Run a Python program at start-up on Windows

Question

I am developing a key-logger on Python (only for curiosity sake). And the script will be an executable. Without access to the computer so the process should not need a UI or user interaction.

Is there any way, even in another executable to make the key-logger start at start-up ?

Solution 1

I don't use Windows, but you can try making a batch script that runs your python file and make that script Run a program automatically when Windows starts:

1. Click the Start button Picture of the Start button , click All Programs, right-click the Startup folder, and then click Open.

2. Open the location that contains the item you want to create a shortcut to.

3. Right-click the item, and then click Create Shortcut. The new shortcut appears in the same location as the original item.

4. Drag the shortcut into the Startup folder.

As I said, I don't use Windows, so it might be totally wrong.

You can refer here for making the BAT file, which basically says:

@echo off
python c:\somescript.py %*
pause

Solution 2

Use VBScript:

1-> create anyname.vbs with this data:

Set wvbs=CreateObject("Wscript.Shell") wvbs.run "full location of your File",0

2-> copy anyname.vbs file in C:\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup this folder

Now when windows start it will run your file in hidden mode

Solution 3

I think that the above answers are too complex. What I did was just drag and drop or copy and paste my file in the startup folder by clicking the quick access toolbar, typing "startup", and the job is done.

I am using Windows 10 operating system, so it might be different in your case.

I hope this is useful.

Edit: The key to this solution is to have the .py extension files open by default by the python console (not a text editor), otherwise it will just open the file instead of executing it. In order to select the default program a type of file is opened with, right click on the .py file -> Open with -> Choose default program. See this example: