Is your Windows 11 computer running slower than it should? Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Many users find that over time, their PCs become sluggish due to unnecessary apps, startup programs, or even outdated settings.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to speed up your computer on Windows 11 with fast and easy tips. Whether you’re a beginner or a power user, you’ll learn step-by-step methods to make your PC run smoother, faster, and more efficiently.
📝 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)
Disable startup apps to reduce boot time.
Uninstall bloatware and unnecessary apps.
Adjust power settings to maximize performance.
Clean up storage using Storage Sense or Disk Cleanup.
Update Windows & drivers for better stability and speed.
Upgrade RAM or switch to SSD if hardware is outdated.
Why Is My Windows 11 Computer So Slow?
A slow PC can feel frustrating, like driving a car with the handbrake on. Some common reasons include:
Too many background apps.
Low storage space or a cluttered hard drive.
Outdated software or drivers.
Malware or unnecessary startup processes.
Weak hardware (HDD instead of SSD, not enough RAM).
The good news? With a few adjustments, you can bring back that “new PC” speed.
How to Speed Up Windows 11: Fast and Easy Tips
Let’s dive into step-by-step solutions.
1. Disable Startup Apps
Startup apps slow down boot time.
Steps:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Go to Startup apps.
Right-click unnecessary apps and select Disable.
💡 Tip: Keep antivirus and essential apps enabled, but disable things like Spotify, Teams, or auto-updaters you don’t need right away.
2. Uninstall Bloatware and Unused Programs
Old apps eat storage and resources.
Steps:
Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
Browse the list and uninstall apps you don’t use.
Restart your PC to free up memory.
3. Adjust Power Settings for Performance
Windows defaults to a balanced plan, but you can prioritize speed.
Steps:
Open Settings > System > Power & battery.
Under Power mode, choose Best performance.
4. Free Up Storage Space
Low disk space = slow performance.
Option A: Use Storage Sense
Go to Settings > System > Storage.
Enable Storage Sense to auto-clean temp files and recycle bin.
Option B: Manual Cleanup
Type Disk Cleanup in Start menu.
Select your drive and remove junk files.
5. Update Windows and Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause lag and instability.
Steps:
Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
For drivers:
Press Win + X > Device Manager.
Right-click GPU/Network/Audio > Update driver.
6. Manage Background Apps
Apps running in the background eat CPU and memory.
Steps:
Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
Select an app > Advanced options.
Under Background app permissions, choose Never.
7. Use ReadyBoost (For Old PCs)
If your PC has low RAM, ReadyBoost can help.
Steps:
Insert a USB drive.
Right-click > Properties > ReadyBoost.
Dedicate it to system speed.
8. Defragment or Optimize Drives
For HDD users:
Search Defragment and Optimize Drives.
Select your hard drive > Optimize.
⚡ If you have an SSD, Windows manages optimization automatically — no need to defragment.
9. Disable Visual Effects
Pretty animations can slow down older PCs.
Steps:
Press Win + R, type
sysdm.cpl.Go to Advanced > Performance > Settings.
Select Adjust for best performance.
10. Scan for Malware
Viruses can secretly eat up resources.
Steps:
Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
Run a Quick scan or Full scan.
Remove threats if found.
11. Increase Virtual Memory
Virtual memory helps when RAM runs low.
Steps:
Press Win + R, type
sysdm.cpl.Go to Advanced > Performance > Virtual memory.
Set Custom size (usually 1.5x your RAM).
12. Upgrade Hardware
If your PC is still slow, consider:
Upgrading to an SSD (huge speed boost vs. HDD).
Adding more RAM (8GB+ recommended).
Replacing old CPU/GPU if your PC is very outdated.
Pro Tips to Keep Windows 11 Fast
Restart your PC regularly.
Keep at least 20% free disk space.
Don’t install too many background utilities.
Use lightweight antivirus (Windows Defender is enough for most).
Clean dust from your PC for better airflow and performance.
Conclusion: Boost Windows 11 Speed Easily
Speeding up your computer in Windows 11 doesn’t need complicated tweaks. By disabling startup apps, cleaning up storage, adjusting power settings, and updating your system, you can instantly notice performance improvements.
If your PC is still slow after these fixes, upgrading hardware like RAM or an SSD can make a world of difference.
FAQs: How to Speed Up My Computer Windows 11
1. What is the fastest way to make Windows 11 run faster?
Disable startup apps and switch to Best performance power mode.
2. Does Windows 11 slow down older PCs?
Yes, if your hardware is limited. Adding more RAM or upgrading to an SSD helps a lot.
3. Should I turn off visual effects in Windows 11?
Yes, on older PCs. It reduces load and speeds up performance.
4. How much RAM is enough for Windows 11?
8GB is the sweet spot for most users, 16GB+ for gaming or heavy multitasking.
5. Can viruses slow down Windows 11?
Absolutely. Malware often runs background processes that drain resources.