Meta Description
Tired of Discord automatically starting every time you boot up your computer? Learn how to stop Discord from opening on startup with our comprehensive guide. Whether you’re on Windows or Mac, we provide easy-to-follow methods to control your startup applications, helping you achieve a smoother and more efficient computing experience.
Introduction
Discord is a popular communication platform among gamers and communities, allowing users to chat via voice, video, and text. While many appreciate its features, some users find it frustrating when Discord automatically launches upon startup. This can slow down your computer and clutter your workflow, especially if you only use Discord occasionally. In this article, we will provide you with complete guidance on how to stop Discord from opening on startup, covering methods for both Windows and Mac users. By the end, you’ll understand several effective ways to take control of your startup applications, ensuring that your computer functions the way you want it to.
Why Disable Discord from Startup?
Before diving into the technical details, let’s briefly discuss why you might want to disable Discord from automatically opening at startup:
- System Performance: Automatically launching multiple applications, including Discord, can slow down your boot time and overall system performance, particularly on older machines or budget PCs.
- Distraction-Free Environment: For users who need to focus on tasks, having applications like Discord open can lead to distractions due to notifications and messages.
- Custom Usage: If you use Discord sporadically or only when gaming, keeping it closed until needed can provide a more customized and efficient user experience.
How to Stop Discord from Opening on Startup on Windows
Windows provides several methods to prevent applications from starting when your computer boots up. Here are a few effective ways to stop Discord from launching at startup:
Method 1: Using Task Manager
- Open Task Manager:
- Right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen and select Task Manager from the context menu. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager directly.
- Go to the Startup Tab:
- Once the Task Manager window is open, click on the Startup tab. This tab displays all the applications that are set to start when Windows boots.
- Locate Discord:
- Scroll through the list of applications until you find Discord.
- Disable Discord:
- Right-click on Discord and select Disable. This action will prevent Discord from launching automatically the next time you start your computer.
Method 2: Using Discord Settings
- Open Discord:
- Launch Discord if it isn’t already open.
- Access User Settings:
- Click on the User Settings (the gear icon located at the bottom left corner of the Discord window).
- Navigate to Windows Settings:
- Scroll down to the Windows Settings section in the sidebar.
- Disable Open Discord:
- Find the option labeled Open Discord and toggle it off. This will stop Discord from opening automatically when you log into Windows.
Method 3: Using System Configuration (msconfig)
- Open the Run Dialog:
- Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type msconfig:
- Type msconfig and press Enter. This will open the System Configuration window.
- Go to the Startup Tab:
- In the System Configuration window, click on the Startup tab, then click on Open Task Manager.
- Disable Discord:
- Find Discord in the Task Manager’s Startup tab, right-click it, and select Disable. Close Task Manager and click OK in the System Configuration window.
How to Stop Discord from Opening on Startup on Mac
For Mac users, preventing Discord from launching at startup involves a different procedure. Here’s how to stop Discord from opening automatically:
Method 1: Using System Preferences
- Open System Preferences:
- Click on the Apple icon in the top-left corner, and select System Preferences from the dropdown menu.
- Go to Users & Groups:
- In the System Preferences window, click on Users & Groups.
- Select Your User Account:
- In the Users & Groups section, select your user account from the list on the left.
- Navigate to Login Items:
- Click on the Login Items tab to view all applications set to launch at startup.
- Remove Discord:
- Find Discord in the list of login items. Highlight it, and then click the minus (-) button below the list to remove it. This will stop Discord from opening automatically when you log in.
Method 2: Using the Discord Application
- Open Discord:
- Start the Discord application if it’s not already open.
- Access User Settings:
- Click the User Settings (gear icon) located at the bottom left of the window.
- Go to MacOS Settings:
- Scroll down and find the MacOS Settings section.
- Disable Start Discord Minimized:
- If you see an option to Start Discord Minimised, make sure it is unchecked. This setting, while not directly preventing startup, can help if you prefer Discord to remain minimized instead of fully opening.
Additional Methods for Advanced Users
If you’re looking to take further control over your startup applications, consider these advanced methods:
Method 1: Editing the Registry (Windows Only)
Note: Be cautious when editing the registry. Incorrect changes can affect your system adversely.
- Open the Registry Editor:
- Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to Startup Entries:
- Go to the following path:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Look for Discord in the list of entries. - Delete the Discord Key:
- Right-click on the Discord entry and select Delete. Confirm when prompted.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Applications
There are third-party applications like CCleaner or Autoruns that can manage startup items easily. If you prefer using software tools, ensure they are from a reputable source to avoid security risks.
Conclusion
Managing startup applications is an important aspect of maintaining a smooth and efficient computing experience. With the clear instructions provided in this article, you should now know how to stop Discord from opening on startup. Whether you’re using Windows or Mac, you have the tools at your disposal to customize your startup settings effectively.
By disabling Discord from launching at startup, you improve your system’s boot time, reduce distractions, and tailor your computer’s performance to your needs. If you ever decide you want to re-enable Discord at startup, just follow the same steps and toggle the relevant settings back to their original state. Enjoy a more seamless and focused computing experience, free from unnecessary interruptions!
If you have questions or need further assistance on managing your startup applications or other Discord settings