Stop a program from automatically starting on Windows

If there's an unwanted program that is launched when you log in on Windows, check the following places (ordered from most common to most obscure).

• A startup program: taskmgr (Startup tab), Check for Startup Apps at: Settings -> Apps -> Startup.
• A shortcut in the start menu's startup folder: %appdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
• A service that is set to start automatically. Run msconfig.exe (shows non-Microsoft services, which is nice), or taskmgr (Services tab), or services.msc
• A scheduled task. Run taskschd.msc and look under "Task Scheduler Library". Check for any unwanted tasks that starts the unwanted program. Right click and disable.
• A group policy. gpedit.msc, then check: Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Logon -> Run these programs at user logon.