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If you’re someone who uses a specific application frequently, you might find it cumbersome to launch it every single time you start your computer. It’s time-consuming and could take up quite a bit of time. Fortunately, you can make the application run on startup and save yourself a lot of trouble! In this blog post, we will discuss various methods on how to launch apps on startup for Windows 10.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we begin, you’ll need to check whether the application has the option to run during startup. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to use one of the methods below. You’ll also need a Windows 10 computer and, of course, the app you want to start up.
What Requires Your Focus?
While it’s easy to make an app run automatically during startup, it’s essential to think about the app’s impact on your computer’s performance. If the app is resource-intensive and runs on startup, your computer’s performance will suffer. So, keep that in mind while deciding which method to use.
Different Methods to Make an App Run on Startup Windows 10
Method 1: Use the Startup Folder
This method involves adding a shortcut of the app you want to run to the startup folder. Here’s how to do it:
1. Press the Windows + R keys on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "shell:startup" in the box and click OK.
3. The Startup folder will open. Right-click anywhere on an empty space and select New > Shortcut.
4. In the Create Shortcut window, click Browse. Navigate to the location of the app you want to start on startup and select its executable file. Click Next.
5. Give your shortcut a name and click Finish.
Pros:
– Simple and intuitive method.
– Doesn’t require any third-party tools.
Cons:
– Not all apps can be added to the startup folder.
– Some apps might not work correctly with this method.
Method 2: Use the Task Scheduler
Windows Task Scheduler is another useful built-in tool that allows you to schedule tasks on your Windows computer. Here’s how to use it:
1. Press the Windows + R keys on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "taskschd.msc" and click OK.
3. In the Task Scheduler window, select Create Task from the right-hand side panel.
4. In the General tab, give your task a name and enable the "Run with the highest privileges" option.
5. In the Triggers tab, click New and select At startup from the Begin the task dropdown list.
6. In the Actions tab, click New. Browse and locate the executable file of the app you want to start and select it. Click OK.
7. Click OK to apply the changes.
Pros:
– Task Scheduler is a powerful built-in tool that allows for greater customization and control.
– Supports more apps than the Startup Folder method.
Cons:
– The process might be a bit complex for beginners.
– Small mistakes in the task configuration could result in the app not starting up at all.
Method 3: Use a Third-Party Tool
If the built-in Windows utilities don’t work for you, you can use third-party apps that specialize in managing startup apps. Here’s an example:
1. Download and install CCleaner on your computer.
2. Open CCleaner and navigate to Tools > Startup.
3. Select the app you want to start on startup and click Enable.
Pros:
– Third-party tools are generally more user-friendly and straightforward to use.
– Provides additional features and options such as disabling apps on startup.
Cons:
– Additional software could take up valuable system resources.
– Some tools have hidden costs or might be malware.
Why Can’t I Make an App Run on Startup Windows 10?
1. The App Doesn’t Support Startup: Not all applications come with the feature to run on startup. In such cases, you will need to manually start the application each time you start your computer.
2. Insufficient Privileges: If you don’t have sufficient privileges, you won’t be able to configure a task to start on startup. In such cases, you should log in with administrator privileges and try again.
3. Antivirus or Firewall software: Sometimes, antivirus or firewall software could prevent an app from running on startup. You might need to add an exception for the app on your antivirus or firewall software.
Implications and Recommendations
While running apps on startup could save time, it’s important to consider the implications it could have on your computer’s performance. If the app uses a significant amount of resources, it could slow down your computer and result in longer startup times. Therefore, it’s better to use this feature only for essential applications.
5 FAQs About Making an App Run on Startup Windows 10
Q1: How do I remove an app from startup?
A: To remove an app from startup, follow the method used to add it, but instead, right-click on the shortcut and select Delete.
Q2: Can I start multiple applications on startup?
A: Yes, you can. Just repeat the steps for each app.
Q3: What’s the difference between using Task Scheduler and Startup Folder?
A: Task Scheduler is a powerful tool that provides more advanced options and greater customization. The Startup Folder method is more straightforward and is suitable for basic app startup needs.
Q4: Can I use the Registry Editor to create a startup entry?
A: Yes, it’s possible. But you should be extremely careful as changes to the Registry Editor could result in system instability or complete failure.
Q5: What should I do if the app still doesn’t start?
A: Double-check the configuration settings for the app and make sure there are no errors. Alternatively, try using a different method or third-party tool.
In Conclusion
Making an app run on startup could save you a lot of time and effort. Depending on your needs, you can use the Startup Folder, Task Scheduler, or third-party tools. However, it’s important to consider the app’s impact on your computer’s performance and use this feature sparingly for essential applications.