How To Add Programs To Startup Official

Method 1: Using the "shell:startup" Folder (Recommended & Easiest)

How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 10 & 11: A Complete Guide how to add programs to startup

Adding programs to startup is a "quality of life" tweak that shaves seconds off your daily routine. However, it is a balancing act. Every app you add increases your and consumes RAM from the get-go. To keep your system snappy, it is best to only automate the "must-haves"—the tools you know you’ll use every single time you power on. Method 1: Using the "shell:startup" Folder (Recommended &

Alternatively, many modern apps (like Spotify or Discord) have a "Launch on Startup" toggle within their own menu. You can also manage these apps by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager and clicking the Startup tab to enable or disable programs with a single click. For Mac Users To keep your system snappy, it is best

As of early 2026, Windows 10 and 11 offer multiple, robust methods to manage these apps, ranging from simple drag-and-drop techniques to more advanced system configurations.

Adding too many programs to startup can slow down your boot time, making your computer feel sluggish after you log in. As a rule of thumb, only add essential applications.