autorunners

Autorunners, also known as auto-executing programs or startup programs, are software applications or scripts that are configured to launch automatically when a computer's operating system starts up. This automation is typically achieved by placing shortcuts or the executable files themselves into specific system folders or registry keys. When the operating system boots, it scans these designated locations and launches any identified programs.

The primary purpose of autorunners is to provide convenience by ensuring that frequently used applications or essential background services are readily available without manual intervention. This can include antivirus software, cloud storage clients, media players, or system utilities. Many applications automatically add themselves to the startup list during installation to ensure their services are always running.

However, the overuse or misconfiguration of autorunners can lead to several drawbacks. A large number of startup programs can significantly increase the boot time of a computer, as the system must load and initialize each one. Additionally, some autorunners consume system resources such as RAM and CPU cycles, even if they are not actively being used, which can slow down the overall performance of the machine. Malicious software can also disguise itself as an autorunner to maintain persistence on a system, launching automatically with each startup to evade detection and removal. Users can manage autorunners through system configuration tools, such as the Task Manager in Windows or System Settings in macOS, to disable unnecessary programs and improve system performance.