How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 11: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Adding programs to start automatically in Windows 11 is a handy trick that can save you heaps of time each morning. Basically, it means certain apps will launch on their own as soon as you turn on your PC—no need to open Chrome, Spotify, or whatever else you want ready to go. But here’s the thing: figuring out how to set it up isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes you just want a quick way to add something without digging through a bunch of menus. Other times, apps don’t want to start, or Windows makes it harder than it should be. This guide runs through a few easy methods so you can get your favourite programs firing up with Windows and maybe cut down on all the clicking around.

How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 11

Method 1: Use the Startup Folder

This is probably the easiest way for most of us and works well if you want specific apps to launch every time. The trick is going straight to where Windows checks what should run at startup—the Startup folder. It’s tucked away in the system, but easy enough to find. Why do it this way? Because dropping a shortcut in this folder is basically telling Windows, “Hey, run this app every time I boot up.” Just remember: it only works if the shortcut is spot-on and in the right spot.

Let’s run through the steps:

• First, find the program you want to add. If it’s not already a shortcut, right-click its executable file (.exe) and choose Send to > Desktop (create shortcut). Having a shortcut on the desktop is a good starting point — because of course, Windows makes it a bit trickier than it should be.
• Next, open the Run box with Windows + R, then type shell:startup and hit Enter. This opens the Startup folder for your profile. If you want a program to start for all users, use shell:common startup instead, but for most folks, this one does the trick.
• Finally, drag the shortcut from your desktop into that folder. Now, Windows will launch that app every time you turn on your PC. Some machines start it instantly, but others might need a restart or two for it to kick in.

Method 2: Use Task Manager

If you prefer a more visual way and want to tweak things without mucking about with shortcuts, the Task Manager is your mate. It’s designed to handle what runs at startup, and it’s handy to disable, enable, or even add programs if you like. Plus, it shows how much impact each startup item has—useful if your PC feels a bit sluggish.

Here’s how to do it:

• Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc or right-clicking the Taskbar and choosing Task Manager. On fresh installs, it might open in simple mode; click More details at the bottom to see all tabs.
• Head to the Startup tab. You’ll see all the apps set to launch at startup, along with their impact estimates. The impact ratings aren’t always spot-on, but they give a good idea of what might be slowing you down.
• To add a new program, usually you need to make a shortcut and throw it in the Startup folder, but you can also disable or enable existing ones here easily. If you want to add something new, create a shortcut and drop it into the startup folder as explained earlier.

Why bother? Because it’s quick, visual, and makes you think twice before piling in every app that comes with your install. On some setups, having too many apps start with Windows can slow things down, so keep that in mind.

Tips for Adding Programs to Startup in Windows 11

• Only add apps you really need to launch at startup—your PC doesn’t need a whole zoo of programs kicking off all at once.
• Check the impact ratings in Task Manager. If something’s slow to load, see if you can disable it.
• If a program doesn’t run at startup after you add it, double-check the shortcut is pointing to the right .exe and is in the right folder (shell:startup).
• Be careful with apps that require admin rights; they might not run smoothly without some extra fiddling.
• Remember, Windows sometimes doesn’t report impact perfectly, so test after adding new stuff to see how fast your PC boots.

FAQs

How can I disable a startup program in Windows 11?

Just open Task Manager, go to Startup, find what you want, and click Disable. Easy as. This helps if your PC takes ages to boot or’s getting cluttered up.

Can I add any program to startup?

Most, yeah. But some might need admin privileges or a special setup. Usually, just making a shortcut and dropping it in the startup folder does the trick.

What if a program doesn’t start even after I add it?

Check that the shortcut points to the right .exe and that it’s in shell:startup. Sometimes a restart is needed before it kicks in, but other times you might need to troubleshoot a bit.

Will having too many apps in startup slow my PC down?

Too right. Less is more here. Only add what you really need at boot, or your PC might chug along for ages.

How do I remove a program from the startup folder?

Just delete its shortcut from shell:startup. Done and dusted.

Summary

• Use Run with shell:startup to get into the folder.
• Create shortcuts to your apps and drop them in.
• Check in Task Manager for impact and disable anything you don’t need.
• Only add what’s necessary—too many will slow things down.
• Have a squiz now and then to tidy things up, don’t just set and forget.

Wrap-up

Slinging apps to start with Windows 11 can really make your day easier, especially if you rely on certain tools every day. The trick is balancing convenience with performance—don’t load your startup with every app you’ve got. The easiest way? Drop shortcuts into the Startup folder and keep an eye on impact with Task Manager. Sometimes, a quick restart or a toggle can do the trick. Just remember—Windows isn’t always straightforward, but a bit of effort can save you a mountain of clicking later. Hope this helps speed up your mornings!