How to Stop Apps From Opening on Startup: Six Methods

How to Stop Apps From Opening on Startup: Six Methods

If you’re tired of waiting for your computer to load because of the dozens of apps that launch automatically on startup, you’re not alone. Startup programs can slow down your computer and make it difficult to get right to work. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage these programs and stop them from launching automatically.

Method 1: Using Task Manager (Windows)

The Task Manager in Windows allows you to control many aspects of your computer’s performance, including startup programs. Here’s how to use it:

1. Right-click on the taskbar and select “Task Manager” to launch it.
2. Click on the “Startup” tab to see a list of all the programs that are set to launch automatically on startup.
3. Select the program you want to stop from launching and click “Disable” at the bottom right corner of the screen.

Note: Disabling programs via Task Manager only affects the current user account and not all users on the computer.

Method 2: Using System Preferences (Mac)

Mac users can manage their startup apps using the System Preferences tool:

1. Click on the Apple icon on the top left corner of your screen and select “System Preferences” from the dropdown menu.
2. Select “Users & Groups” and then click on your username on the left-hand side.
3. Select the “Login Items” tab to see a list of all the programs that are set to launch automatically on startup.
4. Select the program you want to stop from launching and click the “-” button below the list.

Method 3: Editing the Registry (Windows)

Windows users can also edit their computer’s Registry to manage startup programs, but this method is more complicated and can be risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Here’s how:

1. Open the “Run” command by pressing the Windows key and the “R” key simultaneously, then type “regedit” and hit enter.
2. Navigate to “HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run” to see a list of all the programs that are set to launch automatically on startup.
3. Right-click on the program you want to stop from launching and select “Delete.”

Note: Editing the Registry can have serious consequences if done incorrectly, so be careful and create a backup before making any changes.

Method 4: Using Login Items (Mac)

Mac users have a simpler way to manage their startup programs – through the Login Items menu. Here’s how:

1. Click on the Apple icon on the top left corner of your screen and select “System Preferences” from the dropdown menu.
2. Select “Users & Groups” and then click on your username on the left-hand side.
3. Select the “Login Items” tab to see a list of all the programs that are set to launch automatically on startup.
4. Select the program you want to stop from launching and click the “-” button below the list.

Method 5: Using a Third-Party App (Windows or Mac)

If you’re not comfortable editing your computer’s settings or simply want a simpler way to manage startup programs, you can use a third-party app. Here are a few popular options:

• Windows: CCleaner, Autoruns, or WinPatrol
• Mac: CleanMyMac, AppCleaner, or Yasu

The exact process for using a third-party app will vary depending on the program, but most will have a simple interface that allows you to disable or remove programs from startup.

Method 6: Best Practices for Managing Startup Programs

Regardless of which method you choose, it’s always a good idea to follow some best practices for managing startup programs. Here are a few tips:

• Uninstall unnecessary programs that you no longer use.
• Remove files and folders that may slow down your computer’s startup process.
• Prioritize important apps and make sure they are set to launch automatically.
• Regularly clean your computer using a trusted PC optimization software.

By following these practices, you can keep your computer running smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays caused by startup apps.

Conclusion

Managing startup programs can do wonders for improving your computer’s performance and speed. In this article, we’ve provided six different methods for managing startup programs, from using Task Manager to editing the Registry (with caution!). We’ve also outlined some best practices for managing startup programs to help ensure that your computer runs smoothly.