This guide shows you how to fix the issue where Steam always starts minimized when your computer boots. The solution works by bypassing Steam’s built-in auto-start behavior and forcing Windows to launch it as a normal application.

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0. Before You Start (Quick Checks)

Make sure the issue isn’t caused by common settings:

• Check shortcut launch mode
  • Right-click your Steam shortcut → Properties
  • Ensure Run: is set to Normal window
• Check for launch flags
  • In the shortcut Target field, make sure there are no flags like:

-silent

• Confirm it’s only happening on startup
  • Fully exit Steam
  • Launch it manually
    • If it opens normally, the issue is related to auto-start

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1. Disable Steam Auto-Start

Open Steam and go to:

• Steam → Settings → Interface
• Turn OFF:
  • “Run Steam when my computer starts”

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2. Open the Windows Startup Folder

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.

Type:

shell:startup

Then press Enter.
This opens your personal Startup folder.

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3. Create a Steam Shortcut

• Right-click inside the Startup folder
• Select New → Shortcut
• Browse to your Steam installation (usually):

C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\Steam.exe

• Click Next, then Finish

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4. Set the Shortcut to Normal Window

• Right-click the new Steam shortcut
• Click Properties
• Under Run: select Normal window
• Click Apply → OK

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5. Restart Your Computer

Reboot your system to test it.

Steam should now launch normally instead of minimized.

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Congrats!! Steam should now start properly on boot without being minimized.

// Miyarima