SterJo Startup Patrol – Monitor and Control Windows Startup Programs in Real Time

SterJo Startup Patrol is a lightweight and completely free Windows utility that monitors your startup programs in real time. It immediately alerts you when software tries to add itself to your startup list—helping you block unwanted applications, improve performance, and keep your system clean and secure.

Main Features

• Real-time monitoring of startup entries
• Instant alerts when programs attempt unauthorized startup changes
• Simple allow/deny controls for each modification
• View, manage, and disable existing startup programs
• Lightweight, fast, and 100% free

Why is my computer slow?

Your computer may be slow due to software you’ve installed or registry errors. Applications set to launch automatically at startup can increase boot time and slow down performance. SterJo Startup Patrol helps you monitor, control, and disable unnecessary startup programs, making your PC faster and more responsive

How Does SterJo Startup Patrol Work?

SterJo Startup Patrol detects programs that try to add themselves to Windows startup and immediately notifies you. You gain full control to allow, block, or disable software, ensuring your PC boots faster and only runs essential programs.

The tool monitors all important startup locations, including the registry and system folders, ensuring that unwanted or suspicious applications cannot add themselves without your approval. With a single click you can choose to allow the change, block it, or permanently disable future attempts.

Besides real-time protection, the application lets you review your existing startup entries so you can disable unnecessary programs and improve your PC’s performance. This makes it an essential tool for users who want to optimize speed, boost system security, and prevent unwanted background software.

Download & install

Installing is simple: download the installer or portable ZIP, extract (if applicable) and run StartupPatrol.exe. The portable version runs without modifying system files. If you want to monitor network activity as well, try SterJo NetStalker.

Current Version: 1.6

Download Portable Version

System Requirements

SterJo Startup Patrol works on Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 and Windows 11 (both 32-bit and 64-bit versions).

Version History

Version 1.6: Minor changes and now playing alert sound for new entries.

Version 1.5: Small bug fixed.

Version 1.4: Perform a Google Search on suspicious files with right mouse click.

Version 1.3: Checks if new entry file is digitally signed.

Version 1.2: Minor UI changes.

Version 1.1: Bug fixes.

Version 1.0: First public release.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does SterJo Startup Patrol do?

— It monitors your Windows startup locations in real time and alerts you whenever a program tries to add itself automatically.

How does SterJo Startup Patrol protect my startup configuration?

— The software monitors startup locations in real time and notifies you whenever an application attempts to add itself to Windows startup without your permission.

Can SterJo Startup Patrol prevent unwanted startup programs?

— Yes. SterJo Startup Patrol allows you to block or remove unwanted startup entries, helping prevent unnecessary or suspicious programs from slowing down your system.

Is SterJo Startup Patrol better than MSConfig or Task Manager?

— Unlike MSConfig or Windows Task Manager, SterJo Startup Patrol offers continuous startup monitoring and alerts, not just manual startup management.

Can I disable startup programs in Windows using SterJo Startup Patrol?

— Yes. You can easily enable, disable, or remove startup programs, giving you full control over what runs when Windows starts.

Does SterJo Startup Patrol improve boot time?

— Yes. By reducing unnecessary startup programs, SterJo Startup Patrol can significantly improve Windows boot speed and overall performance.

Which startup locations does SterJo Startup Patrol monitor?

— The tool monitors registry startup keys, startup folders, and common Windows startup locations used by applications to launch automatically.

Can this tool help detect malware or unwanted software?

— Yes. Many malware and potentially unwanted programs add themselves to startup. SterJo Startup Patrol helps detect suspicious startup changes early, allowing quick action.

Does it block malware?

— While it is not an antivirus, it helps prevent suspicious software from launching automatically, offering an extra layer of protection.

Is SterJo Startup Patrol free?

— Yes. The software is 100% free with no hidden charges.

Is SterJo Startup Patrol safe to use?

— Yes. The software is designed to monitor and manage startup entries safely and does not make changes unless you approve them.

Does it work on Windows 10 and 11?

— Yes. SterJo Startup Patrol supports Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, and 11.

Is SterJo Startup Patrol portable?

— Yes. Startup Patrol is fully portable and does not require installation. You can run it directly from a USB drive.

Can I restore blocked startup changes?

— Yes. You can reverse decisions or adjust permissions from the program interface anytime.

Who should use SterJo Startup Patrol?

SterJo Startup Patrol is ideal for home users, IT technicians, and advanced users who want better control over Windows startup behavior and system performance.