Startup programs are applications that automatically run when you turn on your computer. While some startup programs are useful, such as antivirus software, others can slow down your PC, consume system resources, and delay boot time.
Disabling unnecessary startup programs can improve system performance, reduce lag, and make Windows start faster. In this guide, you’ll learn how to disable startup programs in Windows 10 and Windows 11, including built-in methods, Task Manager techniques, and third-party tools.
What Are Startup Programs?
Startup programs are software that launch automatically when Windows boots up. Common examples include:
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Cloud storage apps (OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive)
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Messaging apps (Skype, Zoom, Microsoft Teams)
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System utilities (printer software, audio drivers)
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Software updaters (Adobe Updater, Java Updater)
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Third-party apps (Spotify, antivirus programs, games launchers)
While some are necessary for smooth operation, too many startup programs can cause slower boot times and consume CPU and memory.
Benefits of Disabling Startup Programs
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Faster Boot Times – Windows starts more quickly without unnecessary apps launching.
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Improved Performance – Frees up RAM and CPU for other tasks.
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Reduced Background Clutter – Fewer apps running reduces distractions.
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Longer Battery Life – On laptops, fewer startup apps reduce power consumption.
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Easier Troubleshooting – Isolating problematic programs becomes easier.
How to Check Startup Programs in Windows
Before disabling startup programs, it’s good to see which apps launch at startup:
- Click the Startup tab
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Here, you’ll see:
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Name: The app name
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Publisher: The company that made the app
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Status: Enabled or Disabled
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Startup Impact: High, Medium, or Low
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Tip: High-impact programs are the ones that slow down your startup the most.
How to Disable Startup Programs in Windows 10
Method 1: Using Task Manager
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Click the Startup tab
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Right-click the program you want to disable → Disable
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Restart your PC to apply changes
Tip: Disabling a program does not uninstall it; it simply prevents it from starting automatically.
Method 2: Using Settings App
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Press Windows + I to open Settings
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Go to Apps → Startup
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Toggle the switch to Off for apps you don’t want at startup
Benefits: This method is user-friendly and shows recommended apps for startups.
Method 3: Using System Configuration (msconfig)
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Press Windows + R → type msconfig → Enter
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Go to the Startup tab → Click Open Task Manager
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Disable unwanted startup programs
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Click OK → Restart your PC
Tip: This method works well for older Windows versions and gives access to advanced boot options.
How to Disable Startup Programs in Windows 11
Windows 11 has a similar process but with updated interfaces:
Method 1: Using Task Manager
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Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Open Task Manager
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Click the Startup apps tab
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Select programs you want to disable → Click Disable
Method 2: Using Settings App
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Press Windows + I → Apps → Startup
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Toggleofff the apps you don’t want to launch at startup
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Review the Startup impact column to prioritize high-impact apps
Tip: Windows 11 allows you to see startup impact directly in Settings, making it easier to manage.
Third-Party Tools to Manage Startup Programs
If you want more control, several third-party tools help manage startup programs:
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CCleaner – Allows disabling startup apps and cleaning system junk
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Autoruns – Advanced tool for managing all startup entries
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Glary Utilities – Manage startup, optimize Windows, and improve boot time
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Advanced SystemCare – Offers one-click startup management
Tip: Be cautious with third-party tools and download only from official websites.
Programs You Should Usually Keep Enabled
While disabling startup programs improves performance, some programs should remain enabled:
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Antivirus/Antimalware software – Protects your system
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System utilities/drivers – Audio drivers, display drivers, printer software
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Cloud storage apps you use daily – OneDrive or Google Drive for backup
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Essential communication apps – Teams, Slack, or Zoom, if used regularly
Tip: Avoid disabling programs if you’re unsure about their purpose—research them online first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Disabling Antivirus Software – Can leave your PC unprotected
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Disabling System Services – Some startup apps are essential for Windows functions
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Disabling Updates – Programs like Adobe Updater are safe; you may want them for security
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Disabling Everything at Once – Disable apps gradually to see the impact on boot time
Advanced Tips for Startup Optimization
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Use Task Manager Startup Impact: Focus on high-impact programs first
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Delay Startup Apps: Some third-party tools allow delaying apps to launch after Windows boots
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Regularly Review Startup Programs: New software installs may automatically add themselves
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Combine Startup Optimization with Disk Cleanup: Improves overall performance
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Monitor Resource Usage: Check Task Manager → Startup Impact + CPU/RAM usage
How Disabling Startup Programs Affects Your PC
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Boot Time: Faster boot times and less waiting for Windows to load
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Performance: More RAM and CPU available for active programs
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Battery Life: Laptops may last longer per charge
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Security: Fewer unnecessary apps running in the background reduces vulnerabilities
How to Re-Enable Startup Programs
If you disabled a program and want it back:
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Open Task Manager → Startup tab
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Right-click the app → Enable
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Alternatively, use Settings → Apps → Startup and toggle it back on
Tip: Re-enable only programs you trust or need regularly.
Conclusion
Disabling startup programs in Windows is a simple yet powerful way to improve performance, reduce boot times, and declutter your PC. Using Task Manager, Settings, or third-party tools, you can control which apps launch automatically without uninstalling them.
By reviewing startup programs regularly and disabling unnecessary apps, you ensure your PC runs smoothly and efficiently, whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Remember to keep essential apps like antivirus software enabled, and combine startup management with regular maintenance like disk cleanup and driver updates for the best performance.
