Startup apps and background processes can slow down macOS 26 boot times, leaving users waiting longer before their system is ready for work. By identifying and managing these automatic launch items, you can optimize your Mac to start faster and run more smoothly. This guide explains the most effective methods for controlling startup apps and processes in macOS 26, along with troubleshooting tips for persistent or hidden items.

Manage Login Items via System Settings

Step 1: Open System Settings from the Apple menu. Select General in the sidebar, then choose Login Items and Extensions on the right. This panel lists applications and background processes that are set to run automatically when you log in.

Step 2: Review the list under Open at Login. Select any app you do not want to start automatically and click the minus (-) button to remove it. For background items, toggle off any process listed under Allow in the Background if you do not need it running at startup.

Step 3: Restart your Mac to confirm that unwanted apps no longer launch automatically. This step provides immediate feedback on whether changes have taken effect.

Disable Auto-Start from App Preferences and Dock

Some applications, like Dropbox or Spotify, manage their own auto-launch settings outside macOS System Settings. These apps may override system preferences unless you change their internal settings.

Step 1: Open the app you want to stop from launching at startup. Navigate to its preferences or settings menu. Look for an option such as Launch at login or Start on system startup and uncheck it. This prevents the app from adding itself back to login items.

Step 2: Alternatively, locate the app icon in the Dock. Right-click (or Control-click) the icon, hover over Options, and uncheck Open at Login. This method is quick for apps that appear in your Dock after use.

Check LaunchAgents and LaunchDaemons for Persistent Startup Processes

Some apps and system services use LaunchAgents or LaunchDaemons to run background processes at startup. These items may not appear in System Settings but can still affect boot time and system performance.

Step 1: In Finder, open the Go menu, then hold the Option key to reveal the hidden Library folder. Select it to access user-level system files.

Step 2: Navigate to the following folders and review their contents:

  • ~/Library/LaunchAgents (current user only)
  • /Library/LaunchAgents (all users)
  • /Library/LaunchDaemons (system-wide)

These folders contain .plist files that tell macOS to launch certain apps or services at boot or login.

Step 3: If you find .plist files for apps you no longer use or recognize, move them to a backup folder or the Trash. Only remove items you are certain about, as deleting critical system files can cause issues. For safety, back up these folders before making changes.

Prevent Reopening Windows and Apps at Startup

macOS can reopen windows and apps that were open before shutdown or restart, which may make it appear as if certain apps are set to auto-launch. Disabling this feature can result in a cleaner, faster startup.

Step 1: When shutting down or restarting, watch for the checkbox labeled Reopen windows when logging back in in the shutdown dialog. Uncheck this box before confirming shutdown or restart. This stops macOS from restoring previously open applications and windows during the next boot.

Temporarily Disable Startup Apps Using Shift Key

To troubleshoot or speed up a single login session, you can temporarily skip all login items without removing them.

Step 1: At the login window, press and hold the Shift key while clicking Log In. Hold the key until the desktop appears. If you do not see a login window, restart your Mac and hold Shift during the progress bar, then release after the desktop loads. This skips all login items for that session only.

Use Third-Party Tools for Advanced Startup Management

For deeper control or if you suspect hidden or malicious startup items, third-party utilities can help you audit and manage all auto-launch processes.

Tools like CleanMyMac, Sensei, or EtreCheck Pro provide visual interfaces to list, disable, or remove login items, LaunchAgents, and LaunchDaemons. These apps can also help identify suspicious or unnecessary processes that may not be visible in System Settings. Always download such tools from reputable sources and review their permissions before use.

Optimize Boot Time with Additional Tips

Beyond managing startup apps, you can further reduce boot delays by following these steps:

  • Keep your macOS updated for the latest performance improvements and bug fixes.
  • Clear system caches periodically by visiting ~/Library/Caches and deleting contents inside folders (not the folders themselves).
  • Disconnect unnecessary external devices before booting, as peripherals can delay startup.
  • Consider using Sleep mode instead of shutting down, as resuming from Sleep is typically much faster.
  • If you use an older Mac with a hard disk drive, upgrading to an SSD or adding more RAM can significantly accelerate boot times and general performance.

Regularly reviewing startup items and background processes keeps macOS 26 running quickly and reduces wait times at boot. If you notice persistent slowdowns, revisit these steps or consider a hardware upgrade for even greater speed.