How To Add Programs To Startup Windows 11 Updated ~upd~ Jun 2026

Press Windows Key + R on your keyboard.

Windows 11 "Fast Startup" features can sometimes skip startup folders during a hybrid shutdown. Test a full system reboot by clicking Start > Power > Restart to see if the app triggers correctly.

Right-click the app and choose Create shortcut . Windows will ask to place it on your desktop; say Yes .

Even after following these methods, you might occasionally encounter an issue where a program fails to launch at startup. Here are common fixes to try: how to add programs to startup windows 11 updated

There are several methods to add programs to the startup list in Windows 11. We will explore each method in detail, ensuring that you can choose the one that suits your needs.

Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager , or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc .

However, not all programs are well-behaved or offer a built-in startup toggle. For these, or for users who prefer a more hands-on, file-system-oriented approach, the classic remains a powerful and effective tool. This method gives the user direct control: any shortcut placed inside this special folder will be launched automatically when the user logs in. In Windows 11, there are actually two Startup Folders: one for the current user and one for all users on the machine. The current user’s folder is the most commonly used and can be accessed most efficiently by pressing Win + R , typing shell:startup , and pressing Enter. This opens a File Explorer window to a hidden directory (typically C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup ). To add a program, the user simply navigates to the executable file (or an existing desktop shortcut), right-clicks it, selects "Copy," and then right-clicks inside the Startup Folder to "Paste as shortcut." The next time the user logs in, that program will launch. This method is ideal for portable applications, scripts (which can be added as .bat or .ps1 files), or any program that stubbornly lacks an internal startup setting. Press Windows Key + R on your keyboard

To automatically launch applications when booting your PC, you can configure your settings natively by using , the hidden Shell Startup folder , or Task Scheduler . Adding your critical work applications—such as communication tools, project management apps, or cloud storage sync services—directly to the boot sequence guarantees they are active and fully operational the moment you sign in.

This updated 2026 guide covers the most reliable methods to add programs to your startup sequence in Windows 11, ranging from beginner-friendly settings to advanced shortcuts. Method 1: Using the Startup Folder (Most Reliable)

Over time, leftover registry entries from uninstalled programs can linger and potentially cause conflicts. Use a trusted system cleaner or navigate the registry manually to remove defunct keys from the Run locations described in Method 4. Right-click the app and choose Create shortcut

That's it! The program will now launch the next time you sign in.

Click on Startup at the bottom of the right-hand panel.