logo
search
Others

How to Stop Microsoft Teams from Starting Automatically

Steve KSteve K Oct 9, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user wants to prevent the new Microsoft Teams application from launching automatically every time Windows starts.

How to Stop the New Microsoft Teams App Starting Automatically
Product
Microsoft Teams
Device & OS
Windows
Scenario
Managing Windows startup applications to improve boot time and prevent unwanted app launches.
Observed behavior
Microsoft Teams automatically opens during the Windows boot process, taking up screen space and consuming system resources.
Before you start

Ensure you have administrative privileges on your Windows account, as modifying startup applications via Task Manager may require elevated permissions. Save any ongoing work before restarting your computer to test the changes.

Solution 1Recommended

Disable Auto-Start in Microsoft Teams Settings

The most straightforward way to stop Teams from opening at boot is through its built-in settings menu.

Microsoft Teams includes a built-in toggle specifically designed to manage its startup behavior. Adjusting this setting will communicate your preference directly to the application.

1
Open Microsoft Teams

Launch the new Microsoft Teams application on your Windows computer.

2
Access Settings

Click on the three-dot menu (More options) or your profile picture in the top-right corner of the application window, then select 'Settings'.

3
Modify General Settings

Navigate to the 'General' tab located in the left sidebar of the settings menu.

4
Disable Auto-Start

Locate the 'Auto-start Teams' option and clear the checkbox or toggle it to the off position. Close the settings menu to save your preference.

Disable Auto-Start in Microsoft Teams Settings
Verified Action: You can restart your Windows PC to verify that Microsoft Teams no longer opens automatically upon logging in.
Free Microsoft Office alternative

Looking for a Lightweight and Fast Office Suite?

If you are optimizing your Windows startup and managing heavy Microsoft applications, you might also benefit from a lighter, faster alternative to Microsoft Office. WPS Office provides a complete, resource-friendly productivity suite.

  1. 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
  2. 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the quick setup.
  3. 3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office to instantly view, edit, and create documents without taxing your system's resources.
Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Lightweight installation that doesn't slow down your Windows startupFree to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate tabbed interfaceBuilt-in PDF editor and seamless cloud synchronization
microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Microsoft Teams keep starting automatically even after I disabled it?

This issue typically occurs if the application undergoes a major update, which might reset user preferences to default settings. Double-check both the in-app Settings and the Windows Task Manager Startup tab to ensure the auto-start option remains disabled.

Will disabling Teams on startup log me out of my account?

No, disabling the auto-start feature only stops the application from launching when Windows boots. Your account credentials, chats, and workspace settings remain securely saved for the next time you manually open the app.

Does disabling startup apps improve Windows boot speed?

Yes, preventing resource-heavy applications like Microsoft Teams from launching at startup reduces CPU, disk, and memory usage during boot, resulting in a noticeably faster and smoother Windows startup experience.

Can I disable Teams auto-start on macOS as well?

Yes, on a Mac, you can right-click the Microsoft Teams icon in the Dock, hover over 'Options', and uncheck 'Open at Login'. Alternatively, you can manage startup applications via System Settings > General > Login Items.