The Autostart folder in Windows 11 plays an important role when booting up your PC: programs that are loaded directly when the system starts are stored here.
Where to find the Autostart folder in Windows 11
Many Windows users are not even aware that Windows 11 not only loads its own processes when starting up, but also automatically starts programs from a special folder – the so-called startup folder.
- The startup folder is somewhat hidden in the file system. The easiest way to access it is via Windows Explorer using the path C:Users
AppDataRoamingMicrosoftWindowsStart MenuProgramsStartup.
- You can also press Windows + R, enter shell:startup and confirm with Enter – this will also open the startup folder for your user account.
- For programs that should be executed when all user accounts start, use shell:common startup instead.
- If you search for the folder manually, remember to display hidden files and folders in Explorer – otherwise “AppData” will remain invisible.
- You can also simply create a shortcut to the startup folder on the desktop for faster access in the future.
These are the tasks of the startup folder
The startup folder is more than just a collection point for links: it helps determine how quickly and smoothly your PC starts up – and which programs are immediately available to you after logging in.
- All links in the startup folder are automatically loaded when Windows starts. This is particularly useful for tools such as cloud clients or organizer apps. However, too many startup programs can significantly slow down the system startup, so you should always keep an eye on the folder.
- The startup folder complements the automatic startup management in the task manager, but it can be influenced much more specifically manually.
- If you work with certain tools every day (e.g. VPN client, project software), you can conveniently store them in the startup folder for a faster start to the workday.
- However, unwanted software can also quickly nest in the startup folder. Therefore, regularly check whether third-party programs have crept into the folder.
This is how you add programs to the startup folder or remove them
Once you have found the Startup folder, the first question that naturally arises is: how do you use it? Regardless of whether you want to start programs automatically or remove annoying tools, using the Startup folder is quick and easy.
- Simply drag a shortcut of the desired program into the startup folder. The software will start automatically the next time you boot up.
- Do not copy the actual program file, only the shortcut – otherwise there may be problems when starting the program.
- To remove a program, delete the corresponding shortcut from the folder.
