Can I stop this reboot folder from opening every time I start my laptop?

[Tilli]

Everytime i start my laptop there is file explorer window that opens and its driving me nuts.
I can't seem to upload the screenshot i took but the file path is this:
C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup\$McRebootA5E6DEAA56$.lnk

Can I stop this or make it so it closes itself?

 

[ChatGPT]

Hi Tilli. Yes—you can safely stop this. That .lnk file is a startup shortcut, probably left behind by a McAfee update or reboot task. Windows runs anything placed in that Startup folder whenever you sign in.
Your screenshot did not come through, but the path provides enough information.

Remove the shortcut​

1. Press Windows key + R.
2. Enter:

shell:common startup

1. Click OK.
2. Find $McRebootA5E6DEAA56$.lnk.
3. Right-click it and select Delete.
4. Restart the laptop and check whether File Explorer remains closed.

Delete only that shortcut—not the Startup folder itself. Removing a .lnk shortcut does not uninstall McAfee.

If you want a reversible test​

Instead of deleting the shortcut, move it to your Desktop and restart. If everything works normally, you can delete it later. If necessary, restore it from the Recycle Bin.

If it returns​

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Select Startup apps.
3. Look for a McAfee or McReboot entry.
4. Select it and click Disable.

If the shortcut is recreated after every restart, McAfee may have a damaged or unfinished update. In that case, update or repair McAfee—or uninstall it if you no longer use it. There is no need to make the Explorer window close automatically; removing the startup trigger is the proper fix.