how to stop apps from opening automatically windows 10
Ever turned on your Windows 10 computer only to be greeted by a flurry of apps opening on their own? It’s annoying, right? Don’t worry, stopping apps from opening automatically in Windows 10 is a pretty simple process. You just need to tweak a few settings to regain control over your startup experience. Follow these steps and say goodbye to that chaotic startup!
How to Stop Apps from Opening Automatically Windows 10
We’re going to walk you through the steps to stop those pesky apps from launching automatically when you start your computer. By the end, your startup should be a lot cleaner and faster.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Task Manager is like the control center for managing your system. You can also get there by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting Task Manager from the menu.
Step 2: Go to the Startup Tab
Click on the "Startup" tab at the top of the Task Manager window.
The Startup tab shows a list of programs that start automatically when you boot up your computer. Here’s where you can disable or enable them.
Step 3: Select the Program
Find the program you want to stop from automatically launching and click on it.
Make sure you recognize the program you want to disable; some might be essential for your system’s functions.
Step 4: Disable the Program
Right-click the selected program and choose "Disable."
Once you disable a program, it won’t open automatically the next time you start your computer. Repeat this step for any other apps you want to stop.
Step 5: Close Task Manager
Close the Task Manager window once you’re done.
No need to save anything; the changes take effect immediately. Just close the Task Manager, and you’re all set.
Now that you’ve completed these steps, your computer should start up without launching those unwanted apps. You’ll likely notice a faster startup time and a less cluttered screen.
Tips on How to Stop Apps from Opening Automatically Windows 10
- Check Background Apps: Sometimes apps run in the background even if they don’t open automatically. You can manage these in the Settings under Privacy > Background Apps.
- Use Autoruns: For a more detailed control, you can use the Autoruns utility from Microsoft. It shows even more auto-starting locations.
- Review Startup Impact: In the Task Manager, look at the "Startup impact" column to see which apps are slowing down your startup the most.
- Disable Unnecessary Services: Some services start automatically too. You can manage these by typing
services.mscin the Run dialog. - Regular Maintenance: Periodically review your startup programs to ensure no new apps have sneaked in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do apps open automatically?
Apps are set to open automatically to ensure they’re ready for use, but this can slow down your startup.
Will disabling startup apps affect my computer?
Disabling unnecessary startup apps can actually improve your computer’s performance. Just be cautious not to disable essential ones.
Can I re-enable apps I’ve disabled?
Yes, you can easily re-enable them by going back to the Startup tab in Task Manager and selecting "Enable."
Do all apps show up in Task Manager?
Most do, but not all. For those that don’t, utilities like Autoruns can help.
How often should I check my startup programs?
It’s a good idea to review your startup programs every few months or after installing new software.
Summary
- Step 1: Open Task Manager (
Ctrl + Shift + Esc). - Step 2: Go to the Startup Tab.
- Step 3: Select the Program.
- Step 4: Disable the Program.
- Step 5: Close Task Manager.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Now you know how to stop apps from opening automatically in Windows 10. It’s a quick fix that can make a world of difference in how fast and clutter-free your computer feels when you start it up.
Keeping a tidy startup not only speeds up your boot time but also improves your overall computing experience. If you’re interested in further enhancing your computer’s performance, look into managing background apps and unnecessary services.
Remember, taking control of your startup programs is like cleaning out a cluttered closet. It might take a little time upfront, but the payoff is a more organized and efficient system. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.