Windows 11 Autostart Folder Exclusive Jun 2026

While the Windows Settings app and Task Manager allow you to toggle common apps, the Startup folder is the only way to "force" certain items to run:

takeown /f "%APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup" /r /d y icacls "%APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup" /grant "%USERNAME%":F /t windows 11 autostart folder exclusive

Adding a program is surprisingly low-tech, which is part of its charm. You do not need to edit the Registry or use third-party software. While the Windows Settings app and Task Manager

To check if it worked, open Task Manager ( Ctrl + Shift + Esc ) and look at the Startup apps tab; your new entry should be listed there. When to Use the Folder vs. Settings When to Use the Folder vs

C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

the app and select Show more options > Create shortcut . Move that new shortcut into the Startup folder. Restart your PC to test the automation. Managing Autostart via Settings

No method is perfect. Relying exclusively on the Autostart folder means: