How to Enable or Disable AutoPlay in Windows 11

AutoPlay is a helpful Windows feature that automatically takes action when external media or devices—such as USB drives, memory cards, or DVDs—are inserted. Depending on the type of content detected, AutoPlay might open File Explorer, launch a media player, or prompt an import dialog.

While it’s designed for convenience, AutoPlay isn’t for everyone. Some prefer manual control, while others disable it for better security. In this guide, we’ll explore how to control it through Settings, Control Panel, and Group Policy.

Method 1: Enable or Disable AutoPlay via Settings

Ideal for everyday users, it allows toggling AutoPlay on or off and customizing device actions without needing administrative access.

Step 1. Open Windows Settings

Press Win + I to open the Settings app.

Step 2. Navigate to Bluetooth & Devices

Select Bluetooth & devices from the left-hand menu, then click AutoPlay.

Step 3. Configure AutoPlay

Toggle Use AutoPlay for all media and devices to On or Off depending on your preference. Under Choose AutoPlay defaults, configure actions for Removable drive and Memory card.

Method 2: Enable or Disable AutoPlay via Control Panel

For those familiar with previous versions of Windows, the classic Control Panel remains a reliable method to manage AutoPlay. 

Step 1. Open Control Panel

Type Control Panel into the Start menu and open it.

Step 2. Access AutoPlay Settings

View by Small icons or Large icons. Then click on AutoPlay.

Step 3. Configure AutoPlay

Check or uncheck Use AutoPlay for all media and devices. Choose default actions for each type of media (e.g., pictures, videos, Music).

Method 3: Disable AutoPlay via Group Policy

For system administrators or users running Windows 11 Pro, the Group Policy Editor provides a powerful way to disable AutoPlay permanently across all drives.

Step 1. Open Local Group Policy Editor

Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

Step 2. Navigate to AutoPlay Settings

Go to:

Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > AutoPlay Policies

Step 3. Turn Off AutoPlay

Double-click Turn off AutoPlay. Select Enabled, and then choose All drives from Turn off AutoPlay box to disable AutoPlay on all drives, or choose CD-ROM and removable media drives to disable AutoPlay on these media.

Conclusion

AutoPlay can enhance convenience by reducing clicks and launching preferred apps automatically. However, not everyone wants this feature enabled—especially when using shared, public, or unfamiliar USB drives. Whether it’s to prevent distractions or improve security, Windows 11 offers multiple ways to enable or disable this feature based on user preference. Use the method that best suits your comfort level and needs.