Windows

How do I disable startup apps in Windows?

Updated 2026-08-14

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Quick answer

You can disable startup apps in Windows by using the Task Manager or the Settings app, depending on your version of Windows.

Disabling startup applications can help improve boot times and system performance.

Steps

  1. 1

    Open Task Manager

    Right-click the taskbar and select 'Task Manager' or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

  2. 2

    Go to Startup Tab

    In Task Manager, click on the 'Startup' tab to see a list of applications that run at startup.

  3. 3

    Disable Applications

    Select the application you want to disable and click the 'Disable' button in the bottom right corner.

  4. 4

    Using Settings App

    Open Settings (Windows + I), navigate to 'Apps' > 'Startup', and toggle off the apps you want to disable.

Using Task Manager

You can easily manage startup applications through the Task Manager. This method is available in Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Using Settings App

In Windows 10 and Windows 11, you can also disable startup apps via the Settings app for a more user-friendly approach.

Watch out for

  • Disabling certain startup applications may affect the functionality of specific programs or services.

FAQ

Will disabling startup apps improve my computer's performance?

Yes, disabling unnecessary startup apps can lead to faster boot times and improved overall performance.

Can I re-enable a disabled startup app later?

Yes, you can re-enable any disabled startup app by following the same steps and selecting 'Enable' instead.

Are there any apps I should not disable?

Be cautious when disabling apps related to system processes or security software, as this may affect system functionality.