The Windows 10 Startup Folder controls what programs launch when your computer starts. You can use it to streamline your workflow or load essential software automatically. But finding this folder isn’t always straightforward. And when your startup apps don’t run as expected, it’s even more frustrating.
In this guide, you’ll discover three easy ways to access the Windows 10 Startup Folder and three proven fixes for when it doesn't work. Stick around to the end, where we’ll show you how launching WPS Office at startup can supercharge your daily productivity.
Part 1: How to Access the Windows 10 Startup Folder (From Easy to Advanced)
Knowing how to access the Windows 10 startup folder location is essential if you want apps to start automatically when your system boots. Let’s go over the best methods, beginning with the fastest one. This guide also includes bonus tips to help you broaden your knowledge of the Windows 10 startup folder.
Method 1: Use the Run Command (Quickest Way)
This is the easiest way to open the startup folder in Windows 10.
To access your startup folder, run the following commands:
Press Win + R on your keyboard.
Type shell: startup
Press Enter
This takes you directly to the user-level startup folder. Programs here only launch for your current account.
To access the all-users startup folder:
Press Win + R again.
Type shell: common startup
Press Enter
This folder applies to all computer users. Place shortcuts here if you want every user to launch the same apps at startup.
Tip: Use the user folder for personal apps. Use the shared folder for system-wide tools like antivirus or file-sync clients.
Method 2: Use File Explorer (Visual Navigation)
Do you prefer a visual path? You can locate the Windows 10 startup folder through File Explorer.
For your user's startup folder, use the following procedure:
C: Users\username\AppData\Roaming\MicrosoftWindows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
For the all-users startup folder, see the following reference:
C:program\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
Note: These folders may be hidden. In File Explorer, click View > Show > Hidden items to reveal them.
Now you can add or remove shortcuts just like any other folder.
Method 3: Use Task Manager to Access the Folder
If you already have apps in the startup queue, this method gives you access fast.
Right-click on the Taskbar
Select Task Manager
Click on the Startup tab.
Right-click on any listed app.
Select Open File Location
This opens the folder where the shortcut for that app lives. You can also add new ones here.
Part 2: How to Fix Windows 10 Startup Folder Not Working
Sometimes, your programs don’t launch even after placing them in the startup folder. You’re not alone — this is a common issue. But the fixes are simple. Let’s go through them.
Fix 1: Check Shortcut Validity (Beginner Level)
Open your startup folder
Locate the shortcut you placed inside.
Right-click and select Open file location, or double-click to test it.
If the program doesn’t launch, the shortcut is likely broken or points to a deleted file. To remedy this, delete it and create a new shortcut pointing directly to the .exe file.
Reminder: Broken shortcuts do nothing at startup. Always test them manually first.
Fix 2: Use Task Scheduler as an Alternative
If the startup folder isn’t working, Task Scheduler is a robust fallback.
Press Win + S and type Task Scheduler
Open it and click Create Basic Task.
Give it a name (e.g., Launch Notepad)
Choose when the computer starts.
Set the Action to “Start a program.”
Browse and select your app’s .exe file.
Click Finish
Why it works: Task Scheduler doesn’t rely on the startup folder. It’s ideal for apps that need admin rights or have complex boot requirements.
Fix 3: Check System Services and Group Policy Settings
This fix is for more advanced users or IT professionals.
Start by pressing Win+R, typing msconfig, and press Enter.
Go to the Services tab.
Make sure relevant services are checked and enabled.
Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, press Enter
Navigate to:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > ScriptsMake sure Run startup scripts visible is enabled.
If these settings are off, Windows might block your startup programs from launching properly.
Warning: Only use Group Policy Editor if you understand the risks. One wrong setting can affect your system-wide behaviour.
Part 3: Boost Productivity with WPS Office at Startup
If you want to get work done the moment your PC boots, launch a tool like WPS Office at startup. It’s lightweight, efficient, and ideal for students, remote workers, and professionals.
Main Tools in WPS Office
Writer: Perfect for reports, journals, and articles
Presentation: Create clean, modern slides
Spreadsheet: Track expenses or manage data
PDF Tools: Edit, convert, and sign PDF
WPS AI: Use AI to summarise documents or help with writing tasks
Why You Should Add WPS Office to the Startup Folder
Uses less memory than Microsoft Office
Runs smoothly on older PCs
The free version includes all essential features.
Works on Windows, macOS, Android, and ios
Easy to pin to the startup for instant access
Personal Tip: I start every workday with WPS Writer, which is already open. It helps me get into writing mode immediately without distractions.
To add WPS Office to your startup folder:
Right-click the WPS Office shortcut
Select Copy
Navigate to the shell: startup.
Paste the shortcut
Now, WPS Office will open every time you log in.
FAQs
Q1: Can I manually add apps to the Startup folder?
Yes. Just copy and paste the app’s shortcut into the Startup folder. You can use shell: startup to find it quickly.
Q2: What’s the difference between shell: startup and shell: common startup?
Shell: The startup only runs apps for the current user. Shell: The common startup runs apps for all users on the system.
Q3: Is it safe to turn off items in Task Manager’s Startup tab?
Yes, but be cautious. Don’t turn off antivirus or system-related services. Stick to third-party apps you recognize.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how to take complete control of your Windows 10 startup folder.
You learned how to access the folder using three quick methods.
You explored effective fixes when programs won’t launch.
You discovered how WPS Office can make your startup more productive
Don’t let slow or unorganized startups waste your time. Customize your boot routine, fix what’s broken, and start strong with smart tools like WPS Office.
