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Open the Startup Folder (shell:startup)

Add or remove logon-startup programs by opening shell:startup (current user) or shell:common startup (all users).

WindowsFilesshell-foldersstartupLow risk
Run explorer shell:startup, then drop in a shortcut of the program or script you want to start at logon.

01Command

Command
$ explorer shell:startup
explorer shell:common startup

02What it does

Anything with a shortcut in the Startup folder launches automatically after you sign in — no Task Scheduler or registry edit needed. shell:startup is your own account; shell:common startup (an admin action) affects every user of the PC. This is the simplest, most transparent autostart method, and you can see and remove entries in Task Manager's Startup tab as well.

03Risk

RiskLow risk
!Warning: Only shortcuts live here — moving the program itself into the Startup folder will make it fail to start other things correctly; and avoid adding heavy apps that slow logon.

04Undo

Undo
$ Delete the shortcut from the Startup folder.

05Sources

  • Windows shell: commands - SS64
    Microsoft Learn · vendor-doc · 2026-09-17
    Evidence: Lists the shell: constants such as shell:Downloads, shell:sendto and shell:startup that open known Windows folders.
  • Start - SS64
    SS64 · technical · 2026-09-17
    Evidence: start launches shell: locations; document shortcuts placed in Startup folders run at logon.

Last verified: 2026-09-18 · Category: Files & Folders

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