Is there a utility to monitor changes in Windows startup?

Question

The first thing most malware does is adding itself to Windows startup, so it would be useful to be notified instantly when something adds itself to the list of startup programs.

Do you know such a tool?

Answer 1

Startup Monitor is that kind of tool ...

StartupMonitor is a small utility that runs transparently (it doesn't even use a tray icon) and notifies you when any program registers itself to run at system startup. It prevents annoying programs from registering themselves behind your back.

StartupMonitor does not require Startup Control Panel, but it complements it nicely. When you choose not to allow a program to register itself, the program's entry becomes disabled in Startup Control Panel, so you can go back and enable it later if necessary. StartupMonitor watches the Start Menu's Startup folders and the Run entries in the registry.

StartupMonitor works on all modern versions of Windows through XP. I haven't tried it on Windows Vista yet.

Answer 2

I've used WinPatrol for years. It monitors changes to things like your Startup folder, the Registry's "CurrentVersion/Run" entries, additions to registered Windows Services, etc.

I think I'll also take a look at @NT's suggestion, Startup Monitor. It's always good to look at alternatives. :)

Answer 3

Anvir Taskmanager Free alerts on new startups, block undesired startup programs (to name but one of many features).

Free and Portable editions are available from the download section.