Copy and paste this path into the top address bar: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run Step 3: Create a New String Value Right-click an empty space in the right pane. Select > String Value . Name it after your application. Step 4: Add the File Path Double-click the new string value.
Navigate to the folder where your target .exe file is stored. Right-click on the EXE file, hover over , and select Create shortcut . Alternatively, you can right-click the file and select the Copy as path option if you want to paste it elsewhere, but creating a local shortcut is safest. Step 4: Move the Shortcut to the Startup Folder
Task Scheduler lets you set delays, run with highest privileges, or run when no one is signed in.
Right-click any EXE file or program in the list and select to prevent it from running at boot without deleting the file itself. If you need help setting this up, please let me know:
Configure Startup Applications in Windows - Microsoft Support how to add exe file to startup windows 11
For a permanent solution that does not rely on File Explorer shortcuts, you can add a registry key. Modify the registry carefully, as incorrect changes can affect system stability. Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
Right-click blank space → → String Value .
The same two scopes we discussed earlier apply here:
If the program needs admin rights, double-click the task in the Task Scheduler Library . Check the box for at the bottom of the General tab and click OK . Method 4: Built-in App Settings Copy and paste this path into the top
The easiest way to launch an EXE file at boot is by placing a shortcut into the hidden Windows Startup folder. Step 1: Open the Run Dialog Box
Adding Programs and Apps to the Startup Folder in Windows 10 - Dell
The most straightforward way to launch an EXE file at boot is by placing a shortcut to it inside the hidden Windows "Startup" folder. Step 1: Open the Run Dialog Box
Next, the user needs a shortcut to the desired EXE file. They should navigate to the program’s installation directory (often in C:\Program Files or C:\Program Files (x86) ), right-click the EXE file, and select This shortcut can then be cut and pasted into the Startup folder. Alternatively, the user can right-click inside the Startup folder, select “New” > “Shortcut,” and browse to the EXE file’s location. Once the shortcut is in place, the program will launch automatically on the next reboot. To remove a program, simply delete its shortcut from this folder. Step 4: Add the File Path Double-click the new string value
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc , click the Startup apps tab, right-click the app, and select Disable .
Name it (e.g., "My App Startup").
When you have configured everything, click OK to save the task. Restart your computer to test if the task runs correctly.