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How to Prevent Google Chrome From Opening Automatically at Startup

Key Takeaways

  • Google Chrome may open automatically on startup due to various reasons like running background apps, startup tasks, or potentially unwanted programs
  • There are multiple ways to stop Chrome from opening on startup, including disabling it from browser settings, task manager, registry editor, or resetting Chrome
  • Following best practices and regularly maintaining your system can prevent Chrome and other apps from launching unexpectedly during startup

As an experienced technical writer with over 8 years of experience in the software industry, I understand how frustrating it can be when applications launch automatically without your consent, slowing down your system’s boot time. Google Chrome is a popular web browser, but it’s not uncommon for users to face issues with it opening on startup, even after removing it from the startup list. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through various methods to prevent Chrome from opening automatically when you turn on your computer.

Disable Background Apps in Chrome

One of the main reasons Chrome opens on startup is because it continues running background apps even after you’ve closed the browser window. To stop this behavior, follow these steps:

  1. Open Google Chrome
  2. Click on the three vertical dots in the top-right corner and select “Settings”
  3. Scroll down and click on “Advanced”
  4. Under the “System” section, toggle off the option “Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed”
  5. Restart your computer

By disabling background apps, you’re essentially telling Chrome not to keep running in the background, which should prevent it from launching on startup.

Remove Chrome from Startup Apps

Windows has a built-in feature that allows you to manage startup applications. Here’s how you can remove Chrome from the startup list:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager
  2. Navigate to the “Startup” tab
  3. Look for “Google Chrome” in the list of startup apps
  4. Right-click on it and select “Disable”
  5. Close the Task Manager and restart your computer

Alternatively, you can search for “Startup Apps” in the Windows search bar, open the settings, and toggle off Chrome from the list of startup applications.

Clear Chrome’s AutoLaunch Folder

Sometimes, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) or malware can add websites or extensions to Chrome’s AutoLaunch folder, causing it to open automatically. To fix this issue, you’ll need to clear the AutoLaunch folder:

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box
  2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor
  3. Navigate to Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\StartupApproved\Run
  4. Delete any suspicious or unknown entries from the right pane
  5. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer

Warning: Be extremely careful when making changes to the Registry Editor, as incorrect modifications can cause serious issues with your system.

Reinstall or Reset Google Chrome

If none of the above methods work, you can try reinstalling or resetting Google Chrome to its default settings:

  1. Open the Chrome browser
  2. Click on the three vertical dots and go to “Settings”
  3. Scroll down and click on “Advanced”
  4. Under the “Reset and clean up” section, click on “Restore settings to their original defaults”
  5. Click “Reset settings” to confirm

Resetting Chrome will remove all extensions, clear browsing data, and restore default settings, which should resolve any issues causing it to open on startup.

Maintain Your System Regularly

To prevent Chrome and other apps from launching unexpectedly during startup, it’s essential to maintain your system regularly. Here are some best practices to follow:

  • Keep your software updated: Regularly update your operating system, browsers, and other software to ensure you have the latest security patches and bug fixes.
  • Use an antivirus/anti-malware solution: Install a reputable antivirus and anti-malware solution to protect your system from potentially unwanted programs and malicious software that can cause issues like unwanted app launches.
  • Uninstall unused programs: Periodically review the list of installed programs on your computer and uninstall any that you no longer need or use. Unused programs can sometimes cause conflicts or launch unexpectedly.
  • Perform regular system maintenance: Use built-in tools like Disk Cleanup, Defragment and Optimize Drives, and System File Checker to keep your system running smoothly and prevent issues.

By following these best practices and the methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively prevent Google Chrome from opening automatically at startup, improving your system’s boot time and overall performance.

In conclusion, while Google Chrome is a popular and powerful web browser, its tendency to launch on startup can be frustrating and resource-intensive. By disabling background apps, removing it from startup lists, clearing the AutoLaunch folder, or resetting the browser, you can take control of when and how Chrome opens on your system. Remember to maintain your system regularly to prevent similar issues with other applications and ensure optimal performance.

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