Direct answer
Use Settings › Apps › Startup or Task Manager › Startup apps and disable only the item you recognize. This prevents automatic launch; it does not uninstall the application or stop all background services.
What this covers
- Windows 11 startup applications listed by Windows
- The exact condition described in the direct answer
- Customer-accessible observations and controls
What it does not cover
- ×A different model, region or software interface that contradicts the cited source
- ×A displayed code with a separate manufacturer meaning
- ×Live electrical, gas, sealed-system or battery-cell repair
Establish the exact starting state
ReversibleSort by startup impact and identify the publisher and function of each item.
Separate the fault or decision boundary
ReversibleDisable one nonessential app at a time so security, audio, touchpad, backup and accessibility utilities remain available.
Apply the narrowest correction
ReversibleToggle the selected startup entry off, then restart normally.
Verify before escalating
ReversibleConfirm Windows starts cleanly and the app still opens manually when needed.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Visible sources support the visible claims. Home Product Support records the publisher, the fact used and the review date; community reports can suggest an issue but do not become a published fact on their own.
Exact questions
Common follow-ups
What is the short answer to “Stop apps from opening when Windows starts”?+
Use Settings › Apps › Startup or Task Manager › Startup apps and disable only the item you recognize. This prevents automatic launch; it does not uninstall the application or stop all background services.
What should I check before changing anything?+
Sort by startup impact and identify the publisher and function of each item.
How do I know the action worked?+
Confirm Windows starts cleanly and the app still opens manually when needed.
When should I stop?+
Do not disable security, encryption, driver or accessibility components solely because their names are unfamiliar.
Answer for the exact device and software version shown above.