Start Programs When You Start Your PC

Many people start their work day by firing up their computer and then opening the applications they always use, such as Microsoft Outlook and Word. If you would like certain programs to open automatically when you start your computer, Windows provides a folder called Startup, that is made for this purpose.

To put a program in the Startup folder:

Windows XP

1. Click the Start button and choose All Programs.
2. Choose the program you want to automatically start. For example, go into the Microsoft Office folder and then point to Outlook.
3. Drag the program to rest over the Startup folder on the Start menu. When the Startup folder displays a list of programs, point to where you want the program to appear, and then release the mouse.

     If you can't drag programs within the Start menu:

     a) Right-click Start, and then click Properties.

     b) In the dialog box, click the Start Menu tab.

     c) Click Customize.

     d) In the dialog box, click the Advanced tab.

     e) Check the Enable dragging and dropping box in the Start menu items list.

     f) Click OK twice.

Windows 98 and 2000

1. Click on the Windows Start menu, choose Settings, and then click Taskbar & Start Menu.
2. Click the Advanced tab, then click Add and Browse.
3. Locate the program you want to automatically start and select it. Click OK.
4. Click Next, then locate and double-click the Startup folder.
5. Type the name that you want to see on the menu, and then click Finish.
6. Click OK in the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box.

First Choice/Your Choice packs tips like these into their computer training programs throughout the Chicago area. For timely assistance with individual questions, the Help, I'm Stuck application support program is available nationwide.

Return to the main Tips & Tricks page