Make a Custom Startup List

If you’re like me, you have a few applications that you want running every time you turn on your computer. Some of these programs make it easy for you to change their startup behavior, while others offer no capability whatsoever. Woes be gone! I’ll show you how to fire up any program when Windows boots up.

Make a shortcut of whatever program you want to launch by right clicking on the program’s icon and selecting “Create Shortcut.” You can now copy and paste or drag this shortcut into the appropriate folder.

In Windows 7, the folder you will be searching for is inside a hidden folder, so you will need to enable your ability to see hidden folders and files. To do this in Windows 7, open up any folder and click “Organize” at the top left of the folder, then choose “Folder and search options.” Select the “View” tab and select “Show Hidden Files, Folders, and Drives” and then click “Apply.”

For Windows 7 users, navigate to C:\Users\(User-Name)\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup and place your shortcut icon here.

For Windows XP users, navigate to C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Start Menu\Programs\Startup and place your shortcut icon here. (Replace “All Users” with the appropriate username to make the program start up only with that specific user’s login)

After your shortcuts are in the appropriate folder, restart your computer and watch the magic happen.

Good luck and have fun!