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Sometimes. Windows 11 can reopen supported restartable apps after you sign in, if the restartable-app option is on. It does not promise to restore every app, window, document, or complete work session. To change the behavior, go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and switch “Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign in” on or off.

What happens when Windows 11 restarts?

Windows 11 may save and reopen apps it supports as restartable apps when you sign in after a restart. Microsoft describes this as a feature for restartable apps; it is not a guarantee that every installed app will return or that documents and unsaved work will be restored. App behavior can vary.

To control this feature, open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, then change “Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign in.” Microsoft also recommends turning this option off if you do not want Microsoft Edge to start when you sign in. Microsoft Support: Stop Microsoft Edge from starting automatically.

Why might an app still open after you turn that option off?

Windows has a separate startup-app setting. Apps enabled there are configured to launch when you sign in, independently of the restartable-app behavior.

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  1. Open Settings > Apps > Startup and switch off the app you do not want to launch at sign-in.
  2. Alternatively, open Task Manager > Startup apps and disable the app there if it is listed.
  3. If the app is not listed in either place, Microsoft says it may need to be configured through the Startup folder in File Explorer.

See Microsoft Support: Configure Startup applications in Windows for the startup controls.

Is an update restart causing the apps to reopen?

Windows Update controls when a restart happens; it does not determine which apps reopen afterward. If an update is restarting your PC at an inconvenient time, check Settings > Windows Update for restart scheduling. You can also review Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Active hours to set when Windows should avoid restarting while you normally use the PC. Microsoft explains these options in its Windows Update FAQ and active hours guidance.

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Which setting should you change?

What you want to control Where to change it
Supported apps reopened after you sign in following a restart Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options
Apps configured to launch whenever you sign in Settings > Apps > Startup, or Task Manager > Startup apps
When Windows Update restarts the PC Settings > Windows Update; review restart scheduling and Advanced options > Active hours

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