To reopen OBS after a Windows restart, put an OBS shortcut in your user Startup folder or create a Task Scheduler task. To have OBS start streaming when it opens, add --startstreaming to its launch command. YouTube’s broadcast auto-start setting is separate, so test the full sequence with the intended broadcast before relying on it unattended.
Choose how OBS should start
| Method | Best for | Key point | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Startup folder shortcut | Opening OBS when you sign in to Windows | Place an OBS shortcut in the Startup folder. | Offers little control over delay or network readiness; the route described here comes from community guidance. |
| Task Scheduler | More control over launch timing or conditions | Run OBS as a task and set its Start in… directory to the folder containing obs64.exe. |
Requires configuration and testing. OBS documents the working-directory requirement, but detailed Windows task settings are not established here. |
These options launch OBS; they do not necessarily start a YouTube broadcast. Add the launch parameter only if you want OBS to initiate streaming automatically.
Set up OBS to open at sign-in
The Startup folder method is the simplest choice when starting OBS after a user signs in is sufficient. Windows-specific steps below are community-described rather than verified against current Microsoft documentation.
- Find your OBS Studio shortcut. If needed, create a shortcut that points to
obs64.exe. - Press
Win + R, entershell:startup, and press Enter to open the current user’s Startup folder. - Copy or move the OBS shortcut into that folder.
- Restart Windows and sign in. Check that OBS opens. If you want OBS to start streaming as well, follow the next section before testing.
This starts OBS at user sign-in, not necessarily at the instant the computer powers on. A Task Scheduler task is the alternative when you need more control over launch conditions or delay.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Have OBS start streaming when it opens
OBS documents the --startstreaming launch parameter to automatically start streaming. Add it to the shortcut’s Target field or the command used by your scheduled task.
- Right-click the OBS shortcut and open Properties.
- In Target, add a space after the closing quotation mark and append
--startstreaming. For example, if the target ends withobs64.exe", it should end withobs64.exe" --startstreaming. - If using Task Scheduler, set Start in… to the folder containing
obs64.exe, as OBS’s launch-parameter documentation instructs for scheduled or automated launching. - Apply the change and verify the shortcut or task opens the expected OBS installation and profile.
Use this only if you intend to transmit immediately on launch. Before enabling it, confirm that OBS has the correct scene, audio and video sources, and that the intended YouTube broadcast and audience settings are ready.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Check YouTube’s broadcast auto-start setting
OBS’s parameter tells OBS to start its configured stream; it does not guarantee that every YouTube broadcast will transition to live. Check the auto-start setting on the intended broadcast in YouTube Studio as well. YouTube Help says that reusing a stream’s settings copies its auto-start and auto-stop selections, so verify those settings when reusing a stream.
The available YouTube guidance does not establish a universal recovery outcome for every scheduled broadcast, account setup, or OBS version. Treat the OBS launch and YouTube broadcast transition as separate parts of the workflow.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Test the complete restart sequence
- Choose a private or test broadcast appropriate to your channel and confirm you have selected the correct event.
- Restart Windows and sign in, or run the scheduled task if that is your chosen method.
- Confirm OBS opens with the expected profile, scene, and sources.
- If
--startstreamingis enabled, confirm OBS starts sending the stream. - Check YouTube Studio and the viewing page to confirm the intended broadcast actually becomes live.
- Repeat under the conditions you expect to use, including a restart after an update or power interruption if relevant.
Do not depend on unattended operation until both OBS startup and the YouTube live transition have worked in your own setup.
Troubleshoot common startup failures
OBS opens, but the YouTube broadcast stays offline
OBS may be streaming without YouTube automatically transitioning the intended broadcast to live. Check the YouTube auto-start setting for that broadcast and confirm OBS is sending to the expected stream. Test the exact event workflow; universal post-restart behavior is not established for every configuration.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
OBS does not open after restart
For the Startup folder method, confirm the shortcut is in the user’s Startup folder and that you signed in to the same Windows account. For Task Scheduler, check that the task points to the intended OBS executable and has the correct Start in… directory.
The stream does not connect after a power interruption
An OBS forum participant reported that a computer and OBS can start before network equipment after an outage, and that an initial connection failure may interfere with reconnecting. This is a community-reported possibility, not a guaranteed behavior. Consider a delayed or retrying launch only after validating it with your equipment and test broadcast.
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
OBS starts streaming the wrong content or at the wrong time
Disable automatic streaming until you have checked the active OBS profile, scene, sources, stream destination, YouTube broadcast, and audience setting. A launch parameter can begin transmitting as soon as the configured stream is ready.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep uploaded video playing as a 24/7 YouTube stream, StreamNeo avoids relying on a Windows PC to restart: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams uploaded video at the quality you provide, up to 4K 60fps, for one flat price per slot, and can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for YouTube and uploaded videos, not live camera input. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your free day.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
