How to Speed Up Windows 11: Ultimate Guide for Faster Performance

Windows 11 is a sleek, modern operating system, but over time, it can slow down due to various reasons like unnecessary apps, bloated startup programs, and outdated drivers. If your PC is sluggish, don’t worry! This guide will show you how to speed up Windows 11 with easy-to-follow tips that  will enhance performance without compromising functionality.

1. Disable Startup Programs

One of the easiest ways to speed up Windows 11 is by reducing the number of startup programs. When too many apps launch at startup, they consume system resources, slowing down your PC.

How to Disable Startup Programs:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click on the Startup tab.
3. Look for unnecessary programs, right-click, and select Disable.

Reducing startup load ensures that Windows 11 boots faster and runs efficiently.

2. Uninstall Unnecessary Apps

Over time, your PC may accumulate apps that you no longer use, which can slow down performance. Removing them is a great way to speed up Windows 11.

Steps to Uninstall Unwanted Apps:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Click on unnecessary apps and select Uninstall.

This frees up system resources and improves overall speed.

3. Enable Storage Sense

A cluttered hard drive can slow down performance. To speed up Windows 11, use Storage Sense to automatically clear temporary files and unnecessary data.

How to Enable Storage Sense:

1. Open Settings and go to System > Storage.
2. Toggle on Storage Sense.
3. Click Configure Storage Sense and set it to run automatically.

This will ensure your system remains clean and optimised.

4. Adjust Visual Effects

Windows 11 comes with stunning animations and visual effects, but they can strain older or lower-end hardware. Reducing these effects can significantly speed up Windows 11.

How to Adjust Visual Effects:

1. Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Go to the Advanced tab and click Settings under Performance.
3. Select Adjust for best performance or manually disable effects.

This makes Windows 11 feel much snappier.

5. Disable Background Apps

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Many apps run in the background, consuming RAM and CPU power. Disabling them can help speed up Windows 11.

Steps to Disable Background Apps:

1. Open Settings and navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
2. Click on an app, go to Advanced options, and set Background app permissions to Never.

This prevents apps from using resources unnecessarily.

6. Use High-Performance Power Plan

Windows 11 balances performance and battery life, but if speed is your priority, switching to a high-performance power plan can help.

How to Change Power Plan:

1. Press Win + X and select Power Options.
2. Click Additional power settings.
3. Choose High performance or Ultimate performance (if available).

This ensures your PC runs at its best.

7. Keep Windows 11 Updated

Regular updates fix bugs, improve security, and optimise performance. To ensure your system is running efficiently, always keep Windows 11 up to date.

How to Check for Updates:

1. Open Settings and go to Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your PC.

Keeping your system updated is a simple but effective way to speed up Windows 11.

8. Upgrade to an SSD

If your PC still uses an HDD, upgrading to an SSD is the best way to speed up Windows 11. SSDs are significantly faster than traditional hard drives, reducing boot time and enhancing overall performance.

How to Upgrade to an SSD:

1. Purchase a compatible SSD.
2. Use cloning software to transfer your system data.
3. Replace the HDD with the SSD and reinstall Windows 11 if needed.

This single upgrade can transform your PC’s speed dramatically.

9. Manage Virtual Memory

Virtual memory acts as additional RAM when your physical RAM is full. Optimising virtual memory settings can help speed up Windows 11.

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How to Adjust Virtual Memory:

1. Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Go to the Advanced tab and click Settings under Performance.
3. Under Virtual memory, click Change.
4. Set the Initial size and Maximum size based on your RAM size (1.5x to 3x your RAM).

This prevents slowdowns caused by memory shortages.

10. Scan for Malware and Viruses

Malware and viruses can severely impact performance. Running a security scan can help speed up Windows 11 by removing harmful threats.

How to Scan for Malware:

1. Open Windows Security.
2. Click Virus & threat protection.
3. Select Quick scan or Full scan.

Using reliable antivirus software can further enhance security and performance.

11. Disable Unnecessary Services

Some Windows services run in the background, consuming resources without being essential. Disabling them can help speed up Windows 11.

How to Disable Unnecessary Services:

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Look for unnecessary services (e.g., SysMain, Connected User Experiences).
3. Right-click, select Properties, and set Startup type to Disabled.

Be cautious and only disable services you’re sure you don’t need.

12. Clean Your PC’s Hardware

Overheating can throttle performance. Cleaning dust from your PC’s fans and vents can speed up Windows 11 by ensuring optimal cooling.

Steps to Clean Your PC:

1. Turn off your PC and unplug it.
2. Use compressed air to remove dust from vents and fans.
3. Ensure proper airflow by keeping vents unobstructed.

This helps prevent overheating and performance drops.

By following these tips, you can significantly speed up Windows 11 and enjoy a smoother, faster computing experience. Whether you’re disabling startup programs, upgrading to an SSD, or tweaking performance settings, these methods will help your PC run at its best. Try them today and notice the difference!