how to see startup programs windows 11
Want to see which programs start up automatically when you boot your Windows 11 PC? It’s pretty simple. Head over to the Task Manager or Settings app to find a list of startup programs. From there, you can enable or disable any program to optimize your system’s performance. Let’s dive in and show you how to do it step-by-step.
How to See Startup Programs in Windows 11
In this section, we’ll walk through how to see and manage your startup programs in Windows 11. This will help you identify which applications are automatically loading when your computer starts.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Once you press these keys simultaneously, the Task Manager window will appear. This tool helps manage applications and processes running on your Windows 11 system.
Step 2: Go to the Startup Tab
Click on the ‘Startup’ tab at the top of the Task Manager window.
This tab lists all the programs set to run when your computer boots up. You can see the status of each program, whether it’s enabled or disabled, and its impact on startup time.
Step 3: Open Settings
Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
This is another way to access startup programs and offers a more user-friendly interface for beginners.
Step 4: Navigate to Apps
In the Settings app, click on ‘Apps’ from the sidebar.
The ‘Apps’ section contains a variety of settings related to the applications installed on your computer, including startup options.
Step 5: Select Startup
Click on ‘Startup’ in the Apps section.
This will display a list of all the startup programs, along with toggles to enable or disable each one.
Once you complete these steps, you’ll have a comprehensive view of the programs that run when you start your computer. Adjusting these settings can speed up your boot time and improve overall performance.
Tips for Managing Startup Programs in Windows 11
- Prioritize Essential Programs: Only allow essential programs to run at startup to speed up your boot time.
- Regularly Review: Periodically check the startup programs to ensure no unnecessary applications have been added.
- Research Unknown Programs: If you don’t recognize a program, look it up to determine whether it’s safe to disable.
- Use Impact Ratings: Pay attention to the "Startup Impact" column in Task Manager; disable high-impact programs first if you need to speed up startup.
- Backup First: Before disabling a program, make sure to note its name in case you need to enable it again later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access Task Manager in Windows 11?
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Can disabling startup programs improve computer speed?
Yes, disabling unnecessary startup programs can speed up your boot time.
Are there any risks to disabling startup programs?
Generally, no, but ensure you don’t disable essential system programs.
How can I identify which startup programs are necessary?
Research each program online to determine its necessity.
Is there an alternative way to manage startup programs?
Yes, you can also use third-party software for more advanced management.
Summary
- Open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup tab.
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Apps.
- Select Startup.
Conclusion
Managing startup programs in Windows 11 is a straightforward way to enhance your computer’s performance. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily identify and control which applications launch when your computer boots up. This simple task can have a significant impact, especially if your system has been running slower than usual.
Remember, the fewer programs you allow to start automatically, the faster your computer will be ready for use. Regularly check your startup list and make adjustments as needed. For more advanced management, consider looking into third-party tools specifically designed for optimizing startup items.
If you’re interested in learning more about Windows 11 features, consider exploring additional resources or guides. Understanding how to manage your computer effectively can lead to a smoother, more efficient user experience. So, take control of those startup programs today, and enjoy a faster, more responsive Windows 11 PC!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.