How do I configure the PIA Application to auto-start for non-administrative user accounts in Windows?

When the Launch on System Startup option is selected in an administrative account, the application starts automatically upon login. To invoke this behavior on a standard (non-administrative) user account, follow the steps detailed below.

Prerequisites

  1. Install the application: Ensure the Private Internet Access (PIA) application is installed. You can find the latest version on the PIA Download page.

  2. User Login: Log in to the specific Windows account you wish to configure for auto-start.

Step 1: Configure App Settings

  1. Open the PIA application.

  2. Navigate to Settings > General.

  3. Select Connect on Launch.

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4. Close the PIA application.

Step 2: Create a Scheduled Task

Because standard accounts have limited permissions, you must use the Windows Task Scheduler to trigger the app at login:

  1. Open Task Scheduler:

    • Press the Windows Key.

    • Type "Task Scheduler" to locate the application.

    • Select the Task Scheduler app to open it.

  2. Create Basic Task: Select Create Basic Task from the Actions pane on the right.

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3. Name the Task: Title the task to indicate its function, such as "PIA on Login," then select Next.

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4. Set the Trigger: Select When I log in as the task trigger, then select Next.

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5. Select the Action: Select Start a Program, then select Next.

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6. Program/script: Navigate to the location of the PIA client (typically C:\Program Files\Private Internet Access\pia-client.exe) or type the file location into the box. Select Next.

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7. Finish: On the summary screen, no further customization is required. Select Finish.

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8. Close Task Scheduler: You can now close the application.

Now, whenever you log in to this specific user account, the PIA application starts and connects automatically.

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