Windows 11 Autostart Folder Exclusive Jun 2026

If you have an application that doesn't have an "open at startup" setting, you can force it using the Startup folder.

This is the recommended method for most users. It only affects your account. Press to open the Run box. Type shell:startup and press Enter .

Once you've accessed your personal Startup folder ( shell:startup ), you have total control. Any file you place here will automatically launch when you log into your Windows account.

Sometimes, adding a shortcut to the folder isn't enough. Here are three reasons why your autostart might fail: windows 11 autostart folder exclusive

Find the program you want to autostart in your Start Menu or installation folder.

Unlike the Task Manager (which often requires apps to "register" themselves to show up), placing a shortcut in this folder is a definitive command: 1. How to Access the Autostart Folder (Exclusive Method)

Adding an item to the autostart sequence is a simple drag-and-drop process. Open the using the shell:startup command. Find the application or file you want to automate. If you have an application that doesn't have

The application utilizes less than 300 milliseconds of CPU time.

Startup apps artificially delayed on Windows 11? - Microsoft Q&A

The beauty of this exclusive folder is that it acts as an for your startup preferences, ensuring you can fine-tune your own experience without interfering with anyone else's workflow on the same machine. Press to open the Run box

Right-click on your desktop or in the Start Menu. Step 2: Select New > Shortcut . Step 3: Browse to notepad++.exe (or any app). Step 4: Name it "Startup Notepad." Step 5: Press Win + R , type shell:startup , hit Enter. Step 6: Drag the new shortcut from your desktop into this folder.

Microsoft has buried this folder deeper than it was in Windows 10. Here is how to reach it exclusively.

To keep your PC booting quickly and running smoothly, follow these best practices: