Application Autostart

by Wayne Maples [Published on 20 April 2004 / Last Updated on 20 April 2004]

You have an application that starts everytime you logon. Why? The obvious place to check is the Startup folder: right-click Start, Open, double-click Programs, double-click Startup folder. If its not in Startup, there are several places that a hidden application can autostart:
  • HKCU\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows contains a Run Key.
  • A similar structure is in HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT.
  • Additionally, HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon will have a Shell Key. Be very careful here. The default entry contains EXPLORER.EXE. A comma separates any additional data. If you edit this entry, be sure to remove the referencing file, and the comma just preceding it.

    Another Key in this same area is UserInit. Again, be very cautious, the default entry is USERINIT, NDDEAGNT.EXE. Do not remove this value.

A good solution is to download AutoStart Guard, the Freeware Autostart Viewing, Alerting & Control System for Window.

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