If you’re looking to speed up your computer’s boot time or simply reduce clutter, changing which apps open on startup in Windows 11 is a great place to start. This guide will show you how to control these startup apps in just a few simple steps.
How to Change What Apps Open on Startup in Windows 11
In this section, you’ll learn how to manage and change the applications that automatically start when your Windows 11 computer boots up. This can lead to a faster, more streamlined experience.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Start menu and click on “Settings.”
The Settings app is your control center; it’s where you can tweak nearly every aspect of your computer. You’ll often find yourself returning here for various tasks, including managing startup apps.
Step 2: Navigate to Apps
In the Settings window, select “Apps” from the sidebar.
Under the Apps section, you get a plethora of options related to your installed applications. This is where you can uninstall programs, manage defaults, and, importantly, handle startup items.
Step 3: Go to Startup
Click on “Startup” located in the Apps menu.
Now, you’re in the Startup section. This area lists all the applications that are configured to start when your computer boots. You might be surprised at how many apps are on this list!
Step 4: Toggle Apps On or Off
Toggle the switch next to each app to turn it on or off.
Each application will have a switch next to it. Turning the switch off will prevent that app from starting automatically when you boot up your computer. This can dramatically improve your startup time and overall system performance.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your computer to apply the changes.
A quick restart will ensure that the changes you’ve made take effect. When your computer boots back up, you should notice that the apps you toggled off no longer open automatically.
After completing these steps, your computer should boot faster and feel less cluttered. You’ve just taken control of what apps get to start alongside your system, giving you a leaner startup experience.
Tips for Changing What Apps Open on Startup in Windows 11
- Disable only what you recognize: Be cautious about disabling apps you don’t recognize, as they might be essential system processes.
- Prioritize resource-heavy apps: Focus on disabling apps that consume a lot of resources, like games or large software suites.
- Periodically review the list: New apps you install may automatically add themselves to the startup list; make it a habit to review this periodically.
- Use Task Manager for more control: For more advanced options, you can also manage startup apps via the Task Manager.
- Create a backup: Before making significant changes, it’s a good idea to create a system restore point in case something goes wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions about Changing What Apps Open on Startup in Windows 11
What apps should I disable on startup?
Disable non-essential apps, especially those that are resource-heavy or that you don’t use daily.
Will disabling startup apps speed up my computer?
Yes, fewer startup apps can result in a faster boot time and improved performance.
Can I re-enable apps later?
Absolutely, you can re-enable any app at any time by toggling the switch back on in the Startup settings.
Do I need to restart my computer after changing startup apps?
A restart is recommended to ensure that the changes take effect and to see the impact on boot time.
Is it safe to disable all startup apps?
No, some apps are essential for system stability and security. Only disable apps you recognize and know are non-essential.
Summary of Steps
- Open Start menu and click on Settings.
- Select Apps from the sidebar.
- Click on Startup.
- Toggle the switch next to each app.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to change what apps open on startup in Windows 11 can significantly impact your computer’s performance and boot time. It’s a simple yet effective way to take control of your system, ensuring that only the necessary applications run when you start your computer. Regularly checking your startup apps can help you maintain a smooth and efficient Windows experience. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other Windows 11 features to optimize your system further. 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.