The legacy of the Windows operating system, from the days of Windows 95, carries with it features that are sometimes overlooked but essential for optimizing user experience. One such feature is the Startup folder, a pivotal tool for users wanting to streamline their boot-up processes. By placing applications or processes in this folder, users can ensure they automatically start when the system boots up. Although in recent iterations like Windows 10 and Windows 11, the Startup tab in the Task Manager efficiently handles the addition or removal of startup programs, the traditional Startup folder remains relevant. This is further emphasized by the dual nature of the Startup folder: one tailored for individual users and another that applies to all system users. The personalized version is activated when that specific user logs in, while the all-encompassing version takes effect for every system user upon boot-up. In this risewindows guide, we will delve into the steps to access this invaluable Startup folder in Windows 11.
Startup Folder vs. Startup App
Now, you can manage third-party apps from the Startup folder and handle the startup apps you’ve installed from the Microsoft Store or those that come built-in. Therefore, you need to explore the Settings app. You should use the Startup Apps screen in Windows 11’s Settings app to prevent apps from launching when you sign in. You can toggle apps on or off based on whether you want them to run or stop at startup. While these apps don’t appear in the Startup folders, you can still access them.
How to Open the Startup Folder on Windows 11?
As mentioned above, there are two locations for the “Startup” folder: one specific to your account and the other for all users. Programs within these folders will launch when the PC starts. Thus, you can add a program shortcut to this folder to run the app upon PC startup. Deleting a program shortcut from this folder will prevent it from launching at startup.
To access these Startup folders on your Windows 11 computer, perform the following steps:-
Step 1. First, use the Windows + R keyboard shortcut to open the Run menu.
Step 2. When the Run box opens, type one of the following commands and press Enter from the keyboard or click OK:-
- For Personal User Startup folder: shell:startup
- For All Users Path: shell:common startup
After completing the above steps, the Startup folder will immediately open, and you may see a bunch of folders and program shortcuts.
Now, you can drag and drop program shortcuts into this folder to have them launch at startup. If you want to prevent a program from launching at startup, simply remove its shortcut from this folder. Adding or removing a program from startup is quite straightforward.
Also Read: How to Replace the Old Start Button of Windows 10 with the Aero Start button?
Conclusion
The Windows operating system has a rich history of features designed to optimize user experience. The Startup folder, which dates back to the early days of Windows, is one such feature. It allows users to decide which applications launch automatically upon system boot-up. In Windows 11, while there’s an emphasis on the Task Manager’s Startup tab and the Settings app for managing startup apps, the traditional Startup folder remains a powerful tool. This folder, with its dual versions catering to individual and all users, enables users to easily control the automatic launch of their essential programs.
