Adding programs to startup in Windows 10 makes them launch automatically when you start your computer. This can be super handy for regularly used apps. Here’s how you can do it in a few simple steps: find the program, copy its shortcut, and paste it into the Windows startup folder.
Step by Step Tutorial to Add Program to Startup Windows 10
We’re going to guide you through the basic steps to add a program to startup in Windows 10. This will ensure your program starts automatically each time you boot up your computer.
Step 1: Find the program
First, locate the program you want to add to startup.
Open the Start menu, search for the program, and right-click on it to find its file location.
Step 2: Create a shortcut
Right-click on the program’s file and select “Create shortcut.”
This action duplicates the program’s file and creates an easy-access shortcut.
Step 3: Copy the shortcut
Right-click on the newly created shortcut and select “Copy.”
This prepares the shortcut to be pasted into the startup folder.
Step 4: Open the startup folder
Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and hit Enter.
This command opens the startup folder where you will paste the shortcut.
Step 5: Paste the shortcut
Right-click inside the startup folder and select “Paste.”
Your program’s shortcut is now added to the startup folder, ensuring it launches automatically on startup.
Once these steps are completed, your chosen program will automatically open whenever you start Windows 10. This can save you the hassle of manually opening it each time you log in.
Tips for Adding Program to Startup Windows 10
- Check the Impact: Verify that the program doesn’t significantly slow down your startup process.
- Manage Startup Items: Use Task Manager to enable/disable startup items if needed.
- Keep Shortcuts Organized: Name your shortcuts clearly to easily manage them later.
- Use the Right Programs: Only include essential programs to avoid clutter.
- Monitor Performance: If you notice a slowdown, re-evaluate the programs in your startup folder.
Frequently Asked Questions about Adding Program to Startup Windows 10
How can I remove a program from startup?
Simply delete the shortcut from the startup folder to prevent it from launching on startup.
Can I add multiple programs to startup?
Yes, you can add as many programs as you like, but be mindful of potential performance impacts.
What if the program doesn’t start automatically?
Double-check that the shortcut is correctly placed in the startup folder and that it’s not disabled in Task Manager.
Is there a difference between the user startup folder and the common startup folder?
Yes, the user startup folder affects only the current user, while the common startup folder affects all users on the computer.
How do I access the common startup folder?
Press Win + R, type shell:common startup, and press Enter to open the common startup folder.
Summary
- Find the program.
- Create a shortcut.
- Copy the shortcut.
- Open the startup folder.
- Paste the shortcut.
Conclusion
Adding a program to startup in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can enhance your productivity. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your frequently used applications are ready to go as soon as your computer boots up. Remember to keep your startup folder organized and manage your startup items wisely to maintain optimal performance.
For those looking to dive deeper, consider exploring how different startup items impact your system’s boot time or how advanced startup management tools can give you even more control. 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.