This article explains how to prevent Skype from starting automatically in Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8. The steps differ slightly depending on how you installed the program: through the Microsoft Store or through Skype.com.

By default, Skype opens automatically every time your computer starts and you log in to your user account. If you disable Skype from starting up, you will need to open it manually the first time you want to use it after you start your computer. Once it is open, it will remain open as normal – and allow messages and calls to come in – until you log out or close it.

Select the three dots menu (it is located next to your name on the main page).

For the default program, disable the Autostart Skype option (the button will turn gray).