Startup Guard

Startup Guard is a lean system utility designed to efficiently monitor your system's auto-startup programs. The latest version of this software, 3.51, offers real-time notifications whenever new programs are added to the startup list, providing flexibility to approve or disapprove these entries. This feature is instrumental in blocking malicious programs like worms, spyware, adware, trojans, and other types of malware that may compromise your system by embedding themselves in the Windows startup process.

Developed by Acelogix, this automation tool is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11. The software's installation files come under various names, such as StartupGuard.exe, Services.exe, SG.EXE, Startup Guard 3.exe, and STARTU1.exe. Users can also explore older iterations of the program, such as versions 3.5, 3.0, and 1.2, though version 3.51 is recommended for its latest updates and improvements.

Users can use Startup Guard not just to thwart malware but also to prevent modifications to their browser homepages and search pages, thus safeguarding their browsing experience from unwanted changes. Categorized under System Utilities with a subcategory of Automation, this program ensures that your system remains free from unnecessary or harmful startup programs.

For those looking to get their hands on Startup Guard easily, it is available for download. While the primary option is to get the software for free, this might come with limited features, prompting some users to consider premium options.

Pros:

• Real-time monitoring of startup programs.
• Effective in blocking malicious software like viruses, spyware, and trojans.
• Prevents browser homepage and search page hijacks.
• Compatible with a wide range of Windows OS versions.

Cons:

• The free version may have limited features compared to the premium one.
• Some users might find the interface less intuitive compared to other system utilities.

Startup Guard, with its robust security features and broad OS support, serves as an excellent tool for anyone looking to maintain a clean and efficient startup process on their Windows-powered devices.

It is not possible to confirm if there is a free download for this software available on the developer's website. According to the results of the Google Safe Browsing check, the developer's site is safe. Despite this, we recommend checking the downloaded files with any free antivirus software.

You may want to check out more software, such as PC Startup Master, Startup Master or System Security Guard, which might be related to Startup Guard.