How to Fix Slow Performance on Windows 11: A Complete Guide

Introduction

A Slow Performance on Windows 11 PC can be frustrating, whether you’re working, gaming, or just browsing. Over time, system clutter, unnecessary startup programs, and outdated drivers can make your computer lag.

In this guide, we’ll cover proven ways to speed up Windows 11, ensuring your PC runs efficiently.

Why is Windows 11 Running Slow?

Before jumping into solutions, it’s essential to understand why Windows 11 might be slow:

• Too many startup programs running in the background
• Low disk space affecting system performance
• Outdated drivers causing compatibility issues
• Too many background processes consuming resources
• Fragmented or cluttered storage slowing down file access

Now, let’s fix these issues!

1. Disable Startup Programs

Too many apps launching at startup can slow down your PC. Here’s how to disable unnecessary ones:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click the Startup tab.
3. Identify apps you don’t need at startup.
4. Right-click the app and select Disable.

This prevents unneeded software from slowing down boot times.

2. Free Up Disk Space

A full disk can lead to performance issues. To clean up space:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to System > Storage.
3. Click Temporary Files and delete unnecessary files.
4. Empty the Recycle Bin.

Alternatively, run Disk Cleanup:

• Search for Disk Cleanup in the Start Menu.
• Select your drive (usually C:).
• Check all unnecessary files and click OK.

3. Adjust Windows Performance Settings

Windows 11 comes with visual effects that may slow down performance. Adjust them for better speed:

1. Right-click on This PC and select Properties.
2. Click Advanced System Settings.
3. Under Performance, click Settings.
4. Select Adjust for best performance (or manually disable effects).
5. Click Apply and OK.

This can significantly improve speed, especially on older devices.

4. Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause lag. Keep your system updated:

Update Windows

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Update Drivers

1. Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Display adapters, Network adapters, and Storage controllers.
3. Right-click each driver and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Updating drivers can enhance performance and prevent crashes.

5. Disable Background Apps

Background apps consume memory and slow down Windows 11. Disable them:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Click the three dots next to the app and select Advanced options.
4. Under Background app permissions, choose Never.

Disabling unnecessary apps will free up system resources.

6. Clean Up Your Registry (Advanced Users Only)

The Windows registry stores system settings, and over time, it may get cluttered. Use CCleaner or manually clean it:

1. Press Win + R and type regedit.
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > SOFTWARE.
3. Delete entries of uninstalled software (only if you’re sure).

Be careful when editing the registry. A mistake can cause system errors.

7. Optimize Your Hard Drive (SSD/HDD)

If you’re using an HDD, defragmenting can help:

1. Search for Defragment and Optimize Drives.
2. Select your HDD and click Optimize.

For SSDs, ensure TRIM is enabled:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin) (Win + X > Terminal (Admin)).
2. Type:cmdCopyEditfsutil behavior query DisableDeleteNotify
3. If the result is 0, TRIM is enabled.

8. Disable Unnecessary Services

Windows runs background services that you may not need:

1. Press Win + R and type services.msc.
2. Look for services like SysMain and Connected User Experiences.
3. Right-click and select Properties.
4. Set Startup Type to Disabled.

Disabling unneeded services can free up system memory.

9. Use Windows Troubleshooters

Windows 11 has built-in troubleshooters that can detect issues:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Run Windows Update, Power, and Performance troubleshooters.

This can automatically resolve common system problems.

10. Reset Windows 11 (If Everything Else Fails)

If nothing works, resetting Windows might be the best option:

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to System > Recovery.
3. Click Reset this PC.
4. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
5. Follow on-screen instructions.

This will reinstall Windows while keeping your files (if selected).

Final Thoughts

By following these steps, you can fix slow Windows 11 performance and enjoy a faster, more responsive PC. More important than anything is to be patient while working. If you rush and try everything too fast, it can affect both your performance and your health. Remember, being in IT means finding solutions—even when things don’t work on the first try.

Quick Summary of Fixes:

✔️ Disable unnecessary startup programs
✔️ Free up disk space and clean temp files
✔️ Adjust Windows performance settings
✔️ Keep Windows and drivers updated
✔️ Stop background apps and unnecessary services
✔️ Optimize storage and run troubleshooters

By maintaining your system regularly, you can prevent slowdowns and keep Windows 11 running efficiently! for more tips click here !

FAQs

Why is Windows 11 slow after an update?

Sometimes, updates cause compatibility issues. Try rolling back the update under Settings > Windows Update > Update History.

Can I use third-party software to speed up Windows 11?

Yes, tools like CCleaner and IObit Advanced System Care can help, but manual optimizations are recommended.

Does adding more RAM improve speed?

Yes! Upgrading to at least 8GB or 16GB RAM significantly boosts performance.

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