Got Windows 11? You might see Microsoft Teams ready to go as soon as you start up. It’s handy for some, but not for everyone, especially if you don’t use Teams much. If you don’t like Teams popping up every time you turn on your computer, you’re in the right place. This guide will show you how to stop Teams from starting automatically on your Windows 11 PC.
Also see: How to Disable Startup Programs in Windows 11
Page Contents
Method 1: Stop Microsoft Teams from starting automatically via its settings
This way is pretty simple. If you’ve got Microsoft Teams running, start here.
- Open Microsoft Teams. It’s in your system tray if it’s open. If not, just look for it in the start menu and open it.
- Once it’s open, click the three-dot icon near your profile pic on the top right. A menu will appear.
- In that menu, click “Settings”.
- Go to the General tab.
- Find “Auto-start application” and uncheck it.
- Close Settings, and Teams won’t start with Windows 11 anymore.
This method is good if you still like using Teams occasionally without it auto-starting.
Related resource: How to Unpin Chat From Windows 11 Taskbar
Method 2: Disable Teams as startup program using Task Manager
The Task Manager in Windows lets you check out what’s happening with your PC, including apps that start with your PC.
- Press CTRL + SHIFT + ESC on your keyboard to open Task Manager. Or, right-click the taskbar and select “Task Manager” from the menu.
- Go to the “Startup” tab.
- Find “Microsoft Teams” in the list.
- Select Microsoft Teams.
- Click the “Disable” button at the top.
This stops Teams from loading when you start your PC, which can help it boot faster.
Useful tip: How to Disable or Remove OneDrive From Windows 11
Method 3: Prevent Teams from starting automatically using the Windows Settings
Windows 11 makes it easy to manage startup apps right from the Settings.
- Press the Start button or the Windows key to open the Start Menu.
- Open “Settings”.
- Click “Apps” on the left.
- Click “Startup”.
- Find “Microsoft Teams” in the list.
- Turn off the toggle next to Teams to stop it from starting up.
This part of Settings is easy to use, showing you how each app affects startup time.
Handy guide: How to Know Which App is Using The Internet in Windows 11
Tip: Setting Microsoft Teams to “Away” when not in use
If Teams is running but you don’t want to be disturbed, setting your status to “Away” or “Do Not Disturb” can help keep notifications away while you’re busy.
- Open your Microsoft Teams app.
- Click your profile picture at the top right.
- Hover over “Set status message” for more status options.
- Choose your status:
- “Available” if you’re free to chat.
- “Away” if you’re not using Teams right now.
- “Do not disturb” to keep notifications off.
- “Be right back” for short breaks.
- “Appear offline” to stay hidden.
- To automatically go “Away” after being inactive, change the setting in “Settings” > “Status”.
Closing remarks
And there you go, ways to stop Microsoft Teams from starting with Windows 11. Choose the one that suits you best and keep an eye on those startup apps for a smoother, faster computer startup.
