Monday, December 1, 2025

How to Disable Startup Programs in Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Guide)

 









Introduction

Windows 11 comes with many apps that automatically start when you turn on your PC. These startup programs can slow down boot time, increase memory usage, and even affect system performance.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to disable unnecessary startup apps in Windows 11 using different methods.

 Why Disable Startup Programs?

Disabling unnecessary startup apps helps:

  • Speed up PC boot time

  • Free up RAM

  • Reduce CPU usage

  • Make your system smoother and more responsive

Method 1: Disable Startup Apps from Task Manager

Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Open Task Manager

Right-click on the Taskbar → Select Task Manager.

Step 2: Go to Startup Apps

Click on the Startup apps tab.

Step 3: Disable the App

Select the program you don’t want to run at startup → Click Disable at the top-right.

 Recommended to Disable

  • Spotify

  • Steam

  • Microsoft Teams

  • Zoom

  • Adobe services

  • Third-party updaters (HP, Dell, etc.)

Do NOT disable essential apps like:

  • Windows Security

  • OneDrive (if you use it)

  • Drivers (Intel, AMD, NVIDIA)

Method 2: Disable Startup Apps from Settings

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

Press Windows + I

Step 2: Go to Apps → Startup

Step 3: Toggle Off Apps

You’ll see a list of all startup programs.
Turn OFF anything unnecessary.

Method 3: Disable Startup Services Using MSConfig

⚠ For advanced users only

Step 1: Open Run

Press Windows + R → Type:

msconfig

Step 2: Go to the Services Tab

Step 3: Check “Hide all Microsoft services”

Step 4: Uncheck Unwanted Services

Click Apply → OK and restart your PC.

Method 4: Delete Startup Items from Startup Folder

Step 1: Open Run

Press Windows + R → Type:

shell:startup

Step 2: Delete Unwanted Shortcuts

Remove any program you don’t want at startup.

What Happens After Disabling Startup Apps?

You will notice:

  • Faster boot time

  • Lower RAM consumption

  • Better performance in daily tasks

  • Improved battery life on laptops