It can be frustrating when your PC automatically starts up as soon as you plug it into power. This behavior might interrupt your workflow or cause unwanted power consumption. Fortunately, Windows 11 offers ways to fix this issue, and you don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.
This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step instructions to stop your PC from turning on automatically when plugged in. Each step is explained clearly so you can understand why it matters and how to perform it.
Whether you have a desktop or a laptop, these solutions apply broadly. By the end, you’ll be able to control your PC’s power behavior more effectively.
Let’s start by checking some quick settings that often cause this automatic startup problem.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
Before diving into detailed fixes, please make sure of the following:
- Save all your work. Some steps may require restarting your computer.
- Use an administrator account. You need admin rights to change system settings.
- Check your BIOS/UEFI settings. Many auto-start issues come from your motherboard’s power management features.
- Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Updates can fix bugs related to power management.
Step 1: Disable “Fast Startup” in Windows 11
Fast Startup is a feature that helps your PC boot faster but can cause it to turn on automatically when power is applied. Disabling it often solves the problem.
- Click on the Start button and open Settings.
- Go to System > Power & battery.
- Scroll down and click on Additional power settings under the “Related settings” section. This opens the Power Options window.
- In the left sidebar, click on Choose what the power buttons do.
- Click on Change settings that are currently unavailable at the top.
- Under “Shutdown settings,” uncheck the box next to Turn on fast startup (recommended).
- Click Save changes and restart your PC.
Why this matters: Fast Startup keeps your system partially hibernated, which can sometimes cause the PC to power on when it detects power input. Disabling it forces a full shutdown, preventing auto-start.
Step 2: Check and Disable Wake Timers
Wake timers allow your PC to wake up automatically for scheduled tasks, which could trigger startup when plugged in.
- Open Settings and go to System > Power & battery.
- Click on Additional power settings again to open the classic Power Options window.
- Next to your active power plan, click Change plan settings.
- Click Change advanced power settings.
- In the popup window, expand the Sleep section.
- Expand Allow wake timers and set both “On battery” and “Plugged in” to Disable.
- Click Apply and then OK.
Why this matters: With wake timers disabled, your PC won’t start at scheduled times or events when power is applied.
Step 3: Disable Power On by USB or Network in BIOS/UEFI
Sometimes, your PC’s motherboard settings allow devices like USB keyboards or network cards to turn the computer on automatically.
- Restart your PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. Usually, this is done by pressing Delete, F2, or Esc during boot (check your PC’s manual for the exact key).
- Look for settings named Power Management, Wake on USB, Wake on LAN, or similar.
- Disable any options that allow the PC to turn on from USB devices or network activity.
- Save the changes and exit BIOS/UEFI.
Why this matters: These options can cause the PC to power up unexpectedly when it detects signals from peripherals or the network.
Step 4: Check “Power On by AC” or “Restore on AC Power Loss” Settings in BIOS/UEFI
Some systems have a special setting that powers on the PC automatically when AC power is restored or connected.
- Enter BIOS/UEFI as described in Step 3.
- Navigate to the Power or Advanced tab.
- Find an option named Power On by AC, Restore on AC Power Loss, or similar.
- Change it to Disabled or Stay Off.
- Save and exit.
Why this matters: If enabled, the PC will automatically start when the power cable is plugged in or after a power outage.
Alternative Method: Use Device Manager to Prevent Wake-ups
If your PC still powers on unexpectedly, some devices might be waking it up. You can disable this behavior for specific devices.
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand categories such as Keyboards, Network adapters, and Mice and other pointing devices.
- Right-click each device and select Properties.
- Go to the Power Management tab.
- Uncheck the box that says Allow this device to wake the computer.
- Click OK and repeat for other devices you suspect might cause wake-ups.
Why this matters: Devices that can wake your PC will cause it to start unexpectedly when power is connected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why does my PC start automatically when I plug it in?
This often happens because of BIOS/UEFI settings like “Power On by AC” or Windows features like Fast Startup. External devices and wake timers can also trigger automatic power-on.
Is it safe to disable Fast Startup?
Yes, disabling Fast Startup will not harm your PC. It just means your computer will take a few seconds longer to boot up but might fix power-related issues.
Can software updates fix this problem?
Sometimes, yes. Windows updates may improve power management, so it’s always good to keep your system updated.
Will changing BIOS settings void my warranty?
Adjusting BIOS settings usually does not void warranties, but be careful not to change unrelated settings. Always note changes you make.
What if my PC still powers on automatically after all these steps?
It might be a hardware issue or a rare software conflict. Further troubleshooting or professional help may be needed.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the above steps and your PC still starts automatically when plugged in, consider the following:
- Check your PC manufacturer’s support site for model-specific BIOS updates or advice.
- Reset your BIOS/UEFI to default settings in case previous tweaks are causing conflicts.
- Contact technical support for your device.
- Search Microsoft’s official Windows 11 forums or support pages for related issues.
Conclusion
Stopping your PC from automatically starting when plugged in is usually a matter of adjusting a few key settings in Windows and BIOS/UEFI. Disabling Fast Startup and wake timers, along with checking power management options in BIOS, can solve most cases.
Remember to proceed step-by-step, starting with the simplest fixes before moving to advanced options. With a bit of patience, you’ll regain control over when your PC powers on.