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How To Add Exe File To Startup Windows 11 Better Jun 2026

To remove a program later, just open shell:startup again and delete its shortcut.

| Issue | Solution | |--------|----------| | Program doesn't start | Check if it requires administrator rights – use Method 2 (Task Scheduler) with "Run with highest privileges." | | PC starts too slowly | Avoid adding too many startup programs. Disable unnecessary ones via > Startup apps . | | Add for all users | Use shell:common startup (Run dialog) instead of shell:startup . This requires admin rights. | | Delay startup | In Task Scheduler, add a Delay in the task’s Triggers > Edit > Delay task for (e.g., 30 seconds). | how to add exe file to startup windows 11

💡 Always use shortcuts in the Startup folder rather than moving the actual EXE file. Moving the EXE can break the program because it loses access to its supporting library files in its original folder. If you run into any trouble, let me know: Does the app require administrator permission ? Is the app a third-party EXE or a Windows Store app ? To remove a program later, just open shell:startup

Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run Right-click in the right pane, select New > String Value. Name it after your program. | | Add for all users | Use

Open File Explorer and find the .exe file you want to run at startup.