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

Introduction

Experiencing slow performance on Windows 11 can be frustrating, whether you’re working, gaming, or just browsing. Over time, unnecessary background processes, startup apps, and outdated drivers can cause noticeable slowdowns. According to Microsoft Support, common causes of slow performance include too many startup programs, low disk space, and outdated drivers.

If you’ve noticed your Windows 11 PC running slow, don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll explore proven methods to fix slow performance on Windows 11 and make your computer run smoothly again.

Why is Windows 11 Running Slow?

Before applying fixes, let’s understand why your PC might have slow performance on Windows 11:

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✅ Outdated drivers, causing compatibility issues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

Now, let’s go step by step to boost your PC’s speed!

1. Disable Startup Programs

One of the main causes of slow performance on Windows 11 is too many apps launching at startup. Disable unnecessary ones to speed up boot time:

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 each app and select Disable.

🚀 This helps improve system boot time significantly!wn boot times.

2. Free Up Disk Space

A full disk can slow down Windows 11. To clean up space:

Method 1: Use Windows Storage Cleanup

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

Method 2: Run Disk Cleanup

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

✅ Result: Your PC will have more free space and faster performance.

3. Adjust Windows Performance Settings

Windows 11 includes visual effects that may contribute to slow performance on Windows 11. 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 tweak is especially useful for older PCs!

4. Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated drivers can contribute to slow performance on Windows 11. 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.

✅ Result: Improved system stability and faster performance!

5. Disable Background Apps

Background apps can consume memory and cause slow performance on Windows 11. To 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.

🚀 Boost system speed by preventing unnecessary background processes!

6. Clean Up Your Registry (Advanced Users Only)

The Windows Registry can get cluttered over time, causing slow performance on Windows 11. You can clean it manually or use CCleaner.

🛠 Manual Cleanup:

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

⚠️ Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system errors. Proceed with caution.

7. Optimize Your Hard Drive (SSD/HDD)

For HDD Users:

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

For SSD Users:

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

✅ Faster file access and system responsiveness!

8. Disable Unnecessary Services

Windows runs background services that you may not need, which can slow down Windows 11.

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.

🚀 Frees up system resources for better performance!

9. Use Windows Troubleshooters

Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters to detect and fix performance issues:

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

✅ Fixes system issues automatically!

10. Reset Windows 11 (If Everything Else Fails)

If none of the above methods work, resetting Windows can fix slow performance on Windows 11:

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

🚀 This restores Windows 11 to peak performance!

Final Thoughts

Fixing slow performance on Windows 11 is easier than you think! By applying these optimizations, you can ensure faster boot times, smoother performance, and improved productivity.

✔ 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 a more in-depth exploration of these tips and additional methods to enhance your PC’s performance, check out this Lifewire article.

Stay Updated for More Windows Tips!

🚀 For more Windows performance guides, check out our article on How Technology is Impacting Nature.

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