How to Stop Skype from Starting Automatically on Windows 11
Stopping Skype from starting automatically on Windows 11 prevents the app from launching when you turn on your PC.
Startup apps are programs that open by themselves right after your computer boots up. Many people find that Skype turns this on by default when you install it.
This setting often starts Skype even if you don’t need it running immediately. Disabling it can make your Windows 11 PC start up faster and free up computer resources for other tasks.
Windows 11 has a simple way to manage these startup apps through its Settings menu.
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
Disable the Microsoft Store version of Skype. If you downloaded Skype from the Microsoft Store, here’s how to disable its auto-start:
- Click the Start button and type “Skype.”
- Right-click the Skype icon and select App settings.
- Look for the section labeled Runs at log-in.
- Toggle the switch to the Off position.
Disable the traditional desktop version of Skype
The traditional desktop version of Skype can be stopped from starting automatically by disabling it in the Windows Task Manager’s startup list. This prevents Skype from opening when your computer starts.
- Click the Start button and search for Task Manager. Open it.
- Click the Startup tab. (Note: If you do not see tabs, click More details first.)
- Find Skype in the list.
- Right-click on it and choose Disable.
Disable auto-login from within the Skype app
Stopping Skype from starting automatically and signing you in can be achieved by changing a couple of settings directly within the Skype app. This method stops Skype from launching and logging you into your account when Windows starts.
- Open the Skype app.
- Click the three dots (…) near your profile name and select Settings.
- Select General from the menu on the left.
- Turn off the buttons for Automatically start Skype and On close, keep Skype running.
Summary
Stopping Skype from launching automatically is a way to help your computer run better.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I disable automatic startup?
Automatic startup for apps like Skype can be disabled. For the Microsoft Store version, go to its App settings and turn off ‘Runs at log-in.’ For the desktop version, open Task Manager, go to the Startup tab, find Skype, and disable it.
Why does Skype open when I start my computer?
Skype often opens automatically because it’s configured to start when Windows begins. This is usually a default setting when you install it. You can turn this off in Skype’s settings or through Windows Task Manager to prevent it from launching automatically.
How do I stop Skype from autostarting in Ubuntu?
In Ubuntu, you can stop Skype from starting automatically by going to Skype’s Settings. Look for a section like ‘General’ and uncheck the option that says ‘Automatically start Skype’ or similar. This prevents it from launching when you log in.
How do I stop a process from automatically starting?
To stop a process from starting automatically, use Windows Task Manager. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open it, then go to the ‘Startup’ tab. Find the program you want to stop, right-click it, and select ‘Disable’.
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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.
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
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)
same problem