How to Disable Startup Programs on Windows

Overall Summary of the Instructions

Disabling startup programs on Windows can help speed up your computer's boot time and improve overall performance. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to disable these programs using the Windows Settings menu.

TLDR

To disable startup programs on Windows: Go to Settings > Apps > Startup and use the toggles to disable unwanted programs.

Step-by-Step Detailed Guide

Step 1: Open Settings

Click on the Start button, which looks like the Microsoft logo.
Select Settings from the Start menu.

Step 2: Navigate to Apps

On the left-hand side of the Settings window, click on Apps.

Step 3: Access Startup Settings

Scroll down and select Startup at the bottom of the Apps window.

Step 4: Disable Unwanted Programs

You will see a list of programs that can run at startup. Use the toggles to enable or disable each program. Toggle On if you want the app to open on startup or Off if you don’t want it to open on startup.

Additional Tips

If you’re still having trouble finding the Startup menu, try searching “Startup Apps” in the Settings search bar.
To determine what apps you should run at startup, consider which apps you use frequently. Your computer will tell you the startup impact of each app beneath the on/off toggle.