Run dialog box and hit Enter.
Typing shell:startup opens the Startup folder directly. This folder contains shortcuts to all the programs that run when Windows starts.
Step 3: Create a Shortcut of the App
Find the application you want to add to startup. Right-click its icon, select “Create shortcut,” and drag this shortcut into the Startup folder.
Creating a shortcut of the application ensures that Windows will run this specific shortcut during startup, rather than moving the entire app to a new location.
Step 4: Verify the Shortcut is in the Startup Folder
Double-check that the shortcut of your desired application is now in the Startup folder.
Confirming the shortcut is in the correct place ensures that your app will indeed launch at startup. If the shortcut isn’t there, the app won’t run when Windows boots up.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
A restart is necessary to see if the app launches as expected. This final step confirms that everything is set up correctly.
After completing these steps, the application you added should automatically start whenever you boot up your Windows 11 computer. This can be especially useful for productivity tools or any software you find essential for daily use.
Tips for Adding App to Startup Windows 11
- Tip 1: Only add essential apps to startup. Too many startup apps can slow down your PC’s boot time.
- Tip 2: Regularly review and manage your startup apps to keep your system running smoothly.
- Tip 3: Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to disable or enable startup apps quickly.
- Tip 4: Ensure the app doesn’t require admin rights to run; otherwise, you might need to adjust its permissions.
- Tip 5: For a cleaner setup, avoid placing large applications in the startup folder, as they can consume significant system resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Startup folder in Windows 11?
The Startup folder contains shortcuts to programs that run automatically when Windows starts. It helps users ensure essential programs are ready right after login.
How do I access the Startup folder in Windows 11?
You can access the Startup folder by pressing Windows + R, typing shell:startup, and pressing Enter. This quick command takes you directly to the folder.
Can adding too many apps to startup slow down my computer?
Yes, adding too many applications to startup can slow down your computer’s boot time. It’s best to add only essential apps to maintain performance.
How do I remove an app from startup in Windows 11?
To remove an app, go to the Startup folder and delete the shortcut of the app you no longer want to run at startup. You can also disable it via Task Manager.
Are there other ways to add apps to startup besides the Startup folder?
Yes, you can also use Task Manager to enable or disable startup apps, or adjust settings directly within some applications to run at startup.
Summary
- Press
Windows + Rto open the Run dialog box. - Type
shell:startupand press Enter. - Create a shortcut of the app and drag it into the Startup folder.
- Verify the shortcut is in the Startup folder.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Adding an app to startup in Windows 11 is a breeze once you know the steps. By following our guide, you can ensure that important applications are up and running as soon as your computer starts. This can save you time and streamline your workflow, especially if you rely on certain programs daily.
Remember, while it’s tempting to add all your favorite apps to startup, it’s best to exercise some restraint. Too many startup apps can lead to longer boot times and decreased performance. Regularly review and manage your startup items to keep your PC running in tip-top shape.
If you enjoyed this guide on how to add app to startup Windows 11, why not explore other Windows tips and tricks? Mastering your operating system can make daily tasks more efficient and enjoyable. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.