Introduction
Some users have reported facing the issue of Internet Explorer opening automatically on startup in Windows 10. This not only consumes system resources but can also be annoying if you don’t use Internet Explorer as your default internet browser. The purpose of this article is to guide readers on how to stop Internet Explorer from opening on startup in Windows 10.
Why Does Internet Explorer Open on Startup?
Reasons for Internet Explorer Opening on Startup
There could be several reasons causing this issue, such as:
1. A third-party application may be set to launch Internet Explorer on startup
2. A pinned Internet Explorer link could be added to the ‘Startup’ folder
3. The system registry might have a key that automatically opens Internet Explorer
Why Stop Internet Explorer from Opening Automatically?
Stopping Internet Explorer from opening automatically on startup can provide several benefits, including:
1. Faster startup times for your computer
2. Reduced system resource usage
3. Less annoyance if you use a different default web browser
How to Stop Internet Explorer from Opening on Startup Windows 10
Method 1: Using Task Manager
1. Step 1: Open Task Manager
Press ‘Ctrl + Shift + Esc’ to open the Task Manager, then click on the ‘Startup’ tab.
2. Step 2: Disable Internet Explorer from Startup
Locate ‘Internet Explorer’ in the list of startup items, right-click on it, and select ‘Disable’ to stop it from opening on startup.
Method 2: Using System Configuration
1. Step 1: Open System Configuration
Press ‘Win + R’ to open the Run dialog box, enter ‘msconfig’ and press ‘Enter’ to open the System Configuration window.
2. Step 2: Disable Internet Explorer from Startup
Navigate to the ‘Startup’ tab in the System Configuration window. Uncheck the box next to ‘Internet Explorer,’ then click ‘OK’ to save your changes and stop Internet Explorer from opening on startup.
Method 3: Edit the Registry
1. Step 1: Launch Registry Editor
Press ‘Win + R’ to open the Run dialog box, enter ‘regedit’ and press ‘Enter’ to open the Registry Editor.
2. Step 2: Disable Internet Explorer from Startup
Navigate to the following registry key: ‘HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\Run’
Look for a value containing the path to Internet Explorer. Right-click on the value, and select ‘Delete’ to remove it. This will stop Internet Explorer from opening on startup.
Method 4: Uninstall Internet Explorer
1. Step 1: Access Control Panel
Press ‘Win + X’, select ‘Control Panel’ from the quick access menu.
2. Step 2: Uninstall Internet Explorer
In the Control Panel, click on ‘Programs’ > ‘Programs and Features’ > ‘Turn Windows Features on or off’. Uncheck the box next to ‘Internet Explorer 11’ and click ‘OK’. Restart your computer to finalize the removal of Internet Explorer.
Conclusion
By following these methods, you can successfully stop Internet Explorer from opening on startup in Windows 10. It is essential to keep your computer’s startup processes clean and optimized to ensure a smooth user experience. It’s time to embrace new technologies and web browsers to get the best out of your internet browsing experience.
FAQ Section
1. Can I choose another web browser to open on startup instead of Internet Explorer?
Yes, you can choose any web browser that you prefer to open on startup by adding a shortcut to the browser in the ‘Startup’ folder.
2. Can disabling Internet Explorer from startup impact functionality?
No, this process only stops Internet Explorer from automatically opening on startup. You can still use Internet Explorer whenever you want by running it manually.
3. Is removing Internet Explorer entirely from Windows 10 recommended?
If you don’t use Internet Explorer and prefer a different web browser, you can safely uninstall it without any adverse effects on your computer.
4. Can I reinstall Internet Explorer after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can reinstall Internet Explorer by going to ‘Control Panel’ > ‘Programs’ > ‘Programs and Features’ > ‘Turn Windows Features on or off’ and checking the box next to ‘Internet Explorer 11.’
5. If I stop Internet Explorer from opening on startup, will it affect the performance of other web browsers?
No, stopping Internet Explorer from opening on startup will not impact the performance of other web browsers on your computer.
6. Can I restrict specific websites from opening in Internet Explorer on startup?
Yes, you can set up a custom filter using Windows Hosts file or Internet Restricted Zone settings to block specific websites from opening in Internet Explorer.
7. How do I change the default web browser on Windows 10?
To change the default web browser, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Apps’ > ‘Default apps.’ Scroll down to ‘Web browser’ and click on the current default browser icon to choose a different web browser from the list.