Is your Windows 11 computer starting to feel sluggish? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Over time, computers collect unnecessary files, background apps pile up, and performance slows down. The good news is that you don’t need to be a tech genius to fix this. With a few simple cleanup tricks, you can give your PC a fresh start and make it run faster than ever.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to clean up your computer to run faster on Windows 11, using built-in tools, smart habits, and a few advanced tricks. Let’s dive in!
Why Does Your Windows 11 PC Slow Down?
Before cleaning, it’s important to know why your computer gets slow in the first place.
- Junk files from apps and browsers.
- Too many startup programs running in the background.
- Fragmented or bloated storage.
- Old software updates that haven’t been installed.
- Malware or unnecessary apps eating up resources.
Think of your computer like a messy desk—if papers and clutter pile up, it’s harder to work efficiently.
Step 1 – Delete Temporary and Junk Files
Temporary files may sound harmless, but they can hog gigabytes of space.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Storage.
- Select Temporary Files.
- Check items like System cache, Thumbnails, Delivery Optimization files.
- Hit Remove files.
Bonus Tip: Use the Storage Sense feature to automatically delete junk files.
Step 2 – Uninstall Unnecessary Apps
Got apps you don’t use? They’re slowing you down.
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
- Scroll through the list and remove what you don’t need.
- Right-click and select Uninstall.
It’s like decluttering your closet—you’ll instantly feel lighter.
Step 3 – Disable Startup Programs
Too many apps launching at startup can make your PC crawl.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup Apps tab.
- Right-click unnecessary apps and select Disable.
Only keep essentials like antivirus.
Step 4 – Clear Browser Cache and Extensions
Your browser can become a performance hog.
- Clear cache and cookies from Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.
- Remove extensions you don’t use.
This not only speeds up browsing but also reduces memory usage.
Step 5 – Run Disk Cleanup Tool
Windows 11 still includes the classic Disk Cleanup.
- Type Disk Cleanup in the search bar.
- Choose your main drive (usually C:).
- Select files like Recycle Bin, Temporary Internet Files.
- Click OK to free up space.
Step 6 – Optimize Storage with Storage Sense
Storage Sense is like an automated maid for your PC.
- Go to Settings > System > Storage.
- Turn on Storage Sense.
- Customize how often it deletes junk files.
Set it and forget it!
Step 7 – Defragment and Optimize Drives
If you use an HDD (not SSD), defragmenting improves performance.
- Search Defragment and Optimize Drives.
- Select your drive.
- Click Optimize.
For SSDs, Windows automatically performs trimming to keep them efficient.
Step 8 – Update Windows and Drivers
Old software can slow things down.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update and install updates.
- Update drivers through Device Manager or the manufacturer’s website.
Keeping your PC fresh is like getting regular oil changes for your car.
Step 9 – Adjust Visual Effects for Performance
Windows 11 looks beautiful, but animations can slow things down.
- Search Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows.
- Select Adjust for best performance or manually uncheck effects like transparency.
You’ll trade a little beauty for a lot more speed.
Step 10 – Free Up Space with OneDrive or External Storage
Running low on storage? That’s a performance killer.
- Move photos and videos to OneDrive.
- Store large files on an external hard drive.
- Keep your main drive under 80% full for smooth performance.
Step 11 – Scan for Malware and Viruses
Nothing slows a PC faster than malware.
- Run a Windows Security (Defender) scan.
- Consider using trusted third-party antivirus.
- Avoid downloading apps from unknown sources.
Prevention is always better than cure.
Step 12 – Manage Background Apps
Background apps quietly drain memory.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & Features.
- Select an app and click Advanced Options.
- Under Background app permissions, choose Never.
This gives your PC breathing room.
Step 13 – Clean the Registry (With Caution)
The Windows registry holds system settings. Over time, it gets cluttered.
- Use tools like CCleaner (carefully) to remove invalid entries.
- Always back up your registry before cleaning.
This step is optional, but it can make a difference on older PCs.
Step 14 – Reset Your PC (Last Resort)
If nothing else works, resetting Windows 11 is like hitting the refresh button.
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
- Select Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
Your PC will feel brand new afterward.
Advanced Tips for Extra Speed
- Upgrade to an SSD – If you’re still on HDD, this is the single biggest speed boost.
- Add more RAM – 8GB is good, 16GB is better.
- Use ReadyBoost (for older PCs) with a fast USB stick.
- Turn off background syncing apps you rarely use.
Benefits of Regular Cleanup
Keeping your PC clean isn’t just about speed.
- Longer lifespan – Hardware works less hard.
- More storage – No more “disk full” warnings.
- Better security – Fewer leftover files for hackers to exploit.
- Smooth multitasking – No more freezing when switching apps.
Conclusion
Cleaning up your Windows 11 computer is like giving it a spa day—it comes out refreshed, lighter, and ready to perform. From deleting junk files to disabling startup apps and tweaking settings, these steps can breathe new life into your PC.
You don’t need expensive software or tech skills—just a little time and consistency. Make cleanup a habit, and your computer will reward you with smooth, fast performance every day.
FAQs
Q1: How often should I clean up my Windows 11 PC?
At least once a month for basic cleanup. Run deeper scans and uninstall unused apps every 3–6 months.
Q2: Does Windows 11 have a built-in cleaner?
Yes, tools like Storage Sense and Disk Cleanup are built-in to remove junk automatically.
Q3: Will cleaning speed up gaming on Windows 11?
Definitely! Freeing up resources gives games more power, resulting in smoother performance.
Q4: Is it safe to delete temporary files?
Yes, Windows only deletes files that are safe to remove, like cache and logs.
Q5: Should I upgrade hardware or just clean up software?
Start with a cleanup. If your PC is still slow, upgrading to an SSD or adding more RAM gives the biggest speed boost.