SterJo Startup Patrol 1.6

Overview

SterJo Startup Patrol is a startup manager that not only can show the user what apps are set to start the next time Windows is booted up or restarted, but will also alert the user when an application attempts to add itself to the startup routine.

The software can scan the Windows registry to see what programs are sitting in the Run, RunEx and RunOnce registry entries and list those programs that are schedule to start next time.

The program can also alert the user when it discovers a new startup items being added to the Windows registry.

The user can choose to allow, disallow or remove items in the startup list.

The software basically simple enough, but lacks any panache. With the multitude of startup managers on the market, it really needs something to help it start out from the crowd.

Installation

The installation completed without any issues.

SterJo Startup Patrol requires Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 or Windows 8.

Interface

The interface has a basic menu system with not too many menu options available.

There is also a small toolbar with tiny buttons that are a little difficult to make out.

The program lists the scanned startup programs in the main pane. These use columns for Name, Value, Section, Status, Product Name, and Product.

Individual start up items can be selected and activated. It is then possible to go through the dialog window for that startup item and decide whether to Allow, Disable or Delete it. Information about the startup item will be presented, including its Windows registry section, program name, value (including any special parameters when loading the file), a link to further file details, and a confirmation whether the file comes with a signed digital signature.

Pros

• See all start up programs that are set to load when Windows does
• Be alerted when new startup items are added to the Run, RunEx or RunOnce Windows registry sections
• View information about each startup item
• Allow, Disallow or Delete a registry startup item

Cons

• Many startup managers available often with a better interface.

Alternatives

CCleaner is a good cleaner that also has a Startup manager just as one of its several modules within the application. This is updated regularly and does a good job of managing startup items.

Conclusion

SterJo Startup Patrol is a reasonable startup manager, but lacks any special features beyond what other apps already offer.