When you start your Windows 11 PC, some apps launch automatically in the background. These are called startup programs. While a few (like antivirus software or cloud storage sync tools) are useful, many are unnecessary, consume system resources, and can slow down your computer’s boot time. Over time, too many startup apps can significantly slow down the computer’s startup time and overall performance. However, you can manage startup programs through Windows settings or Task Manager to disable non-essential applications and improve your PC’s speed. Windows 11 offers multiple ways to disable startup programs that speed up the boot time of your computer. Let’s get started.
Why Disable Startup Programs in Windows 11?
Startup programs are applications that launch automatically when you log into Windows. Startup programs are launched from the Windows 11 startup folder, located at the following path: C:\Users\Username\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup.
Disabling startup programs in Windows 11 primarily speeds up boot times and improves overall system performance. By reducing the number of applications that launch automatically when you start your computer, you save system resources like CPU, memory, and disk usage, which makes your PC start faster.
- Faster Boot Time – Fewer apps running at startup means your PC loads quicker.
- Better Performance – Reduces unnecessary memory and CPU usage.
- Longer Battery Life – On laptops, fewer background apps mean less power drain.
- More Control – You decide which apps run automatically, instead of everything launching by default.
Disable Startup Programs via Task Manager
Task Manager gives you direct control over which apps run when Windows starts. It also shows the startup impact of each app, so you know which ones slow your PC the most.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Alternatively, you can right-click the Start button and select Task Manager.
- In Task Manager, click on the Startup apps tab (if it’s not visible, click More details first).
- You’ll see a list of all apps configured to run at startup. Next to each app, you’ll find a column called Startup impact (Low, Medium, High).
- Select an app you don’t want to start automatically. Right-click it and choose Disable, or click the Disable button at the bottom-right corner.
- Repeat for other unnecessary apps. Restart your computer to see the difference in startup speed.
This method is recommended for most users, since it’s safe, quick, and doesn’t affect the app itself—you can still open it manually later.
Disable Startup Apps from Windows Settings
Windows 11 has a dedicated Startup settings page with a simple on/off toggle for each app.
- Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
- From the left sidebar, click Apps, then Select Startup from the options.
- Here, you’ll see a list of apps that start automatically when you log in. Each app has a toggle switch. You’ll also see the Startup impact rating (None, Low, Medium, High).
- Turn the toggle off for apps you don’t want to run at startup.
- Restart your PC to apply changes.
Remove Apps from the Startup Folder
Some apps add shortcuts in the Windows Startup folder, which forces them to launch every time you boot. Deleting these shortcuts prevents them from auto-launching.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Here in the field, type shell:startup, and then press the Enter key to open the Startup folder.
- Look for shortcuts of programs you don’t want to launch automatically.
- Right-click and delete those shortcuts. Restart your PC.
Manage Startup Programs with System Configuration (MSConfig)
MSConfig also lets you disable not just startup apps, but also background services. It’s more advanced and helps if you suspect services are slowing your PC.
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check the box Hide all Microsoft services (important to avoid disabling essential Windows processes).
- Review the list of third-party services.
- Uncheck services you don’t need (like updater services or unnecessary background apps).
- Click Apply > OK. Restart your PC to apply changes.
Use this method only if you’re comfortable managing services, since disabling the wrong ones may affect apps you use.
Which Startup Programs Are Safe to Disable?
While every user’s setup is different, this is the most common question.
Generally Safe to Disable:
- Game Launchers: Steam, Epic Games Launcher, EA App. You can always open them manually when you want to play a game.
- Music/Media Apps: Spotify, iTunes Helper.
- Communication Apps: Discord, Slack, Teams (if you don’t need them immediately upon login).
- Cloud Storage Sync Clients: OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox. Disabling them at startup means you’ll have to open them manually to sync files. If you need constant syncing, leave them enabled.
- Updaters: Adobe Updater, Google Update, etc. Windows and your apps will still update without these running constantly.
Consider Keeping Enabled:
- Antivirus/Security Software: Your primary antivirus (e.g., Windows Security, Bitdefender, Norton) should always be enabled to protect your system from the moment it starts.
- Essential Hardware Drivers: Audio managers (e.g., Realtek HD Audio Manager) or graphics card control panels (NVIDIA Control Panel, AMD Software) are usually low-impact and can be left enabled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is it safe to disable startup programs in Windows 11?
Yes, disabling non-essential apps is safe and recommended. Just avoid turning off security tools like antivirus software.
2. Which method is best for beginners?
The Settings app is the easiest and safest way. Advanced users can use Task Manager or MSConfig for more control.
3. Will disabling startup programs speed up my PC?
Yes. It can significantly reduce boot time and improve performance, especially on older PCs.
4. Can I re-enable a startup app later?
Yes. Simply go back to Task Manager or Settings and switch the app back to Enable.
5. Do disabled startup apps stop working completely?
No. They just won’t launch automatically on startup—you can still open them manually anytime.
