Top 8 Annoying Features of Windows 11 and How to Fix Them

Windows 11, while heralded as a fresh new take on the beloved operating system, comes bundled with its fair share of aggravations. In this detailed guide, we'll explore the top eight most annoying features users are grumbling about and provide you with handy solutions to disable or mitigate these vexations.

1. CPU-Hogging Startup Apps​

One of the biggest complaints among users revolves around unnecessary startup applications that consume valuable CPU resources. Even those who have top-tier hardware, such as a beastly 32 GB of RAM, often find their systems groaning under the weight of background processes.
How to Disable:

• To manage these pesky startup apps, navigate to Settings > Apps > Startup. From here, disable any non-essential applications, particularly those that do not affect your audio services.

2. Annoying Taskbar Widgets​

If Windows 11 were a person, the widgets could be compared to unwanted wisdom teeth—useless and sometimes painful. Originally designed to offer quick news and updates, users are finding them a drain on resources.
How to Disable:

• Head over to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar items and toggle off the Widgets option. While you're at it, consider trimming down on system tray icons for a more streamlined experience.

3. The Unnecessary OneDrive Backup​

What could have been a revolutionary feature has many users grumbling due to Microsoft's aggressive marketing tactics nudging users towards their Microsoft 365 plans. The default 5 GB of storage for OneDrive fills up faster than an overzealous party host packing the snacks!
How to Disable:

• Uninstall OneDrive completely or simply refrain from signing in. If you've previously logged in and noticed those pesky backup icons, a simple sign-out will solve that problem.

4. The Unremovable Edge Browser​

Edge is like a clingy ex—always around and nearly impossible to shake off! Despite being the default browser for Windows 11, many users see it as a disruptor to the browsing experience.
Workaround:

• While the uninstallation option may be greyed out, you can unpin Edge from your taskbar, set another browser as your default, and disable it from starting up with your PC. Consider using browsers like Brave for a lighter performance.

5. Copilot: More Hype than Help​

The recently introduced Copilot app has landed with a resounding thud, often described as slow and clunky. While it's meant to enhance productivity, its current state leans more towards being a resource hog.
How to Manage:

• If you find yourself not using Copilot, uninstall it or simply disable it from running at startup to conserve system resources.

6. Game Bar: Not Winning Over Non-Gamers​

The Game Bar in Windows 11 delivers useful functionalities for gamers but can be a burden for non-gamers due to its resource consumption.
How to Disable:

• Go to Settings > Gaming > Game Bar and turn off the option that allows the controller to open the Game Bar. Don't forget to also turn off Game Mode in the same settings.

7. Constant Distractions Due to App Badges​

App badges are like that friend who keeps texting you during an important meeting—they pop up unexpectedly at the worst times.
How to Disable:

• Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors, and uncheck the options for badges and flashing on taskbar apps.

8. Search Highlights: Highlighting What’s Not Needed​

The new Search Highlights feature can often distract users from their actual search queries, leading to irrelevant information showing up when it’s least wanted.
How to Disable:

• To declutter your search experience, head to Settings > Privacy & Security > More settings, and turn off Show search highlights.

Conclusion: Windows 11 and Its Infuriating Quirks​

While Windows 11 has its strengths, the frustrations it brings can overshadow the innovations. The frequent updates, redesigned Start menu, and plethora of built-in features often serve to complicate an otherwise user-friendly experience. By taking the time to disable these annoyances, users can reclaim performance and customize their interaction with Windows 11 in ways that work best for them.
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to tackling eight of the most irritating aspects of Windows 11, enabling you to regain control and enhance your workflow.
Source: Make Tech Easier 8 Annoying Details of Windows 11 (and How to Disable Them)