Side by side
Autoruns vs CodeWinOptimizer
Both stand on pc optimization software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Windows
Choose Autoruns if you need a free Windows tool to inspect startup items across many system locations and manage their configurations. Its Autorunsc companion adds command-line output and offline scanning. Look elsewhere if you need a non-Windows platform or official Microsoft support.
Visit Autoruns Free plan Windows
CodeWinOptimizer brings cleanup, software management, system controls, and safeguards together in a free Windows utility. Its administrator requirement and Windows-only compatibility are important fit considerations.
Visit CodeWinOptimizerThe facts
| Autoruns | CodeWinOptimizer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | learn.microsoft.com | codewinoptimizer.com |
| On pc optimization software | #28 of 103 | #32 of 103 |
Autoruns: what it does well
- Reports startup entries across folders, Registry keys, services, tasks, and more.
- Can hide signed Microsoft entries to focus on third-party items.
- Supports disabling or deleting startup configuration entries.
- Autorunsc can export CSV or tab-delimited data and scan offline systems.
- Free to use on devices owned or supported, with no use limit.
What to know first
- Runs on Windows only.
- VirusTotal features require accepting VirusTotal's terms.
- Microsoft provides no official support for Sysinternals tools.
- Redistribution requires a license.
CodeWinOptimizer: what it does well
- Free plan has no accounts or paid features
- Manages 181 apps through WinGet or Chocolatey
- Creates restore points and backs up registry and drivers
- Portable executable can run from a USB drive
- Tweak documentation includes commands and warnings
What to know first
- Requires administrator privileges
- Requires WebView2 runtime
- Supports only 64-bit Windows 10 and 11
Alternatives to Autoruns Alternatives to CodeWinOptimizer The whole list

