How to Write a Startup Script

By Alex Ramirez

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Startup scripts can be helpful time-saving devices for those familiar with Visual Basic, the programming language of startup scripts, that can perform multiple tasks automatically, such as opening programs. Startup scripts are typically run directly after the computer has finished the booting-up process, and can save the user from having to click on multiple icons to open several programs. Even if you're not familiar with the Visual Basic language, you can perform a few functions that can make your computer life a bit easier and convenient.

Open a word processing program to write the startup script in. Notepad is a recommended program, because its saved files never contain any extra code that could interfere with the startup reading process.

Type the command that you wish to occur first. To open a file or program at startup, simply type in the path that the file is located to boot the .exe. For example, the command line "C:\Program Files\iTunes\iTunes.exe" will start the program iTunes.

Save the completed startup script in a place where you can find it.

Start the program "Run" from the "Start" menu.

Type "mmc" and click "OK" to open the Microsoft Management Console.

Click "Add/Remove Snap-in" from the "File" menu. A new window will appear.

Add "Group Policy Object" from the left panel. If a window appears asking about the properties of the object, click "Local computer" and press "OK."

Follow this path to locate the "Scripts (Startup/Shutdown)" menu: "Console Root\Local Computer Policy\Computer Configuration\Windows Settings\Scripts (Startup/Shutdown)".

Select "Startup" and click "Properties" scripts from the larger pane on the right.

Click "Add..." to bring up a new menu where you can search and select your startup script.

Press "OK" until you are back at the desktop. You will need to restart your computer for the startup script to take effect.

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