Task Scheduler is Windows’ built-in automation tool. It can start a program, script, reminder, or maintenance action at a specific time, on a repeating schedule, when the computer starts, or when you sign in.
This guide applies to Windows 10 and Windows 11. No extra software is required.
Does This Affect You?
Use Task Scheduler for anything you would otherwise launch manually on a predictable schedule: backup scripts, cleanup commands, reminders, app launches, update checks, or maintenance tasks.
Create a Basic Scheduled Task
- Search for Task Scheduler from the taskbar and open it.
- In the right Actions pane, click Create Basic Task.
- Enter a name and optional description, then click Next.
- Choose a trigger such as Daily, Weekly, Monthly, One time, When the computer starts, or When I log on.
- Set the date, time, and repeat details if the trigger needs them.
- Choose Start a program.
- Click Browse and select the program, script, or file to run.
- Review the summary and click Finish.
Find, Test, or Edit a Task
- Open Task Scheduler and select Task Scheduler Library in the left pane.
- Select a task to view details such as its triggers and actions.
- Right-click a task and choose Run to test it immediately.
- Double-click a task, or right-click and choose Properties, to edit its Triggers, Actions, Conditions, and other settings.
Disable or Delete a Task
- Open Task Scheduler Library.
- Right-click the task you no longer need.
- Choose Disable to keep it but stop it from running, or choose Delete to remove it permanently.
- Confirm if Windows asks.
Task Scheduler Tips
Use Conditions Carefully
The Conditions tab can require AC power, idle time, or network availability before a task runs. These are useful safeguards, but they can also explain why a task did not run when expected.
Enable Task History
Task history is often off by default. Use Action > Enable All Tasks History, then check the task’s History tab to confirm when it ran and whether it succeeded.
Run While Logged Out
On the General tab, Run whether user is logged on or not is useful for overnight or locked-PC tasks. Windows may ask for your account password when saving that setting.
Use schtasks from the Terminal
Advanced users can manage scheduled tasks with schtasks. Run schtasks /? in Command Prompt to see the command-line options.
Sources
- Microsoft Learn: Task Scheduler overview
- Microsoft Support: Schedule a task in Windows
- Microsoft Learn: Task Scheduler command-line reference