Program: How to Automatically Close Open Windows on Startup

This updated guide examines Program: How to Automatically Close Open Windows on Startup and organizes the essential facts, background, and practical takeaways in clear American English.

Method 1of 2:

Windows 10, 8.1, and 8

1. Open the Task Manager. There are two main ways to open the Task Manager:
   • PressCtrl+⇧Shift+Esc.
   • Right-click the Taskbar and select "Task Manager".
2. Click the "Startup" tab. If you don't see the "Startup" tab, click the "More details" button first.
3. Select a program that you want to disable. All of the programs that start with your computer will be listed here. Select one that you want to prevent from starting with Windows.
   • If you aren't sure what a program is in the list, right-click on it and select "Search online". This will open your default web browser and search Bing for the program information.
   • The "Startup impact" column will give you an idea of how much each program will slow down the startup process.
4. Click the "Disable" button after selecting a program. This will prevent the program from starting with Windows.
   • It is generally safe to disable any program on this list, though it may affect how the particular program runs.
5. Perform virus and malware scans if programs continue to load at boot. If you've disabled all of the programs on the list and you are still plagued with pop-ups when you start your computer, you may have a virus or malware infection. The best way to combat these is by using your antivirus program in combination with Malwarebytes Antimalware (malwarebytes.org).
   • For detailed instructions on removing viruses and other malware, see How to Remove Malware.

Method 2of 2:

Windows 7, Vista, and XP

1. Open the Run window. There are two main ways to open this window:
   • Press⊞Win+R.
   • Open the Start menu and select "Run".
2. Click the "Startup" tab. This will display a list of all of the programs that run when Windows loads.
3. Find the program that you want to disable. Browse through the list of programs until you find the one you want to disable. Perform a web search using the "Startup Item" name and "Manufacturer" if you are unsure about the program.
4. Uncheck the box for each program you want to disable. If a program's box is checked, it will load when Windows starts. Uncheck the box for each program that you want to prevent from loading when Windows starts.
5. Click "Apply" or "OK" to save your changes. You will be prompted to restart your computer, but you don't have to right away. Your changes will take effect the next time Windows loads.^[1]
6. Check for viruses and other malware if disabled programs continue to appear. If you disable a program and it keeps coming back, or you've disabled everything and you're still getting pop-ups, you may have a virus infection. Use a reputable antivirus program like Microsoft Security Essentials or Kaspersky, along with a malware removal program like Malwarebytes Antimalware (malwarebytes.org).
   • See How to Remove Malware for an in-depth guide on removing viruses and malware.