If you are experiencing an issue where a folder containing HTML files is automatically opened via the default browser every time you boot your Windows system, it could potentially be caused by several factors. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and resolve the issue:
1. Check Startup Programs: Press the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys to open the Task Manager. Navigate to the "Startup" tab and look for any suspicious entries related to the folder or browser. If you find any, right-click on the entry and select "Disable."
2. Disable Unwanted Browser Extensions: Open your default browser and disable any extensions that you do not recognize or suspect may be causing the issue. To do this, go to the browser's settings or preferences and look for an "Extensions" or "Add-ons" section.
3. Malware Scan: Run a thorough scan using your preferred antivirus software to detect and remove any potential malware or unwanted programs that may be causing the issue. Make sure to keep your antivirus software up to date for effective protection.
4. Check Task Scheduler: Launch the Task Scheduler by searching for it in the Start menu. Expand the "Task Scheduler Library" and look for any tasks related to opening the folder or browser. If you find any, right-click on the task and select "Disable" or "Delete."
5. Check Startup Folder: Open File Explorer and navigate to the following location: `%appdata%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup`. Check if there are any shortcuts or files related to the folder or browser. If you find any, delete them.
6. Clear Default Browser Settings: If none of the above steps worked, you can try resetting your default browser to its default settings. Open the browser's settings or preferences and look for an option to "Reset" or "Restore" default settings. Note that this will remove any personalized settings or preferences you have.
If the issue still persists after trying these steps, it might be helpful to provide more specific information, such as the name or location of the folder that opens, the default browser you are using, and any recent changes or installations that might be related to the issue. This information can further assist in troubleshooting the problem.