WinPatrol says startup program is disabled, but it is running

[geezer]

Hi - I have WP2014+ v30.1.2014.0:30.1.2014.0
listed under startup programs are two instances of Dropbox which are listed as disabled. But according to Procmon, dropbox is running. Please correct me if wrong, I thought any startup program that WP disabled, would cease to run at startup. So which one of these programs is lying to me, WP or ProcMon?

[ky331]

A program can be started from several locations... including the "Secret Startup Locations (Advanced Mode)",  through the Task Scheduler, and through Services.   And a running program can in turn call (start) another program.

For example, under WinPatrol's Startup, I have disabled both hkcmd.exe ("HotKeysCmds") and igfxpers.exe ("Persistence").   Nevertheless, both are running (as seen in Task Manager).   Why?   PROBABLY, because there's also a "Secret" startup item, igfxcui (igfxdev.dll) [type=NOTIFY] which DOES start, and it presumably then invokes the other two "disabled" processes.

So it's not a matter of "lying".   Your Dropbox IS being disabled from a "direct" startup... but the fact that it's running is an indication that something ELSE is starting up, and then calling it.

[winchester73]

Hi - I have WP2014+ v30.1.2014.0:30.1.2014.0

geezer ... unrelated to your question, but there is a newer version of WP available:  32.0.2014.5

[geezer]

@ky331 & @winchester73
Thanks for the detailed explanation - much appreciated. Now I'm even more curious. I will post back when I find from where DB is being started, unless you think no one else cares.
And I will update WP.
MTFBWY
geezer

[winchester73]

If memory serves, Dropbox rewrites its autostart config file at every start-up.

What does the Windows task manager report (Ctrl+Shift+Esc)?  Running or not?

Start Dropbox manually.  Is the "Start Dropbox on system startup" box checked when you right click on the system tray icon? 

[geezer]

Thanks winchester73
I had the program set to start with Windows. I realize now, that WP needs just a little common sense help, to accomplish what the user desires.
WP is a great utility, been using it for years. Was a little worried when Bill retired, but so far, seems like the new fellow is doing a good job.
Also want to say that I like your site - think I'll stick around.
MTFBWY
geezer

[winchester73]

Also want to say that I like your site - think I'll stick around.
MTFBWY
geezer

The Force is strong with this one  :D

There's a lot of friendly folks here, from around the world.

Stop by any time, relax in the Lounge, play a game or two, or share a joke in the Jokes forum. 

[Corrine]

Was a little worried when Bill retired, but so far, seems like the new fellow is doing a good job.

Bill hasn't abandoned WinPatrol completely yet.  He agreed to work with Bret for a few months to help with the transition.  Even when that time is up, I have the strong feeling that if for some reason Bret needs help, Bill will be available.  That said, with Bret's history as a software developer, I think Bill picked the right person for Scotty's new keeper.