OneNote is a useful note-taking application that often starts automatically when you turn on your Windows 11 computer. While this can be helpful for some users, others may find it unnecessary and prefer to stop it from launching on startup.
Disabling OneNote on startup can help speed up your computer’s boot time and reduce background processes. This guide will show you simple, step-by-step instructions to turn off OneNote’s automatic startup.
The steps provided here are easy to follow, even if you are not very familiar with Windows 11 settings. By the end, you’ll have full control over when OneNote runs on your device.
Let’s get started with the quickest ways to disable OneNote from opening automatically.
Quick Note: Before You Begin
Make sure you are logged into an account with administrator privileges. This is necessary because changing startup programs requires system access.
It’s a good idea to save all your work and close other apps before making changes, just to avoid losing any data.
If you use OneNote frequently, consider that disabling startup won’t delete the app—it simply stops it from opening automatically.
Method 1: Disable OneNote from Task Manager
The Task Manager is a built-in Windows tool that controls many running processes and startup programs. Disabling OneNote here is quick and effective.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Right-click on the Start button (Windows icon) in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
From the menu that appears, click on Task Manager.
Step 2: Go to the Startup Tab
In the Task Manager window, look at the top tabs and click on the one labeled Startup.
This tab shows all programs that are set to start when your PC boots up.
Step 3: Find OneNote
Scroll through the list until you find Microsoft OneNote or simply OneNote.
If you don’t see OneNote, it might not be set to start automatically.
Step 4: Disable OneNote
Click on OneNote to select it.
Then click the Disable button in the bottom-right corner of the Task Manager window.
This action will prevent OneNote from launching automatically the next time you start your computer.
Method 2: Disable OneNote via Windows Settings
If you prefer using the Settings app, Windows 11 allows you to manage startup apps easily from there.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click on the Start button, then select the Settings icon (shaped like a gear).
Step 2: Navigate to Apps & Startup
Inside the Settings window, click on Apps in the left sidebar.
Then, select Startup from the list on the right.
Step 3: Locate OneNote
Scroll down the list of apps until you find OneNote.
Step 4: Turn Off OneNote
Toggle the switch next to OneNote to the Off position.
This disables OneNote from starting when Windows boots up.
Why Disabling Startup Programs Matters
Startup programs run automatically in the background, which can slow down your computer’s boot time. By disabling unnecessary apps like OneNote, you can improve overall system speed and reduce resource usage.
This is especially helpful if your device has limited RAM or processing power.
Alternative Method: Disable OneNote via OneNote Settings
Some versions of OneNote include an option inside the app itself to prevent automatic startup.
Step 1: Open OneNote
Launch the OneNote app from your Start menu.
Step 2: Access Settings
Click on the Settings and More (three dots) icon in the upper right corner.
Choose Settings from the dropdown.
Step 3: Disable Auto-Start
Look for an option related to startup behavior, such as “Start OneNote automatically when I sign in to Windows”.
Turn this option off to prevent OneNote from starting automatically.
Note that this option may not be available in all versions of OneNote.
FAQs
Will disabling OneNote on startup delete my notes?
No. Disabling OneNote on startup only stops it from opening automatically. Your notes and data remain saved and accessible whenever you open the app manually.
Can I re-enable OneNote startup later?
Yes. You can always go back to Task Manager or Windows Settings and enable OneNote to start automatically again.
What if OneNote still opens after disabling it?
Sometimes OneNote might reopen due to other settings or syncing options. Try checking the app’s internal settings or perform an update to ensure no background tasks force it to open.
Is it safe to disable OneNote from startup?
Absolutely. Disabling startup apps is a common way to optimize your PC performance without affecting the core functionality of the apps.
When Nothing Works
If OneNote continues to open on startup despite disabling it through Task Manager and Settings, try the following:
- Restart your computer after making changes to confirm they apply.
- Check for pending Windows updates and install them.
- Reset OneNote or reinstall it if issues persist.
- Visit the official Microsoft OneNote Support page for further assistance.
Conclusion
Disabling OneNote from starting automatically in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can improve your PC’s startup speed and reduce unnecessary background activity.
Using either the Task Manager or Windows Settings, you can easily prevent OneNote from launching without affecting your saved notes.
Remember to check for app-specific settings and keep your system updated to avoid any unexpected behavior.
Following this guide will help you customize your startup programs for a smoother and faster Windows 11 experience.