To Add Programs To Startup Windows 11 Updated | How

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog. Type the following command and press Enter:

shell:startup

This opens the personal Startup folder for your user account:
C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup

Note for SysAdmins: For all users, use shell:common startup (requires admin rights). how to add programs to startup windows 11 updated

Programs that require admin privileges will fail silently when launched from the Startup Folder.

Pro Tip from 2026: Windows 11 now includes a "Startup Impact" rating in Task Manager. "High" impact programs should be avoided at startup unless absolutely necessary. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog

  • Right-click → New → String Value. Name it descriptively.
  • Double-click it and set its value to the full path of the program’s .exe (include quotes if path has spaces).
  • Restart or sign out/in to test.

    • Delete the String Value you created under the Run key.

  • Test It: Restart your PC, log in, and the program should launch automatically. This opens the personal Startup folder for your

    • The legendary Startup Folder still works beautifully in Windows 11. It’s the most straightforward way to add any program, shortcut, script, or document to launch when you log in.