How to Make Windows 11 Faster: Simple Tips for a Speed Boost

You can tweak a few things to boost your system's speed. Here’s how to make Windows 11 run faster without needing a tech degree.

1. Trim the Startup Programs

When you turn on your PC, several apps may launch in the background, consuming resources. Let’s reduce that.

• How to do it: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Click the "Startup" tab. You’ll see a list of programs that run at startup. Right-click on anything you don’t need immediately (like chat apps or update checkers) and select "Disable."


• Why it works: Fewer programs at startup mean your PC boots faster and has more memory for what you want to do.

2. Ditch the Visual Effects

Windows 11’s animations and transparency look cool, but they can slow down performance, especially on older hardware.

• How to do it: Search for "Performance" in the Start menu and select "Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows." In the window that appears, choose "Adjust for best performance" or manually uncheck fancy effects like "Animate windows" and "Show shadows."


• Why it works: Less eye candy means your system can focus its power on performance rather than visuals.

3. Update Everything:

It sounds basic, but keeping Windows and your drivers updated can resolve slowdowns caused by bugs or outdated software.

How to do it: Go to Settings (Win + I) > "Windows Update" and click "Check for updates." Install any pending updates. For drivers, visit your PC or graphics card maker’s website (like NVIDIA or AMD) for the latest versions.

Why it works: Updates often include performance tweaks and patches that optimize how Windows operates.

4. Free Up Disk Space

A cluttered drive can slow down your system. Windows 11 has a useful tool to help you clean up.

How to do it: Search for "Storage" in Settings. Turn on "Storage Sense" to automatically clear junk like temporary files. Or click "Cleanup recommendations" to manually delete old downloads, unused apps, or large files you may have forgotten about.

Why it works: More free space on your drive—especially your C: drive—allows Windows to access files more quickly.

5. Switch to High Performance Mode

Windows 11 balances power and performance by default, but you can maximize speed if that’s your priority.

• How to do it: Search for "Power" in the Start menu and choose "Choose a power plan." Select "High performance" (if you don’t see it, click "Show additional plans"). On laptops, keep in mind that this may drain your battery faster.

Why it works: This setting tells your PC to prioritize speed over energy savings, unlocking its full potential.

6. Cut Down on Background Apps

Some apps continue running silently, consuming your RAM and CPU even when you’re not using them.

How to do it: Go to Settings > "Apps" > "Installed apps." Find apps you rarely use and uninstall them. Then go to "Privacy" > "Background apps" and toggle off anything that doesn’t need to run 24/7.

Why it works: Fewer apps using resources means more power for the tasks that matter to you.

7. Check for Malware

If your PC is still slow, lurking malware could be the culprit. Let’s rule that out.

How to do it: Open "Windows Security" from the Start menu, navigate to "Virus & threat protection," and run a full scan. For extra peace of mind, download a free tool like Malwarebytes and run a scan with that as well.

Why it works: Malware can slow down your system. Removing it frees up your PC to operate normally.

Bonus Tip: Upgrade Your Hardware (If Needed)

If you’ve tried everything and it’s still sluggish, your hardware may be the bottleneck. Adding more RAM (8GB is the minimum; 16GB is better) or switching to an SSD if you’re still using an old hard drive can make a significant difference. It’s not free, but it’s a game-changer.

Wrap-Up

With these steps, your Windows 11 PC should feel snappier in no time. Start with the easy fixes like startup programs and visual effects, then explore deeper solutions if needed.