How to Toggle ‘Open at Computer Login’ in Signal Desktop

This guide explains how to control whether the Signal Desktop app opens automatically when you start your computer.

Signal is a popular messaging app that keeps your chats private. It lets you send messages, make calls, and share files from your computer.

Why change this setting?

You might want the app to open automatically if you use it every day. If you rarely use the app, turning this off helps your computer start faster and saves memory by keeping the app closed until you need it.

What happens when you change this?

When enabled, Signal starts as soon as you log in to Windows. When disabled, the app stays closed until you manually open it.

Steps to Toggle Open at Computer Login

1. Open the Signal app from your Start menu.

2. You can also launch it from the Taskbar or Taskbar overflow.

3. Once the app is open, click File and select Preferences. You can also press CTRL + , on your keyboard, or click the Settings (gear) icon in the bottom left corner.

4. In the Preferences window, click General on the left side. Look for the System section on the right.

5. Check the box for Open at computer login to have it open automatically. Uncheck the box to stop it from opening.

6. If you want the app to run in the background without a window popping up, check the box that says Minimize to system tray.

When you use the Minimize to system tray option, the app will run quietly in your Taskbar app overflow pane.

Summary

Managing your startup apps keeps your computer running smoothly. By toggling the “Open at computer login” feature, you decide whether Signal is ready to go the moment you log in or if it waits for you to launch it. Using the “Minimize to system tray” option is a great way to keep your desktop clean while staying connected.