Stop a program from automatically starting on Windows

From Leo's Notes
Last edited on 30 December 2021, at 01:48.

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.
Windows