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How to Stop Skype from Starting Automatically on Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Oct 22, 2021 Updated Jun 19, 2026 2 min read
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You can stop Skype from starting automatically on Windows 11 by disabling its startup setting.

Startup Apps are programs that automatically launch when you turn on your computer. Disabling Skype’s auto-start can significantly improve your Windows 11 boot time. Many users find Skype enables this feature by default upon installation.

By taking a few simple steps within Windows 11 settings, you gain control over when Skype launches. This action frees up valuable system resources immediately after you log in, allowing other applications to run more smoothly.

⚡ Quick Answer

Disable Skype in Windows 11 Startup Apps settings. For the Microsoft Store version, go to App settings and toggle “Runs at log-in” off. For the desktop version, open Task Manager, find Skype on the Startup tab, and choose Disable.

Disable the Microsoft Store version of Skype

If you downloaded Skype from the Microsoft Store, here’s how to disable its auto-start:

  1. Click the Start button and type “Skype.”
  2. Right-click the Skype icon and select App settings.
Settings menu to disable Skype from starting automatically on Windows 11
disable skype auto start
  1. Look for the section labeled Runs at log-in.
  2. Toggle the switch to the Off position.
Windows 11 app settings showing the Runs at log-in toggle
windows 11 disable skype log in as startup

Disable the traditional desktop version of Skype

You can stop the traditional desktop version of Skype from starting automatically using the Windows Task Manager by disabling it in the startup list.

  1. Click the Start button and search for Task Manager. Open it.
  2. Click the Startup tab. (Note: If you do not see tabs, click More details first.)
Searching for Task Manager in the Windows 11 start menu
search task manager on windows 11
Task Manager window showing the More details view on Windows 11
windows 11 task manager more details


  1. Find Skype in the list.
  2. Right-click on it and choose Disable.
Disabling Skype in the Windows 11 Task Manager startup tab
disable skype from task manager

Note: This step requires administrator privileges if your system settings are restricted.

Disable auto-login from within the Skype app

You can stop Skype from starting automatically and signing you in by changing a couple of settings right inside the Skype app itself.

  1. Open the Skype app.
  2. Click the three dots () near your profile name and select Settings.
Changing Skype settings to prevent automatic startup on Windows 11
disable skype auto start from app
  1. Select General from the menu on the left.
  2. Turn off the buttons for Automatically start Skype and On close, keep Skype running.
Toggling off the Runs at log-in option for Skype app
turn off skype on app settings

Summary

Stopping Skype from launching automatically is a simple way to help your computer run better.

Frequently Asked Questions





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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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0 Comments

  • Hariyanto Sahabuddin

    Great Article.
    I like the way you write this article or tutorial or how to ..
    BTW, what software are you using for the headline picture or (headline image)?
    May I know it?
    Thank you so very much

    Reply
  • I’m running Windows 11 build 22000.675. None of the above options exist in this build. The only way to stop Skype from running automatically is by editing the registry or changing the power option for Skype to Never. Windows has become a virus harboring viruses the average user can’t get rid of in the name of control and progress. (can you tell I dislike Windows)

    Reply

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