If your Windows 11 PC is feeling sluggish and is taking its sweet time to boot up or launch apps, you’re not alone. While Windows 11 brings a sleek design and modern features to your desktop, a cluttered system or overdue maintenance can sometimes hamper its performance. Today, we’re exploring 12 practical and innovative strategies to supercharge your Windows 11 experience—transforming your everyday computing into a snappy, efficient affair.
What tweaks have worked best for you? Share your experiences and additional tips on the forum—let’s help everyone get the most out of their Windows 11 setup!
Happy optimizing!
Source: SlashGear https://www.slashgear.com/1784201/1how-make-windows-11-run-faster/
1. Restart and Update: The Classic First Aid
Before diving into more involved tweaks, it’s worth paying homage to the trusty “turn it off and on again” approach. A simple restart can clear out accumulated digital clutter, close errant processes, and refresh system resources. Windows 11, like any operating system, benefits immensely from periodic restarts. Additionally, don’t forget to run system updates:- Why it works: Updates often include performance fixes, bug patches, and security improvements.
- Pro Tip: Schedule a weekly restart to let your PC shed its digital cobwebs.
2. Disable Startup Apps: Lighten the Load
Every application that autostarts with Windows can slowly eat away at valuable system resources. You can easily trim down what runs at startup to free up processing power:- How to do it:
- Via Settings: Navigate to Settings > Apps > Startup and toggle off non-essential apps.
- Via Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to the Startup tab, and disable programs with a high startup impact.
- Consideration: Avoid disabling critical system processes like drivers; focus on non-essential software.
3. Manage Running Programs with Task Manager
Sometimes, the culprit behind slowdown is an application that's hogging resources in the background. The Task Manager is your “digital gladiator” that allows you to end such tasks:- Steps:
- Open Task Manager using Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Monitor CPU, memory, disk, and network columns to identify resource-heavy apps.
- Right-click on suspect processes and select End task—but be cautious not to terminate anything essential.
4. Uninstall Crapware with Revo or Geek: Clean House!
Pre-installed bloatware or so-called “crapware” can often be mapped out by software vendors to get extra mileage from your device. Programs like McAfee antivirus or trial software might linger long after you no longer need them. Remove these extras to reclaim performance:- Tools to Consider:
- Geek Uninstaller: A straightforward tool for removing unwanted programs.
- Revo Uninstaller: Dives deep to clear out residual files and registry entries (create a system restore point first!).
5. Upgrade Hardware: Invest in an SSD and More RAM
Sometimes software tweaks aren’t enough, and a hardware upgrade is the best remedy. Swapping a traditional HDD for a Solid State Drive (SSD) or adding more RAM can dramatically improve boot times and app responsiveness:- SSD Benefits: Quicker boot and load times, reduced noise, and enhanced durability.
- RAM Considerations: More memory allows for smoother multitasking and prevents slowdowns when running modern, resource-intensive applications.
6. Optimize Windows Security: Scan for Malware
Malware, viruses, and other digital nuisances can significantly slow down your system as they hog resources and corrupt files. Windows Security is a built-in ally in this fight:- Steps:
- Open Windows Security and run a full scan under Virus & threat protection.
- Investigate Device performance & health for any additional recommendations.
7. Switch to the Best Performance Power Mode
Modern PCs often come with power-saving settings that inadvertently throttle performance. To get your full horsepower:- How to adjust:
- Go to Settings > System > Power & battery > Power Mode.
- Change from “Best Power Efficiency” to “Best Performance.”
- Desktop Users: You might have access to additional options like “High Performance” or even “Ultimate Performance” via the Control Panel.
8. Clear Up Disk Space: Freeing the Clutter
As your hard drive fills up, performance can take a hit. Freeing up disk space can give your computer the breathing room it needs:- Built-in Tools:
- Enable Storage Sense in Settings > System > Storage to automatically clear temporary files.
- Use the “Cleanup recommendations” feature to remove outdated cache files.
- Additional Tip: Consider manual “spring cleaning” of personal files or adopting cloud storage solutions like OneDrive for non-essential data.
9. Adjust Visual Effects for a Leaner Interface
Though dazzling animations and transparency effects give Windows 11 its modern aesthetic, they can also consume precious resources:- How to optimize:
- Head to Settings > Accessibility > Visual Effects and toggle off Animation effects and Transparency effects.
- For an even more minimalist approach, open the Control Panel, navigate to System > Advanced system settings > Performance Settings, and choose “Adjust for best performance.”
10. Pause OneDrive (or Other Cloud Storage Providers)
Cloud storage is fantastic for backup, but background syncing can choke your system, especially when handling large files:- To pause:
- Locate the OneDrive icon in your taskbar.
- Right-click and select the option to pause syncing (with durations up to 24 hours).
11. Disable File Explorer Search Indexing
File indexing is designed to speed up searches by preloading file information. However, if you aren’t a heavy searcher—or if you’re running an SSD—this feature might be more of a hindrance:- Steps:
- Open File Explorer, right-click on your system drive, select Properties.
- Uncheck the box labeled “Allow files on this drive to have contents indexed in addition to file properties.”
12. Return to a System Restore Point: Start Afresh
When all else fails and your system performance has inexplicably deteriorated, reverting to a previous working state can have a miraculous effect:- How to do it:
- Open Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore.
- Select a restore point dating back to when your system was running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Optimizing Windows 11 doesn't have to be a daunting task reserved for IT wizards. With a few thoughtful tweaks—from routine restarts to hardware upgrades—you can reignite your system's performance and make your computing experience smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user seeking every bit of efficiency, these 12 tips offer a blueprint for a faster, more responsive Windows 11.What tweaks have worked best for you? Share your experiences and additional tips on the forum—let’s help everyone get the most out of their Windows 11 setup!
Happy optimizing!
Source: SlashGear https://www.slashgear.com/1784201/1how-make-windows-11-run-faster/