How To Add Programs To Startup Windows 11 Updated [2021]

| Old Method | Status in Updated Windows 11 | Replacement | |------------|-----------------------------|-------------| | Dragging .exe directly into Startup folder | ❌ Deprecated | Use a instead | | Adding via MSConfig’s Startup tab | ❌ Removed (redirects to Settings) | Use Settings or Startup Folder | | Registry Run key (HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run) | ✅ Still works (advanced) | Manually create a String Value with path to .exe | | VBS scripts at startup | ⚠️ Blocked by default | Convert to PowerShell script or .exe wrapper |

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| Aspect | Positive | Negative | |--------|----------|----------| | | Frequently used apps load faster | Multiple heavy apps (Adobe, browsers, IDEs) increase boot time by 30-60 seconds | | Memory Usage | Reduces manual launch time | Can consume 1-4 GB of RAM before user interaction | | Security | N/A | Malware often adds itself to startup keys. Regularly audit shell:startup and Registry Run keys. | | User Experience | Seamless workflow for daily tools | Cluttered system tray and notification area | how to add programs to startup windows 11 updated

In the 22H2 and 23H2 updates, Microsoft successfully migrated startup management from the archaic Task Manager tab into the main Settings app ( Settings > Apps > Startup ). This is a significant UX improvement. The interface presents a simple toggle list, making it incredibly easy for the average user to identify high-impact apps and disable them.

How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 11 (Updated May 2026) | Old Method | Status in Updated Windows

Open your Startup folder (via shell:startup ) and move this new shortcut there. Method 3: Managing Startup Apps via Windows Settings

Navigate to Apps > Startup (In some 2025 builds, it’s under System > Startup – use the search bar and type "Startup Apps" to be safe). | | User Experience | Seamless workflow for

Note: Windows 11 lists a "Startup Impact" measurement (Low, Medium, or High) next to each app. Enabling too many "High Impact" apps will noticeably slow down your computer's boot time.

For power users who need granular control, the Windows Registry is the ultimate configuration database. Modifying registry keys allows you to add startup entries that are not available through standard methods. However, a word of caution: editing the registry incorrectly can cause system instability. Therefore, with this method.

Pro-Tip: If you want to delay the startup to prevent system lag, double-click your newly created task in the library, go to the tab, click Edit , and check the box for Delay task for to choose a time (e.g., 30 seconds). Best Practices for Managing Windows 11 Startup Programs