Login items are apps that open when you log in to your Mac. You can turn them off in System Settings. Do this after you remove an app, so it does not keep starting in the background. Turning off a login item does not remove the app.
Quick steps
- Open System Settings.
- Click General.
- Click Login Items & Extensions.
- Turn off the entries for apps you no longer want to open at login.
Step 1: Open Login Items
- Click the Apple menu in the top left corner of the screen.
- Click System Settings.
- Click General, then Login Items & Extensions.
One-time purchase. Works on macOS 15 or later, on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.
Step 2: Turn off the app
Look for the app’s name in the list of apps that open at login. Click the switch next to it to turn it off. Do this for each app you no longer use.
Step 3: Check the other lists
The same page can also list background items, such as helper tools. Turn off only the ones that belong to apps you have removed.
Warning: Only turn off items you recognize. Some items keep important tools running, such as security or backup software.
Why this matters
An app that opens at login uses memory and may slow your Mac when you start it. Turning off login items often makes startup quicker, and it stops removed apps from running.
Frequently asked questions
Does turning off a login item remove the app?
No. It only stops the app from opening at login. Move the app to the Trash to remove it.
Where are login items on older macOS versions?
On older versions, look in System Settings or System Preferences under Users & Groups, then Login Items.
Can I turn a login item back on?
Yes. Open the same page and turn the switch back on.
Want one simple step instead?
Uninstallzy shows every app with its size. Pick the app, confirm once, and it goes to the Trash.
One-time purchase. Works on macOS 15 or later, on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.