Windows 11 Speed Hacks: Boosting Performance with Proven Techniques
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Is your Windows 11 computer dragging its feet? Are you frustrated with sluggish performance, high RAM, CPU, and Disk Usage? Fear not, as we unveil a detailed guide on how to make your Windows 11 computer run faster. Say goodbye to bloatware, unnecessary startup apps, and resource-hogging programs. Let’s dive into the intricacies of optimizing your system for peak performance.
Disable Startup Apps
Microsoft’s default tendency to launch apps like Skype, Teams, and OneDrive on startup can significantly slow down your system. Take control by following these steps:
- Open Settings > Select Apps > Click on Startup.
- Move the toggle to the OFF position for apps you don’t want at startup.
Experience a noticeable improvement as your computer boots up without the burden of unnecessary applications.
Prevent Apps from Running in the Background
Even after disabling startup apps, some Microsoft applications persist in running in the background. Let’s put an end to this:
- Open Settings > Select Apps > Click on Installed Apps.
- Click on the 3-dots icon next to the app > Advanced options.
- Set “Background apps permissions” to Never.
Enjoy a streamlined experience as resource-draining apps no longer linger in the background.
Remove Bloatware
Manufacturers often pre-install unwanted apps, known as bloatware, on new computers. Reclaim your system’s performance by uninstalling these:
- Type Control Panel in the Search bar > Click on Uninstall a program.
- Right-click on the program you want to remove > Click Uninstall.
Repeat these steps to purge your computer of unwanted programs and witness a faster, more responsive Windows 11 experience.
Run Disk Cleanup
Free up valuable storage space by using the Disk Cleanup utility to eliminate redundant files:
- Type Disk Cleanup in the Search bar > Click on Disk Cleanup App.
- Select all types of files you want to clear > Click OK.
Revel in improved system speed as you declutter your storage.
Disable Tips & Tricks
Microsoft’s tips and suggestions feature can be a resource hog, particularly on budget computers. Disable it for a potential boost in performance:
- Go to Settings > System > Notifications > Additional Settings.
- Uncheck “Get tips and suggestions when using Windows.”
Experience reduced disk usage and enhanced system performance.
Switch OFF Diagnostic Data & Tailored Experiences
Reduce resource usage by disabling telemetry services:
- Go to Settings > Select Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & Feedback Card.
- Disable Diagnostic data, Improve inking & typing, and Tailored experiences.
Users have reported decreased CPU usage after implementing this tweak.
Disable Updates from More Than One Place
Fine-tune your update settings to reduce Runtime Broker Activity:
- Open Settings > Select Windows Update > Click on Advanced Options.
- Click on Delivery Optimization > Disable “Allow Downloads from other PCs.”
Experience lower RAM and CPU usage after making this adjustment.
Setup Visual Effects for Best Performance
Optimize your system’s visual effects for performance rather than appearance:
- Right-click on the Start button > Click on Run.
- Type SystemPropertiesAdvanced in the Run Command window > Click OK.
- Switch to the Advanced tab > Click on the Settings button under “Performance.”
- On the Visual Effects tab, select “Adjust for best performance.”
Witness a faster, more responsive interface with optimized visual effects.
Update Device Drivers
Ensure your device drivers are up-to-date and compatible with Windows 11:
- Right-click on the Start button > Click on Device Manager.
- Click on Action > Scan for hardware changes.
Keep your system running smoothly with the latest driver updates.
Check for Viruses and Malware
Protect your system’s performance by ensuring your antivirus program is up to date. Scan your computer using the free Microsoft Safety Scanner to detect and eliminate malware.
Check the Hard Drive for Errors
Maintain your system’s health by checking for hard drive errors:
- Type PowerShell in the Search bar > Right-click on Windows PowerShell > Run as Administrator.
- Type chkdsk.exe /f /r > Press Enter.
- If prompted to schedule a volume check on the next restart, type Y.
Restart your computer and allow Windows to scan for errors, ensuring optimal hard drive performance.
Why is my new Windows 11 computer running slow?
New computers often come loaded with bloatware, which can contribute to sluggish performance. Additionally, certain apps may automatically start up with the computer, impacting its speed.
How can I prevent apps from starting up with Windows 11?
Open Settings, go to Apps and click on Startup. Toggle off the apps you don’t want to start automatically with your computer.
What’s the impact of background apps on system performance?
Even after startup, some apps like Skype and OneDrive continue running in the background, consuming resources. Disable this by adjusting background app permissions in Settings.
How do I remove bloatware from my Windows 11 PC?
Type Control Panel in the search bar, click on Uninstall a program, then right-click on the unwanted program and select Uninstall.
Can Disk Cleanup improve my computer’s speed?
Yes, using Disk Cleanup helps eliminate redundant files, freeing up storage space and contributing to improved system speed.
What are the benefits of disabling Tips & Tricks in Windows 11?
Disabling Tips & Tricks can reduce resource usage, particularly on budget computers, leading to enhanced system performance and lower disk usage.
How does disabling Diagnostic Data and Tailored Experiences help?
Disabling these services reduces resource usage on the computer, potentially decreasing CPU usage, and improving overall system performance.
Why should I disable updates from more than one place?
Disabling updates from more than one place, under Delivery Optimization, can reduce Runtime Broker Activity, resulting in lower RAM and CPU usage.
How can adjusting visual effects improve performance?
Right-click on the Start button, go to Run, type SystemPropertiesAdvanced, and under Visual Effects, choose “Adjust for best performance.” This optimizes the system’s visual effects for improved performance.
Why is updating device drivers essential for Windows 11 performance?
Keeping device drivers up-to-date ensures compatibility with the latest version of Windows 11, contributing to a smooth and efficient system.
What role does checking for viruses and malware play in performance optimization?
Viruses and malware not only pose security risks but can also impact system performance. Regularly updating antivirus programs and running scans can help maintain optimal performance.
How does checking the hard drive for errors contribute to system health?
Running checks for hard drive errors, using PowerShell, and entering the command: chkdsk.exe /f /r
> Press Enter, helps identify and repair issues, ensuring the overall health and performance of the system.
In conclusion
By following these comprehensive steps, you can transform your Windows 11 computer into a well-oiled machine, free from the shackles of sluggishness. Implement these strategies, and witness a noticeable boost in speed and overall performance.