9 Windows Default Settings to Optimize Performance, Security, and Usability

Windows, while robust and feature-rich, comes with default settings that may not align with every user's preferences. Adjusting these settings can enhance performance, bolster security, and improve overall usability. Below are nine default Windows settings you might consider changing for a more optimized experience.

1. Show File Extensions to Identify File Types​

By default, Windows hides file extensions, which can make it challenging to identify file types at a glance. This concealment can also pose security risks, as malicious files might masquerade as harmless documents.
How to Enable File Extensions:

• Open File Explorer.
• Click on the View tab.
• Check the box labeled File name extensions.

Enabling this setting allows you to see the full file names, including their extensions, aiding in better file management and security.

2. Configure Power Modes for Optimal Performance​

Windows offers multiple power modes—Best performance, Balanced, and Best power efficiency. The default setting may prioritize energy savings over performance, potentially leading to sluggish system behavior.
How to Adjust Power Mode:

• Go to Settings > System > Power & battery.
• Under Power mode, select Best performance.

This adjustment ensures your system operates at its full potential, especially when plugged in.

3. Set Higher Refresh Rates for Smoother Visuals​

If your monitor supports higher refresh rates (e.g., 120Hz or 144Hz), Windows might not utilize them by default, resulting in less fluid visuals.
How to Change Refresh Rate:

• Navigate to Settings > System > Display.
• Click on Advanced display settings.
• Under Refresh rate, choose the highest available option.

Increasing the refresh rate enhances the smoothness of on-screen motion, beneficial for both everyday tasks and gaming.

4. Disable Windows Ads and Suggestions​

Windows often displays ads and suggestions in various places, such as the Start menu, lock screen, and even File Explorer. These can be distracting and may not be relevant to your needs.
How to Turn Off Ads:

• Start Menu and Lock Screen:
• Go to Settings > Personalization > Start.
• Toggle off Show suggestions occasionally in Start.
• Navigate to Lock screen and set Background to Picture or Slideshow to avoid ads.
• File Explorer:
• Open File Explorer.
• Click on the View tab and select Options.
• In the Folder Options window, go to the View tab.
• Uncheck Show sync provider notifications.

Disabling these settings provides a cleaner, more focused user interface.

5. Manage OneDrive Sync Settings​

OneDrive automatically syncs certain folders, which might consume bandwidth and storage space, especially if you're on a limited plan.
How to Configure OneDrive Sync:

• Click on the OneDrive icon in the system tray.
• Select Help & Settings > Settings.
• In the Account tab, click Choose folders.
• Uncheck folders you don't want to sync.

Customizing these settings ensures only essential files are synchronized, conserving resources.

6. Customize the Taskbar for Efficiency​

The default taskbar includes icons and features that you might not use, such as the Search box or Task View button.
How to Personalize the Taskbar:

• Right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings.
• Toggle off features you don't use, like Search, Task View, or Widgets.

Streamlining the taskbar reduces clutter and focuses on the tools you use most.

7. Enable and Calibrate HDR for Better Display Quality​

If you have an HDR-compatible monitor, Windows might not enable HDR by default, leading to suboptimal display quality.
How to Enable and Calibrate HDR:

• Go to Settings > System > Display.
• Click on Windows HD Color settings.
• Toggle on Use HDR.
• Download and run the Windows HDR Calibration app from the Microsoft Store to fine-tune settings.

Proper HDR calibration enhances color accuracy and visual depth.

8. Change the Default Search Engine in Microsoft Edge​

Microsoft Edge uses Bing as the default search engine, which might not be your preference.
How to Set a Different Default Search Engine:

• Open Microsoft Edge.
• Click on the three-dot menu and select Settings.
• Navigate to Privacy, search, and services.
• Under Services, click Address bar and search.
• Choose your preferred search engine from the list.

This change ensures your searches are conducted through your search engine of choice.

9. Install PowerToys for Enhanced Functionality​

PowerToys is a suite of utilities that can significantly enhance your Windows experience, offering tools like PowerToys Run for quick application launching and FancyZones for advanced window management.
How to Install PowerToys:

• Visit the PowerToys GitHub page.
• Download and install the latest release.

Exploring PowerToys can introduce you to features that streamline your workflow and improve productivity.
By adjusting these default settings, you can tailor Windows to better suit your needs, leading to a more efficient and personalized computing experience.

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Source: MakeUseOf 9 Default Windows Settings That Make Your Life Harder