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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).