How to Remove AcroTray from Startup in Windows 10 and 11

AcroTray is part of Adobe Acrobat. It runs in the background when you start your computer. Some users do not need it to run all the time. It may slow down your computer’s startup. In this article, you will learn how to remove AcroTray from startup in Windows 10 and 11. We will use easy steps. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow them.

What Is AcroTray?

AcroTray is short for Adobe Acrobat Tray. It helps convert files into PDF format. It also helps with Adobe-related features. But it runs every time your system starts. That uses memory and slows things down. If you don’t use Adobe PDF tools daily, you don’t need it to run at startup.

Why Remove AcroTray from Startup?

Here are a few reasons to disable it:

• Faster boot time
• Less background activity
• More available system memory
• Cleaner taskbar and system tray

Removing it does not delete the program. You can still use Adobe tools when needed.

Method 1: Disable AcroTray Using Task Manager

This is the easiest method.

Steps:

1. Right-click on the Taskbar.
2. Click Task Manager from the menu.
3. Go to the Startup tab.
4. Find AcroTray on the list.
5. Right-click on AcroTray.
6. Click Disable.

That’s it. It won’t start automatically from now on.

Method 2: Use System Configuration (msconfig)

Another way is through System Configuration.

Steps:

1. Press the Windows + R keys together.
2. Type msconfig and hit Enter.
3. Click on the Startup tab.
4. If you’re on Windows 10/11, it may redirect to Task Manager.
5. Follow the same Task Manager steps to disable AcroTray.

This method also keeps it off during startup.

Method 3: Disable AcroTray from Services

Sometimes AcroTray depends on Adobe services. You can disable those too.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R to open Run.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. Scroll down and find Adobe Acrobat Update Service.
4. Right-click on it and choose Properties.
5. Set the Startup type to Manual or Disabled.
6. Click Apply, then OK.
7. Do the same for Adobe Genuine Software Integrity Service (if available).

This may stop AcroTray from running indirectly.

Method 4: Use Autoruns (Advanced Users)

This tool shows all startup items. It gives more control than Task Manager.

Steps:

1. Download Autoruns for Windows from Microsoft’s official site.
2. Open the program as an administrator.
3. Go to the Logon tab.
4. Find AcroTray.exe.
5. Uncheck the box next to it.

Be careful with this method. Do not disable unknown system files.

What Happens After You Disable AcroTray?

After disabling AcroTray, your PC will boot faster. Adobe Acrobat may take a bit longer to start. But you can still use it normally. You can re-enable it anytime using the same methods.

Is It Safe to Remove AcroTray from Startup?

Yes, it is safe. You are not uninstalling Adobe software. You are just stopping it from auto-launching. Many users do this to boost performance.

Can You Uninstall AcroTray Completely?

Yes, but it removes part of Adobe Acrobat. You must uninstall the full Adobe suite. This is not recommended unless you don’t use Adobe products.

Tips to Keep Your PC Fast

• Remove unused startup programs.
• Keep your software updated.
• Use antivirus and run regular scans.
• Clean junk files using tools like Disk Cleanup.

Keeping AcroTray off at startup is just one helpful step.

Conclusion

AcroTray is useful for Adobe users. But most people do not need it running at startup. You can disable it using Task Manager, System Configuration, or other tools. This helps speed up your computer and reduce background load. If needed, you can always turn it back on. Now you know how to manage AcroTray in Windows 10 and 11 easily.