Discord is a popular communication app for gamers and communities. Sometimes, it automatically starts when you turn on your Windows 11 PC. This can slow down your startup or use system resources you don’t want to waste.
If you prefer to open Discord manually, you can stop it from launching on startup. This guide will walk you through simple and clear steps to prevent Discord from opening automatically.
We will cover multiple ways to disable Discord’s startup behavior, starting with the easiest methods. You don’t need to be a tech expert; each step is explained in detail.
By the end, you will have better control over your computer’s startup and improve your system’s speed if needed.
Quick Note Before You Begin
Before changing any settings, make sure Discord is **closed properly**. If it’s running, right-click the Discord icon in the system tray (bottom right corner) and select Quit Discord.
Also, keep in mind that some updates or reinstalling Discord may reset these startup settings. You might need to check them again in the future.
Method 1: Disable Discord from Windows Startup Apps
The simplest way to stop Discord from opening automatically is through Windows Startup settings.
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Click on the Start menu (Windows icon at the bottom-left corner) and select the Settings gear icon. Alternatively, press Windows + I on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to Startup Apps
In Settings, click on Apps in the sidebar, then select Startup from the list of options.
Step 3: Find Discord in the List
You will see all apps configured to start when Windows boots. Scroll down until you find Discord.
Step 4: Turn Off Discord
Next to Discord, toggle the switch to Off. This tells Windows not to launch Discord automatically on startup.
This method is straightforward and works because Windows controls which apps can start automatically. Disabling Discord here stops it at the system level.
Method 2: Change Discord’s Internal Settings
Discord also has a setting inside the app that controls startup behavior. Disabling it helps ensure Discord won’t start on its own.
Step 1: Open Discord
Launch Discord manually by clicking its icon or searching for it in the Start menu.
Step 2: Access User Settings
In Discord, look at the bottom-left corner and click on the gear icon near your username. This opens the User Settings menu.
Step 3: Go to Windows Settings
On the left sidebar inside User Settings, scroll down and click on Windows Settings.
Step 4: Disable “Open Discord” on Startup
Find the option labeled Open Discord and toggle it off. This prevents Discord from auto-launching when Windows starts.
This internal setting is important because Discord can override Windows settings sometimes. Disabling it here ensures the app itself won’t try to start.
Method 3: Use Task Manager to Disable Startup
If the previous methods don’t work, Task Manager gives another way to manage startup apps.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager. Or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc together.
Step 2: Go to the Startup Tab
In Task Manager, click the Startup tab at the top. This shows apps that launch at startup.
Step 3: Locate Discord
Find Discord in the list. If you don’t see it, make sure you clicked the More details button at the bottom.
Step 4: Disable Discord
Right-click Discord and select Disable. This stops it from launching automatically.
Task Manager reflects the actual state of your startup apps and can be useful if other controls don’t take effect.
Alternative Method: Rename the Discord Startup Folder Shortcut
For users comfortable with file management, you can also stop Discord from opening by removing or renaming its shortcut in the Startup folder.
Step 1: Open the Startup Folder
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog. Type shell:startup and press Enter.
Step 2: Find Discord Shortcut
Look for a Discord shortcut in the folder. If it’s there, right-click it and choose Delete or rename it (e.g., add “_disabled” at the end).
This method prevents Windows from launching Discord via the Startup folder, another place Windows checks during boot.
FAQs
Q: Why does Discord keep opening even after I disable startup?
Sometimes Discord’s internal setting or updates may reset startup preferences. Double-check both Windows startup settings and Discord’s own settings.
Q: Can I re-enable Discord to open on startup later?
Yes, simply go back to the same settings and toggle the option on again.
Q: Will disabling Discord startup affect notifications?
If Discord is not running, you won’t receive notifications until you manually open the app.
Q: Does stopping Discord from starting improve PC performance?
It can help reduce startup time and free up system resources, especially on slower PCs.
Q: Can I use third-party apps to control startup programs?
Yes, but it’s safer to use built-in Windows tools or Discord’s settings to avoid potential issues.
When Nothing Works
If Discord still opens on startup despite following these steps, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app. This can reset settings and fix glitches.
You can download the latest version of Discord from the official website: https://discord.com/download
For more help, visit Discord’s official support page: https://support.discord.com/
Conclusion
Stopping Discord from opening on startup in Windows 11 can be done easily through Windows startup settings, Discord’s internal options, or Task Manager. Each method helps you control when and how Discord runs, improving your PC’s startup speed and reducing unwanted background apps.
Remember to check both Windows and Discord settings for the best results. If problems persist, uninstalling and reinstalling Discord or seeking official support is the next step.
By following this guide, you can enjoy a smoother startup experience and open Discord only when you want.