Windows 10 - launch and position applications upon startup

Question

In windows 10, every time, I startup the computer. I launch 3 applications (2 chrome browsers and 1 visual studio) and position them in a certain place on my monitor. Instead of doing it manually every single time, how do I automate it so I could launch them upon startup from cold boot or reboot. Thanks

Solution 1

You may use a AutoHotkey script.

The script is stored in a .ahk file and it will look like this:

SetTitleMatchMode, 2

Run "C:\Program Files (x86)\Notepad++\notepad++.exe" "myfile.txt"
WinWait, "myfile.txt"
WinMove, 100, 200, 300, 400

Repeat the last three lines with modifications as required.

References :

• AutoHotkey documentation
• The Run command
• The WinWait command
• The WinMove command

Solution 2

Well, you can place shortcuts in the same "Startup" folder as previous versions:

C:\Users\UserName\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\

It is not shown in the Start Menu itself, but in the Startup tab of Task Manager.

That will start the applications. Most applications restore their window positions on startup, assuming the virtual display size is the same. If not... you'll need a 3rd party solution. Something that resizes windows based on title, or something like that.

Comments

[dotnet-practitioner]

I have googled for 3rd party solution but can not find one. thanks

[Nick]

@dotnet-practitioner I ran into this window layout manager while writing my own (shameless plug). It may be useful to you.