Resolve Missing Startup Apps in Windows 11 Settings: A Comprehensive Guide

Key Notes

  • Check Group Policy settings to ensure Startup apps visibility.
  • Restore necessary Registry entries for Startup apps.
  • Ensure no obsolete entries are hindering the Startup apps list.

Resolving the Issue of Missing Startup Apps in Windows 11 Settings

Experiencing missing Startup apps in your Windows 11 Settings can be frustrating, as it limits your control over which programs launch on startup. In this guide, we’ll explore effective solutions to restore access to your Startup apps and enhance your user experience.

Resolving Missing Startup Apps in Windows 11 Settings

For users facing the issue of an absent Startup apps section in the Settings app on Windows 11, below are key solutions to try:

  1. Step 1: Check Visibility Settings in the Group Policy Editor
  2. Step 2: Repair or Restore Startup Page Registry Entries

Step 1: Check Visibility Settings in the Group Policy Editor

The Group Policy Editor may have settings that restrict access to the Startup page. Here’s how to adjust these settings:

  • Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  • Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to launch the Group Policy Editor.
  • Navigate to:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Control Panel

  • Locate the Settings Page Visibility option and double-click it.
  • In the new window, if the Enabled option is checked, it means the Startup page is hidden.
  • Remove the hide:startupapps entry if present. For instance, if you see hide:startupapps;defaultapps, just delete the startupapps part. If all settings appear unconfigured, select the Not Configured option.
  • Click Apply, then OK.

Check the Settings app under the Apps section again, and the Startup page should now be visible.

Step 2: Repair or Restore Startup Page Registry Entries

The Registry is vital for the operating system, and missing or altered entries can prevent the Startup page from displaying. Here’s how to fix it:

  • Type regedit in the Search bar and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  • Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System
  • Look for the SupportUwpStartupTasks DWORD (32-bit) value, double-click to modify, and set its Value data to 1.
  • Click OK and locate the SupportFullTrustStartupTasks DWORD. Update its Value data to 1 as well.
  • Change the EnableFullTrustStartupTasks DWORD value to 2.
  • Lastly, set EnableUwpStartupTasks DWORD value also to 2.
  • Close the Registry Editor once completed.

If specific entries are absent, feel free to create them following the same naming conventions and value adjustments as specified.

Open the Settings app again, and confirm that the Startup page is now visible in the Apps section.

Summary

This guide offered detailed instructions on troubleshooting missing Startup apps in Windows 11 Settings, emphasizing both Group Policy and Registry adjustments. Following these steps, you should be able to restore visibility and functionality to your Startup apps.

Conclusion

By following the solutions outlined in this guide, you can effectively manage your Startup apps and optimize your Windows 11 experience. Be sure to regularly check your settings to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What should I do if I still can’t see the Startup apps after following the steps?

If the issue persists, consider creating a new user account to see if the problem is account-specific, or perform a system restore to a point before the issue occurred.

Can I use third-party software to manage startup apps?

Yes, many third-party applications are available that can assist in managing startup applications; however, ensure that you choose reputable software to avoid further complications.