Add Programs To Startup Windows 11 Updated: How To

How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 11 (Updated Guide for 2025)

Published: October 2025
Reading Time: 8 minutes

Paste in Startup: Go back to the Startup folder (from step 1), right-click an empty space, and select Paste. Method 3: Using Task Manager how to add programs to startup windows 11 updated

Step 1: Press Windows + I to open Settings. How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows

1. Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to this path for the current user: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
3. Right-click in the blank space on the right side > New > String Value.
4. Name the string value whatever you like (e.g., "ChromeStartup").
5. Double-click the new string value and enter the full path to the program's .exe file in the "Value data" field (e.g., "C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe").

• Optional: If your program needs a specific file to open (e.g., a document), add the file path in the Add arguments field.

The Ultimate 2026 Guide: How to Add Programs to Startup in Windows 11 (Updated)

In the fast-paced digital world of 2026, every second counts. When you boot up your Windows 11 PC, the last thing you want to do is manually launch the same six applications every single time—your email client, browser, team collaboration tool, music player, or password manager. Press Windows Key + R , type regedit , and press Enter