How to Set an Application to start automatically at Windows 10/11 Startup

Configurare noua (How To)

Situatie

You want a specific application (e.g., Notepad, Outlook, Chrome) to launch automatically when Windows starts, but you’d prefer not to use Task Manager or third-party software.

Solutie

1. Press Win + R, type shell:startup, and press Enter

This opens the Startup folder for your current user account. Any shortcut placed in this folder will launch automatically when Windows starts.

2. Create a shortcut to the desired application

Open the Start Menu
Search for the desired app (e.g., Notepad, Outlook)
Right-click the app → Open file location
In the window that opens, copy the shortcut
Paste it into the Startup folder opened in step 1

3. Test the result

Reboot your PC or sign out and back in — the app should launch automatically

Note: This method does not allow the application to run with administrator privileges. If you need elevated rights, consider using Task Scheduler instead.

Tip solutie

Permanent

Follow Us