AutoRun Manager

Overview

AutoRun Manager is a free Windows command-line utility for managing programs configured to launch at startup. It is best suited to users comfortable with an administrator Command Prompt who want focused control over startup entries. Its appeal is practical rather than broad: it handles startup configuration, but offers no graphical interface.

Key features

The utility displays startup programs and lets you add or remove entries. Because it works through the Windows Registry, it can change the configuration behind those launches; that makes it useful for targeted startup maintenance, not a general application manager.

Backup and restore cover the startup configuration, which can help preserve the entry list before changes. They do not include the programs themselves, so restoring a configuration cannot recover an application that has been removed. A separate command clears the entire startup list. That may suit a deliberate reset, but is too broad for selective cleanup.

Actions and errors are recorded in timestamped text files under My Documents\AutoRunManager, giving users a log to consult after a change. Running the tool requires opening Command Prompt as administrator and launching AutoRunManager.exe. It displays available commands on startup, but users who prefer visual controls will be better served elsewhere.

Pricing

There is no paid tier to unlock additional controls. The MIT License permits use and distribution free of charge, but provides the software without warranty; users should be comfortable accepting that limitation when making Registry changes.

Platforms

AutoRun Manager is for Windows. Its administrator Command Prompt requirement and Registry-based operation make it a poor fit for users seeking a cross-platform or graphical startup manager.

Who it's for

Choose AutoRun Manager if you want a free, narrowly focused way to inspect and edit Windows startup entries, and are comfortable using command-line instructions. Its backup and timestamped logs add useful safeguards and traceability, though the backup is limited to configuration. If you need visual controls or broader system-management features, another utility is a better fit.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Displays, adds, and removes startup entries, covering the core tasks of focused startup management.
• Pro: Backup and restore preserve startup configuration, while timestamped logs record actions and errors.
• Pro: Free under the MIT License, with permission to use and distribute.
• Con: Requires an administrator Command Prompt, which excludes users who expect a graphical interface.
• Con: Backups do not contain the programs themselves, so they cannot restore removed applications.
• Con: The all-entry removal command is indiscriminate, and Registry access calls for care.
• Con: The MIT License provides the software without warranty.

Alternatives

Browse Startup Manager Software for a broader comparison of tools in this category.

• Autorun Organizer is another free Windows option, with startup entry management, startup delay controls, and VirusTotal scanning; choose it if those extra controls matter.
• HiBit Startup Manager is free for Windows and adds startup monitoring plus Windows services and scheduled-task management, making it a better fit for wider system oversight.
• Autoruns is free Windows software with no limit on installs or use across devices you use or support; consider it if that device flexibility is important.
• BootRacer offers a free plan for non-commercial use and a Premium option; choose it if its boot-focused approach suits your needs.
• Win Startup Manager is another free Windows option for managing startup entries stored in the Registry.
• Argente Uninstall Manager offers a free Windows plan for one PC with less frequent donation reminders, alongside paid plans; consider it if you want an uninstall manager as well.
• Microsoft Quick Assist is free and supports Windows, macOS, and web for Microsoft Support interactions; choose it for that support use case instead.
• Corionis Service Manager.NET is a free Windows option for x86/x64 systems and Windows 7 through Windows Server 2016.

Verdict

AutoRun Manager is a sensible choice for Windows users who want free, direct control of startup entries and are comfortable working in an administrator Command Prompt. Its focused controls, configuration backup, and logs make a useful package for that audience. Look elsewhere if you need a graphical interface, backups of the applications themselves, or software covered by a warranty.