Google Chrome sometimes opens automatically when you start your Windows 11 computer. This can be annoying if you don’t want it to launch every time you turn on your PC.
Fortunately, there are several simple ways to stop Chrome from opening on startup. You don’t need to be a tech expert to fix this issue.
In this guide, we will walk you through easy and clear steps to control Chrome’s startup behavior.
Follow along carefully and you’ll have Chrome opening only when you want it to.
Quick Note Before You Begin
Before making any changes, check if you have any Chrome windows or tabs saved to reopen automatically. Chrome can be set to restore the last session, which causes it to launch on startup.
Also, be aware that some apps or Windows settings may force Chrome to open at startup without your direct action.
Make sure you have administrative access on your Windows 11 PC, as some settings require it.
Step 1: Disable Chrome from Startup Apps in Task Manager
The easiest way to stop Chrome opening on startup is to disable it from Windows startup apps. This prevents Windows from launching Chrome automatically.
- Right-click the Start button on your taskbar and select Task Manager.
- If Task Manager opens in a simple view, click More details at the bottom.
- Go to the Startup tab in Task Manager.
- Look for Google Chrome in the list of startup programs.
- Select Chrome, then click the Disable button in the bottom right corner.
- Close Task Manager.
Why this matters: Disabling Chrome here stops Windows from automatically launching it during startup. This is often the main reason Chrome opens by itself.
Step 2: Change Chrome’s Settings to Prevent Automatic Startup
Chrome can be set to reopen tabs from your last browsing session when you launch it. Changing this setting stops Chrome from opening old tabs automatically.
- Open Google Chrome.
- Click the three dots in the top-right corner to open the menu.
- Select Settings.
- From the left sidebar, click On startup.
- Select Open the New Tab page instead of “Continue where you left off” or “Open a specific page or set of pages.”
Why this matters: If Chrome reopens tabs at launch, it may feel like it’s starting on its own. Changing this setting makes sure Chrome opens with a blank new tab.
Step 3: Check Windows Settings for Background Apps
Windows 11 allows some apps to run in the background and launch automatically. Chrome may be allowed to do this.
- Click the Start button and open Settings (you can press
Windows + I). - Go to Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Google Chrome in the list and click the three dots next to it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down to the Background apps permissions section.
- Change the permission to Never to prevent Chrome from running in the background.
Why this matters: Background apps can trigger Chrome to start without you manually opening it. Disabling this stops unwanted automatic launches.
Step 4: Remove Chrome from the Startup Folder
Windows has a special folder where shortcuts to programs that open on startup are stored. Make sure Chrome isn’t included here.
- Press
Windows + Rto open the Run dialog box. - Type
shell:startupand press Enter. - This opens the Startup folder.
- If you see a Google Chrome shortcut here, right-click it and select Delete.
Why this matters: If Chrome is in the Startup folder, Windows will open it every time you log in. Removing it stops this behavior.
Alternative Method: Use Windows Settings to Manage Startup Apps
You can also disable Chrome from startup using Windows Settings instead of Task Manager.
- Open Settings by pressing
Windows + I. - Go to Apps > Startup.
- Find Google Chrome in the list.
- Toggle the switch off to disable Chrome from starting automatically.
This method is very straightforward and works the same as Task Manager for startup app control.
FAQs
Why does Chrome keep opening on startup even after I disable it?
Sometimes, Chrome may reopen due to background apps permission or because another program triggers it. Check background app permissions and any Chrome extensions that might reopen it.
Can malware cause Chrome to open on startup?
Yes, some malware or unwanted software can force Chrome to open. Running a trusted antivirus scan is a good idea if the problem persists.
Does Chrome update cause it to open on startup?
Chrome updates generally don’t cause it to open automatically, but an update process or cleanup might trigger it once. If it happens repeatedly, check startup settings.
Will uninstalling and reinstalling Chrome fix this issue?
Reinstalling Chrome can reset its settings and may fix the problem if it is caused by corrupted files or settings.
Is there a way to stop Chrome from running in the background after closing it?
Yes, you can disable background running from Chrome’s own settings by going to Settings > System and performance and toggling off Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed.
When Nothing Works
If the above steps don’t solve the issue, you can try the following final options:
- Reset Chrome settings: Go to Chrome Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Create a new Windows user profile: Sometimes corrupted user profiles cause startup issues.
- Scan for malware: Use Windows Defender or a reputable antivirus to scan your system.
- Visit Google Support: Official help and forums can offer additional assistance: Google Chrome Help.
Conclusion
Stopping Chrome from opening on startup in Windows 11 is usually easy to fix with a few simple settings changes. Start by disabling Chrome in Task Manager or Windows startup apps. Then adjust Chrome’s own settings to prevent automatic reopening of tabs.
Checking background app permissions and the Startup folder ensures no hidden shortcuts cause Chrome to launch. If problems continue, resetting Chrome or scanning for malware can help.
By following these detailed steps, you can control when Chrome opens and enjoy a faster, less intrusive startup experience on your Windows 11 PC.