How To Add Programs To Startup Windows 11 Updated Repack Jun 2026

If a program does not appear in the Settings list, you must manually add a shortcut to the Windows Startup folder .

This method is best for common apps that Windows already recognizes. Windows Settings app by pressing

Note: You will need Administrator privileges on the PC to paste files into this specific system location.

How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 11 (2026 Updated Guide) how to add programs to startup windows 11 updated

Have any stubborn programs that refuse to auto-start? Drop a comment below (or ask your favorite tech community) – the solutions are almost always in Task Scheduler or the Registry Run keys.

Press Windows + I to open Settings .

Are you tired of manually launching your favorite programs every time you start your Windows 11 computer? Adding programs to the startup list can save you time and increase your productivity. In this article, we will walk you through the updated steps on , ensuring that you can easily launch your essential applications with just a few clicks. If a program does not appear in the

Using the application's built-in preference is highly recommended, as it often allows the app to start cleanly in the background or system tray without popping up a massive window on your screen. Method 4: Add All-User Startup Programs (Advanced)

Programs that require admin privileges will when launched from the Startup Folder.

For users requiring more granular control—such as adding a program with a delay, with administrative privileges, or on a specific schedule—the offers the most sophisticated solution. Built into Windows 11 for advanced system administration, Task Scheduler allows the creation of a task triggered "At log on." To add a program here, the user opens Task Scheduler from the Start menu, clicks "Create Basic Task," and follows the wizard. After naming the task, the trigger is set to "When I log on." The action is set to "Start a program," where the user then browses to the application’s .exe file. The true power of this method lies in the additional options available: the user can check "Run with highest privileges" for programs that require admin rights, set a delay (e.g., "Delay task for 30 seconds") to prevent startup congestion, or even set conditions to only run the program if the computer is on AC power. While overkill for simple needs, Task Scheduler is indispensable for managing system utilities, custom scripts, or any application that requires a specific execution context at login. How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows

Note: You will need administrative permissions for this action. How to Verify Your Startup Programs To make sure your programs have been added successfully:

This method works for applications that have a built-in startup task registered with Windows. Start menu and select Navigate to

Many popular third-party tools—such as Discord, Spotify, Steam, Slack, and cloud storage clients like Google Drive—include a native startup toggle within their own preferences. Launch the specific software application.

Right-click on the program file and select (or Copy as path if needed).

Before we begin, it's important to understand how Windows 11 handles the apps that launch when you log in. Startup programs are any applications, services, or background processes designed to begin running the moment you sign in. They’re not tied to when your PC powers on, but specifically to when your user profile loads.