Windows 11 is sleek, modern, and packed with new features—but like any operating system, it isn’t perfect. Users often face problems ranging from slow performance, Wi-Fi issues, audio glitches, update failures, to app crashes.
The good news? Most of these problems can be solved without calling tech support. This guide covers practical, step-by-step fixes for the most common Windows 11 issues so you can get your PC running smoothly again.
Windows 11 is a polished upgrade from Windows 10, but that doesn’t mean it’s problem-free. If you’re frustrated with random glitches, don’t panic—you’re not alone. Let’s go through some practical solutions that anyone (even non-techies) can apply.
Why Windows 11 Faces Common Issues
Windows 11 is still relatively new. Compatibility issues with old apps, drivers that aren’t fully optimized, and updates that don’t install smoothly are common. Add in user-specific setups, and problems are bound to show up.
General Troubleshooting Tips
Before diving into specific fixes, here are quick steps that solve many issues:
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Restart your PC (simple but powerful).
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Install the latest Windows updates.
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Update device drivers.
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Run built-in troubleshooters.
Fixing Slow Performance in Windows 11
If your PC feels sluggish, try these:
Disable Startup Apps
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Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
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Go to Startup apps.
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Disable unnecessary programs.
Adjust Visual Effects
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Press Win + R, type
sysdm.cpl, and hit Enter. -
Under Performance Options, select Adjust for best performance.
Free Up Disk Space
Use Storage Sense under Settings → System → Storage to automatically clean junk files.
Fixing Windows 11 Wi-Fi Problems
Restart Network Adapter
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Press Win + X → Device Manager.
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Expand Network adapters.
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Right-click your adapter → Disable → then Enable.
Reset TCP/IP Settings
Run this command in Command Prompt (Admin):
Update Network Drivers
Use Device Manager → Update driver → Search automatically.
Fixing Audio Not Working in Windows 11
Check Sound Settings
Make sure the correct output device is selected.
Restart Audio Services
Run services.msc, restart Windows Audio.
Reinstall Audio Drivers
Uninstall drivers in Device Manager → Restart PC → Windows reinstalls them.
Fixing Bluetooth Connection Issues
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Remove paired devices and re-pair.
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Update Bluetooth drivers via Device Manager.
Fixing Windows 11 Update Problems
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Settings → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update.
Clear Update Cache
Stop update service, delete files in C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download, restart service.
Install Updates Manually
Download updates from Microsoft’s catalog website.
Fixing Screen Flickering or Black Screen
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Update graphics drivers.
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Disable hardware acceleration in apps like Chrome.
Fixing App Crashes or Freezing
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Run apps in compatibility mode (right-click → Properties → Compatibility).
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Reset apps: Settings → Apps → Installed apps → Advanced options → Reset.
Fixing Microsoft Store Problems
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Reset Store:
wsreset.exe. -
Re-register via PowerShell:
Fixing Windows 11 Start Menu Not Working
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Restart Explorer: Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Task Manager → Windows Explorer → Restart.
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Rebuild database using PowerShell command.
Fixing File Explorer Lag
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Clear File Explorer history: Options → Clear history.
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Restart explorer.exe in Task Manager.
Fixing Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)
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Update drivers.
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Run Memory Diagnostics (
mdsched.exe).
Fixing Battery Drain on Laptops
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Enable Battery Saver.
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Turn off unnecessary background apps.
Fixing Windows 11 Freezing or Crashing
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Run SFC scan:
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Run DISM scan:
Fixing Windows Activation Issues
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Run Activation Troubleshooter in Settings → Activation.
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If it fails, contact Microsoft support.
Tips to Keep Windows 11 Running Smoothly
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Keep system updated.
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Use antivirus software.
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Avoid unnecessary startup apps.
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Regularly clean temp files.
Final Thoughts
Windows 11 is powerful but not flawless. Thankfully, most issues—whether it’s Wi-Fi drops, audio glitches, or slowdowns—can be fixed with simple steps. Follow this guide whenever you face a problem, and you’ll save time (and money) instead of rushing to tech support.
FAQs
Q1. Why does my Windows 11 keep freezing?
It may be due to outdated drivers, corrupted files, or overheating. Running SFC/DISM scans often helps.
Q2. How do I fix Windows 11 updates not installing?
Use the update troubleshooter, clear update cache, or install updates manually.
Q3. My laptop battery drains too fast on Windows 11. What should I do?
Enable battery saver, dim the screen, and close unused apps.
Q4. Can I fix audio issues without reinstalling drivers?
Yes—try restarting Windows Audio services first.
Q5. Does resetting Windows 11 fix all problems?
Yes, a reset gives you a clean start, but it should be the last option after trying other fixes.