AutoRun Manager vs SterJo Startup Patrol

AutoRun Manager is a free Windows command-line utility for viewing and changing programs configured to run at startup. It can list startup entries, add a program, and remove one. It can also save and restore the startup configuration, though that backup does not include the programs themselves. A separate command clears all programs from the startup list. The utility manages entries through the Windows Registry and records actions and errors in timestamped text files in My Documents\AutoRunManager. The instructions say to open Command Prompt as an administrator and run AutoRunManager.exe; the command-line interface displays its available commands when started. The project uses the MIT License, which permits free use and distribution and provides the software without warranty. The README invites community contributions through pull requests. The listed plan is free.

SterJo Startup Patrol is a free Windows utility that monitors startup registry locations and startup folders in real time. It alerts when a program attempts to add a startup entry, showing the program name, full path, and modified location. You can allow, disable, or delete the change from the alert. Its main window lists active entries for manual disabling, and previous decisions or permissions can be adjusted later. Additional tools include digital-signature checks, a right-click Google search for unknown entries, and a portable edition for USB use. The portable version runs without installation and is described as not modifying system files. Version 1.6 is listed at 2.2 MB and adds an alert sound for new entries. Supported Windows versions are 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP in 32- and 64-bit editions. Scheduled Tasks are outside its core monitoring. The maker says Startup Patrol is not an antivirus, though it can flag potentially suspicious startup changes.