How do I disable autostart apps on Windows 11?

If standard settings and Task Manager methods fail or are inaccessible, the issue may involve deeper system-level startup items. In such cases, you should consider using third-party software to disable automatic startup applications on Windows 11.

Step 1: Download the tool

Download the Autoruns compressed package from the official Microsoft website. Extract the archive, right-click Autoruns.exe, select the 64-bit version, and run it as administrator.

Step 2: Identify Core Startup Items and Disable Them

• Switch to the Logon tab, which corresponds to the Task Manager's “Startup” tab.

• Items highlighted in yellow represent leftover entries from uninstalled software and can be safely disabled.

• Disable method: Uncheck the box to the left of the target entry (this only disables, does not delete, and can be restored at any time).

Step 3: Security Considerations

Prioritize non-Microsoft entries with clear publishers. Avoid disabling entries published by “Microsoft Corporation” or “Microsoft Windows” unless you are certain they are unnecessary.

Step 4: Investigate Other Hidden Startup Items

• Scheduled Tasks tab: Clean up applications set to launch at startup via Task Scheduler.

• Services tab: Review and manage non-Microsoft system service startup entries.

• Explorer tab: Disable browser extensions and shell plugin-type startup items.

Step 5: Backup Configuration

This is a critical step. Before making changes, click “File” → “Save” at the top to save a snapshot of the current startup configuration for restoration if errors occur.

When using Autoruns, leave entries unchecked if uncertain. A safe practice is to disable only items from reputable software publishers (e.g., Adobe, Google, Spotify).