Manage Login Items and Background Apps in macOS 13

In macOS 13 Ventura, Apple replaced the traditional System Preferences with System Settings, changing how startup programs and background processes are managed. This guide provides a direct walkthrough on locating the redesigned Login Items menu, adding or removing apps that launch at startup, and toggling background extensions to keep your Mac running efficiently.

Accessing Login Items in macOS 13

  1. Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Select System Settings.
  3. In the left sidebar, click General.
  4. On the right side, select Login Items.

Managing "Open at Login" Applications

The top section, labeled Open at Login, lists applications that launch automatically every time you start up or sign in to your Mac.

  • To prevent an app from opening at startup: Click on the app in the list to highlight it, then click the minus (–) button below the list.
  • To add an app to startup: Click the plus (+) button below the list, navigate to your Applications folder, select the desired app, and click Open.

Managing "Allow in the Background" Extensions

The lower section, labeled Allow in the Background, displays background tasks, helpers, and update services installed by third-party software. These processes run silently even when the main application is closed.

  • To disable a background process: Find the software or developer in the list and toggle the switch next to it to the Off position.
  • To re-enable a background process: Toggle the switch back to the On position.

Note: Disabling background tasks for software like cloud storage (e.g., Dropbox or OneDrive) or automated backup tools will stop them from syncing files or checking for updates until you open the applications manually.