While the default setting in Windows is to allow Skype to automatically startup with the computer, it also provides the option to stop Skype from automatically starting up with the computer.
The reason for allowing Skype to automatically start up with the computer is make Skype available for your use, as soon as you are logged-in to the computer.
However, if Skype is not your go-to or the most frequently app, you can stop Skype from starting up with the computer and manually launch Skype, only when you want to use it.
Stop Skype from Starting Automatically in Windows 11/10
In general, Windows computers come pre-loaded with Skype Preview App and users end up downloading Skype Desktop App from Microsoft’s official website for Skype.
Hence, we are providing below the steps to prevent both Skype Desktop and Skype Preview App from automatically starting up with the computer.
1. Stop Skype Desktop from Starting Up Automatically
If you are using Skype Desktop program, you can follow the steps below to prevent Skype Desktop App from starting automatically with the computer.
1. Open Skype Desktop App on your computer > Sign-in to Skype using your Microsoft Account.
2. Once you are signed-in, click on 3-dots icon and select Settings in the drop-down menu.
3. On Skype settings screen, disable Automatically start Skype option by moving the slider to OFF position.
Note: You can also disable Launch Skype in background and Upon closing, keep Skype running options, to prevent Skype from running in background, even after it is closed.
4. Make sure you restart the computer to apply this change.
When the computer restarts, you should no longer find Skype desktop starting up with the computer. It will start, only when you manually start or launch the Skype App on the computer.
2. Prevent Skype Desktop Auto Start Using Settings
You can also prevent or stop Skype Desktop from automatically starting up with the computer by using the Settings App.
1. Go to Settings > Apps > scroll down in the right-pane and click on the Startup tab.
2. On the Startup screen, disable Skype Auto start by moving the toggle next to Skype to OFF position.
After this, Skype won’t be able to automatically startup with the computer.
3. Stop Skype Preview from Starting Automatically
If your computer came pre-loaded with Skype Preview App, it is very likely that it has prompted you to login using your Microsoft Account.
Once you sign-in to Skype Preview App, it will keep you permanently signed-in and you will find it starting up with the computer.
1. Click on Start button > scroll down the list of Apps and click on Skype Preview.
2. On the next screen, click on your Profile icon (bottom-left corner) > scroll down in the right-pane and select the Sign Out option.
This will sign you out of Skype Preview App and you won’t find Skype Preview starting automatically on your computer.