How to Find and Disable Hidden Startup Apps in Windows 11
If your Windows 11 PC feels slow when starting up, chances are there are apps quietly running in the background. Some of these apps are obvious, while others are hidden deep within system folders, registry entries, or service configurations.
Hidden startup apps can slow boot time, eat up memory, and even create security risks. This guide walks you through all the ways to find and disable them.
Why Hidden Startup Apps Matter
When Windows boots, several applications and background services start automatically. Some are essential (like antivirus software), but many are unnecessary or even unwanted.
Here’s why checking for hidden startup apps helps:
- Faster boot times: Reduces delay by preventing unnecessary programs from loading.
- Better performance: Frees up RAM and CPU for the apps you actually use.
- Improved security: Detects and disables apps that could secretly run or collect data.
- Easier troubleshooting: Fixes issues caused by background conflicts or crashes.
- Longer battery life: Cuts down background power usage on laptops and tablets.
1. Using Task Manager
Task Manager is the easiest way to see and disable startup apps.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, or right-click the Taskbar and choose Task Manager.
- Click the Startup apps tab (you may need to expand details first).
- Review each app listed — you’ll see its status (enabled or disabled) and startup impact (low, medium, or high).
- Right-click an app and select Disable to stop it from launching when you log in.
Tip:
Hover over each app to view its file location. If the path looks unfamiliar or suspicious (for example, pointing to a temporary folder), investigate before keeping it enabled.
2. Using Windows Settings
Windows 11 also includes a simplified startup manager in the Settings app.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Apps → Startup.
- You’ll see a list of startup programs with toggle switches.
- Turn off the apps you don’t need.
Note:
Not all apps appear here — only those registered through the Windows App Framework. Older programs or system services may be hidden.
3. Checking Startup Folders in File Explorer
Windows has two startup folders — one for your user account and one for all users. Programs listed here automatically run after you sign in.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
shell:startup, and press Enter.- This opens your personal startup folder.
- For all users, open the Run dialog again and type:
shell:common startup - Delete shortcuts for apps you don’t want to run at startup.
Location Paths:
- User folder:
C:\Users\<YourName>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup - All users folder:
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
4. Using System Configuration (msconfig)
This classic tool is useful for managing startup apps and services.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager — this links to the startup manager.
- Optionally, in the General tab, select Selective startup to temporarily disable non-Microsoft services when troubleshooting.
Tip:
Use Selective startup carefully — it’s best for testing whether a startup program causes slow boots or crashes.
5. Using the Registry Editor (Advanced Users Only)
Some apps add themselves to the Windows Registry to start automatically.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. - Navigate to these paths one by one:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run - Each entry here launches an app at startup.
- Right-click unwanted entries and choose Delete.
Warning:
Be cautious — removing the wrong registry keys can cause errors. Before making changes, export the registry (File → Export) to back it up.
6. Using Command Prompt or PowerShell
You can list all startup programs (including hidden ones) from the command line.
Command Prompt
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Run:
wmic startup get caption,commandThis displays each startup app’s name and its file path.
PowerShell
- Open PowerShell (Admin).
- Run:
Get-CimInstance Win32_StartupCommand | Select-Object Name, Command, LocationThis provides a complete, formatted list of startup entries across all user profiles.
Pro Tip:
Export the list for analysis by adding | Out-File "$env:USERPROFILE\Desktop\StartupApps.txt" at the end of the command.
7. Using Third-Party Tools
Third-party utilities show everything that runs during startup, including hidden drivers, services, and scheduled tasks.
Recommended Tools:
- Autoruns for Windows (Microsoft Sysinternals):
Shows every startup location, including registry keys, Explorer shell extensions, and system services.- Download from: docs.microsoft.com/sysinternals
- CCleaner:
Has a Startup tab under Tools → Startup, making it easy to enable/disable items. - Glary Utilities:
Highlights startup delays, dependencies, and risky apps.
Tip:
Stick to trusted tools. Avoid free “optimizer” apps that might install unwanted software.
8. Managing Startup Services
Not all auto-start processes are apps. Some are Windows services that run in the background.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Sort the list by Startup Type to view automatic, manual, and disabled services.
- Double-click a non-critical service and change Startup type to Manual or Disabled.
Examples of safe-to-disable non-critical services:
- Bluetooth Support Service (if you don’t use Bluetooth)
- Fax Service
- Remote Registry
Do not disable:
Windows Update, Cryptographic Services, or Security Center — these are essential.
Best Practices for Managing Startup Apps
- Review monthly: Apps often re-enable themselves after updates.
- Investigate unknown entries: Search the file name online if unsure.
- Use antivirus: Hidden apps can be signs of malware.
- Monitor startup impact: High-impact programs slow down boot significantly.
- Use cloud sync apps carefully: Tools like OneDrive and Dropbox may affect startup speed.
Summary Table
| Method | What It Does | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Task Manager | Shows standard startup apps | Everyday users |
| Settings → Apps → Startup | Easy toggle interface | Beginners |
| File Explorer (shell:startup) | Lists manual startup shortcuts | Manual app management |
| msconfig | Controls startup modes for troubleshooting | Advanced users |
| Registry Editor | Shows hidden startup entries | Power users |
| PowerShell / CMD | Lists all startup commands | Scripting and auditing |
| Autoruns / CCleaner | Detects deep system startups | IT professionals |
| services.msc | Controls background services | Performance tuning |
Security Tips
- Review startup apps regularly.
- Disable unknown or duplicate entries.
- Keep Windows Defender or your antivirus active.
- Avoid installing software from unverified sources.
- Use a Microsoft account with standard permissions to reduce risk from malicious startup changes.
Bottom Line
Hidden startup apps can silently drain your system’s performance and pose security risks. By regularly auditing your startup entries and disabling unnecessary apps, you keep your Windows 11 PC fast, secure, and clutter-free.
Take 5 minutes once a month to check Task Manager, Autoruns, or your registry — your system will thank you.
