Microsoft has introduced a new feature in Windows 11 aimed at addressing performance issues by automatically collecting diagnostic data when users experience system sluggishness. This initiative is part of the upcoming 25H2 update and is currently being tested in the Windows Insider Program.
Automatic Performance Logging
In response to user feedback regarding Windows 11's performance, Microsoft has implemented an automatic performance log collection system. When users report slow or unresponsive behavior through the Feedback Hub, the system generates real-time performance logs stored locally in the
%systemRoot%\Temp\DiagOutputDir\Whesvc folder. These logs are only transmitted to Microsoft when users voluntarily submit feedback, ensuring user control over data sharing. This approach aims to provide Microsoft with detailed insights into performance issues, facilitating quicker identification and resolution of problems. (tomshardware.com)Addressing Performance Concerns
Since its launch in October 2021, Windows 11 has faced criticism for performance issues, including lower gaming performance on new CPUs and inconsistent responsiveness compared to Windows 10. Microsoft has made several updates to improve the taskbar, notification area, and quick settings. The introduction of automatic performance logging represents a proactive step toward diagnosing and addressing these concerns more effectively. (techradar.com)
Enhancements in the 25H2 Update
The 25H2 update builds upon the improvements introduced in the 24H2 release, which successfully enhanced performance on older devices. Key features of the 25H2 update include:
- Quick Machine Recovery (QMR): A system recovery tool that utilizes the Windows Recovery Environment and Windows Update to fix boot issues by downloading targeted fixes based on diagnostic logs. (windowscentral.com)
- Adaptive Energy Saver: An energy efficiency mode that uses system telemetry to automatically activate Energy Saver when needed, available for laptops and desktops with battery backup. (windowscentral.com)
- App Permission Dialog Redesign: A visual update that centralizes permission prompts and dims backgrounds for increased user focus, enhancing the security experience. (windowscentral.com)
- Administrator Protection: A new security feature that improves upon User Account Control by using an isolated system-managed admin account for elevated actions, reducing vulnerability exposure. (windowscentral.com)
- Third-Party Passkey Integration: Support for external passkey providers such as 1Password, allowing users to manage authentication credentials via Windows Hello. (windowscentral.com)
- Click to Do – Describe Image: An AI-powered tool for Copilot+ PCs that creates on-device image descriptions, enhancing accessibility and productivity. (windowscentral.com)
Microsoft has also optimized the Windows Update process in the 24H2 release, resulting in up to 45.6% faster installation times and 25% lower CPU utilization during updates. These improvements are achieved through parallel processing of component manifests, caching parsing results, and dynamic RAM allocation. (tomshardware.com)
User Feedback and Privacy Considerations
Microsoft encourages users, especially those in the Windows Insider Program, to report performance issues through the Feedback Hub under the "System Sluggishness" category. The automatic performance logging feature is designed to collect data only when users submit feedback, ensuring that data collection is consensual and transparent. (windowslatest.com)
Conclusion
The introduction of automatic performance logging in Windows 11 reflects Microsoft's commitment to enhancing system performance and responsiveness. By proactively collecting diagnostic data and implementing targeted improvements in the 25H2 update, Microsoft aims to address user concerns and provide a more efficient and reliable operating system experience.
Source: indiaherald.com Windows 11: Microsoft Launches Performance Improvement Tool.
