How do I add MS Outlook to the auto startup menu when it does not show up on the list?

George Holod 0 Reputation points
2026-10-07T23:27:02.65+00:00

How do I add MS Outlook to the auto startup menu when it does not show up on the list?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Settings
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  1. AI answer

    2026-10-07T23:27:14.5033333+00:00

    If Outlook does not appear in Start > Settings > Apps > Startup, add it through the Startup folder instead.

    1. Press Windows + R.
    2. Type shell:startup and press Enter.
      • This opens the current user Startup folder.
    3. Open Run again with Windows + R.
    4. Type shell:appsfolder and press Enter.
      • This opens the list of installed apps.
    5. Find Outlook in that apps list.
    6. Drag Outlook from the apps window into the Startup folder window.
      • This creates a shortcut so Outlook starts automatically when signing in.

    If Outlook is not listed in the Startup settings page, this File Explorer method is the supported alternative.

    For all users on the device, use shell:common startup instead of shell:startup. This affects every user who signs in.

    References:

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  2. IGYQ 22,235 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-10-08T00:47:27.18+00:00

    Hi!

    Welcome to the Microsoft Q&A forum.

    Could you please let me know what you mean by "it does not appear on the list" Which list are you referring to? This will help me provide you with the correct instructions.

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  3. Hendrix-V 20,215 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-10-08T04:51:22.24+00:00

    Hi George Holod,

    If Outlook does not appear under Startup apps, you can try adding its shortcut manually. Depending on your version, Outlook may also appear as Outlook (classic).

    Please try these quick checks:

    • Press Windows key + R, enter %ProgramData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs and press Enter.
    • Look for Outlook or Outlook (classic).
    • If the Outlook shortcut is missing, try an Office Quick Repair from Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features > Microsoft Office/Microsoft 365 > Change > Quick Repair.

    I hope this helps you get Outlook launching normally with Windows. Let me know if you need further assistance, feel free to ask me by clicking "Add Comment" or "Add Answer" if you cannot add comment so your response will be visible. Thanks for your effort.

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