How to Resolve Blank Startup Apps in Windows 11 Task Manager

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix the issue of Blank Startup Apps in Windows 11 Task Manager. The Task Manager in Windows 11 version 22H2 comes with a fresh design based on Fluent UI and WinUI. With this update, you’ll notice a rearrangement of options like “Processes, Performance, App History, Startup apps, Users, Details, and Services,” now conveniently placed on the left-hand side.

Despite these user interface enhancements, a common issue arises, particularly with the Startup Apps section, where users encounter a blank display. This section is crucial as it lists applications that automatically run when the system starts, encompassing both system and user apps, along with certain Registry entries.

Facing problems with this tab can make it challenging for users to track running processes effectively. Fortunately, there’s a simple method to address this bug. Let’s dive into the solution without delay.

Step 1: Establishing Startup Folders

Begin by creating Startup folders in two distinct directories. If these folders already exist, feel free to proceed to the next step. Additionally, you can create the Startup Folder using any of the three methods provided below, choosing the one that aligns with your preferences.

Via File Explorer:

1. Open File Explorer using the Windows+E shortcut keys.
2. Copy and paste the following location into the address bar: %userprofile%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs
3. Create a new folder named “Startup” if it doesn’t already exist.
4. Navigate to the following location: %programdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs
5. Once again, create a new folder named “Startup” if it’s not already present.
6. Restart your PC, and the startup apps should now be visible.

Via Command Prompt:

1. Launch Command Prompt from the Start menu.
2. Execute the following two commands:
   md “%userprofile%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup”
   md “%programdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup”

Via PowerShell:

1. Launch PowerShell from the Start menu.
2. Execute the following two commands (ignore any errors you may encounter):
   mkdir “$env:userprofile\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup”
   mkdir “$env:programdata\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup”

Implement these steps, and after restarting your PC, the startup apps should be restored.

STEP 2: Rectify Registry Files

1. Launch the Run dialog by pressing Windows+R, type “regedit,” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
2. Copy and paste the following location into the address bar and press Enter: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders
3. Locate and open the “Startup” string value on the right side.
4. Verify that the “Value Data” matches the following: %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup
5. If the value differs, promptly make the necessary correction.
6. Restart your PC to apply the changes.

Ensuring that the Registry’s “Startup” string value aligns with the specified path should resolve the issue. After restarting, your startup apps should function as expected.

Conclusion

In conclusion, following these steps should resolve the problem of Blank Startup Apps in Task Manager. If you have any questions regarding the provided instructions, feel free to leave a comment. We’ll promptly address your queries and provide a solution.