Can Not Find Script File Startupcheck.Vbs
Table of Contents
What is StartupCheck.vbs?
StartupCheck.vbs is a VBScript file that Windows or third-party software creates to perform diagnostic checks during the boot process. VBScript is a scripting language that Microsoft developed years ago, and it is still used by some programs to automate tasks on Windows.
When you see the error “Can not find script file StartupCheck.vbs,” it means your computer is trying to run this script during startup, but the actual file has been deleted, moved, or was never properly installed.
What Does StartupCheck.vbs Actually Do?
- Checks if certain hardware components are functioning correctly
- Verifies that required software services are running
- Logs system information for diagnostic purposes
- Communicates with OEM support tools like Dell SupportAssist or HP Support Assistant
What Causes This Error?
| Cause | Explanation | Common On |
|---|---|---|
| Uninstalled software | Program removed but startup entry remains | Dell SupportAssist, HP Support Assistant |
| Deleted script | Script file manually deleted or cleaned | Any PC |
| Malware cleanup | Antivirus removed script but not entry | Any PC |
| Corrupted update | Software update changed file path | OEM software |
| Registry orphan | Registry points to non-existent file | Any PC |
Why Dell and HP Users See This Most Often
Dell SupportAssist and HP Support Assistant are pre-installed on most Dell and HP computers. They create StartupCheck.vbs as part of their startup routine. When these programs are uninstalled, updated, or corrupted, the script file may be deleted while the Registry entry remains.
Why You Should Care About This Error
It Slows Down Your Boot Time: Every time Windows encounters a missing script during startup, it pauses for a moment while it tries to find the file. This timeout adds between 3 and 10 seconds to every single boot. Over the course of a year, that adds up to hours of wasted time.
It Indicates Orphaned Software Entries: The error is a symptom of leftover software configuration. These orphaned entries can accumulate over time and contribute to a slower, less responsive system.
It Is Easy to Fix: The fix takes less than 2 minutes once you know where to look. You do not need any technical expertise or special software.
Windows 11 Handles Startup Scripts Differently: If you recently upgraded to Windows 11, startup errors may appear slightly differently. The fix methods in this guide work for both versions.
How to Fix It Permanently (3 Methods)
Method 1: Check the Startup Folder (Easiest)
shell:startup and press Enter. This opens your personal Startup folder..vbs files. If you find StartupCheck.vbs, right-click and select Delete.shell:common startup, and check there too.Method 2: Clean the Registry (Most Thorough)
regedit, and press Enter.HKEY_CURRENT_USER\\Software\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\RunHKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\Software\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\RunMethod 3: Check Task Scheduler (For Stubborn Errors)
Best Tools to Clean Startup Entries
| Tool | Price | Ease | Registry Entries | Task Scheduler |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autoruns | Free | Advanced | Yes | Yes |
| CCleaner | Free/Paid | Easy | Partial | No |
| Task Manager | Built-in | Easy | No | No |
| MSConfig | Built-in | Easy | No | No |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Ignoring the Error
Problem: Some users ignore the error. It adds boot time and indicates leftover software.
Solution: Fix it now — it takes 2 minutes.
Mistake 2: Deleting Wrong Registry Entries
Problem: Deleting entries without understanding them can break other programs.
Solution: Back up the Registry first. Only delete entries clearly referencing StartupCheck.vbs.
Mistake 3: Checking Only One Location
Problem: The entry might exist in Startup folder, Registry, AND Task Scheduler.
Solution: Check all three locations for complete removal.
Mistake 4: Using Untrusted Fix-It Tools
Problem: Some “fix” tools are malware or adware.
Solution: Only use trusted tools from official sources.
Expert Tips
“The StartupCheck.vbs error is one of the easiest startup errors to fix. The real problem is not the error itself. It is the orphaned software entry that causes it.”
When you uninstall Dell SupportAssist or HP Support Assistant, always check for leftover startup entries.
Microsoft Autoruns shows ALL startup entries — more thorough than checking manually.
If the error appeared suddenly, run a full scan with Windows Defender or Malwarebytes.
Periodically review startup entries and disable anything unnecessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is StartupCheck.vbs a virus?
Usually no. It is typically left behind by Dell SupportAssist or HP Support Assistant. Run a malware scan to be safe.
Will deleting the entry harm my computer?
No. The file is usually already missing. Removing the startup entry eliminates the error.
How do I prevent this error?
Check Startup folder, Registry Run keys, and Task Scheduler after uninstalling software.
Does this error slow down my computer?
Yes, slightly. It adds 3 to 10 seconds to every boot.
What if it keeps coming back?
Check for Dell or HP software reinstalling the entry. Fully uninstall OEM support tools.
Can I disable the error message?
Remove the startup entry — the error stops appearing.
Is it different on Windows 11?
The error is the same. Fix methods work for both Windows 10 and 11.
Should I be worried?
No. It is a minor annoyance, not a security threat.
Conclusion
The “Can not find script file StartupCheck.vbs” error is caused by orphaned software entries, most commonly from Dell SupportAssist or HP Support Assistant. The script file has been deleted, but the startup entry still exists.
What to do:
- Check Startup folder (
shell:startup) for .vbs files - Check Registry Run keys for StartupCheck entries
- Check Task Scheduler for related tasks
- Use Autoruns for thorough cleanup
The whole process takes less than five minutes. Once the entry is removed, the error will not come back.
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