A We couldn’t find this app entry in Windows Startup settings points to a registration whose target cannot be found. It is different from an ordinary application that you simply do not want opening at sign-in.

Open Settings, Apps, Startup and locate the entry. Record its current toggle state and any information shown. Microsoft provides an information icon beside the toggle that can reveal the file path or registry location containing the broken reference.

Work out what the missing path represents

Read the path before changing anything. Microsoft lists removable storage, network storage, a path that no longer exists and an uninstalled application as possible explanations.

If it points to your usual removable drive or authorised network location, check whether that location is available through File Explorer. Do not connect unfamiliar storage or enter credentials into an unexpected prompt just to make a startup warning disappear.

If the application was intentionally uninstalled, record that fact. If it is still needed, find its normal installed entry and check the publisher’s supported startup or repair instructions. Avoid reinstalling an unrelated program merely because its name resembles part of the old path.

Resolve the intended behaviour, not just the label

For an optional entry that should no longer run, the Startup toggle can prevent automatic launch while you arrange any necessary application cleanup. This is not the same as removing the invalid registration or uninstalling software.

If the information points to the registry, preserve the exact location for an administrator or support person. Do not delete a whole registry branch or use a broad cleaner to remove one unexplained reference.

After the appropriate application or storage correction, revisit the same entry and test the next ordinary sign-in. Confirm whether the wanted application starts and whether the missing-target label remains.

Keep the observed path and chosen action in your notes. The useful outcome is an understood startup dependency: either a supported target that is available when required, or a retired entry whose cleanup is handled deliberately.

Sources: Microsoft startup application paths.