Windows 11, having established itself over the past few years, has become a staple for many users. However, for those who embraced it early on, a noticeable decline in performance may have set in. Various factors contribute to this slowdown, including resource-heavy applications, unoptimized settings, or even potential malware intrusions. A simple yet effective first step is to restart your computer, which can refresh the RAM and re-establish system connections.
For a more lasting improvement in performance, users can make several adjustments directly from the system menus, avoiding the complexities of BIOS configurations or unverified software downloads.
1. Download the latest updates
Staying current with Windows 11 updates is essential. These patches not only enhance performance but also address bugs and security vulnerabilities. While the operating system typically installs updates automatically, users can manually check for any pending updates by navigating to the Windows Update section in the Settings menu. Here, clicking on the ‘Check for Updates’ button will initiate the process.
For additional drivers, select ‘Advanced Options’ within the same section and then proceed to ‘Optional Updates’ to find any missing drivers. In some cases, updates may introduce new issues. If performance declines post-update, users can revert to previous versions by selecting ‘Uninstall Updates’ at the bottom of the Update History page.
2. Disable apps on startup
Many applications are programmed to launch automatically upon startup, which can significantly hinder performance. To manage these, open the Task Manager and click on the Startup Apps icon. Here, users can right-click on any application and select ‘Disable’ to prevent it from launching at startup. This action does not uninstall the application; it merely delays its activation until needed.
Additionally, consider pausing OneDrive syncing, as Microsoft acknowledges that this feature can slow down system performance.
3. Deactivate unused features
Windows 11 is packed with features, many of which may go unused. These inactive features can consume valuable resources that could be better allocated to active applications. Users are encouraged to evaluate which features they truly need. For instance, disabling notifications can be a simple yet effective way to free up resources. This can be done by navigating to the System section in Settings and toggling off notifications.
Further optimizations include disabling Transparency Effects under Personalization > Colors, and turning off ads, tips, and suggestions found in Device Usage within the Personalization section.
4. Remove malware
Malware poses a significant threat to system performance and security. It is advisable to install a reliable antivirus program to safeguard against future attacks. While Windows 11 comes with Windows Security, which is adequate for basic protection, it may not offer the most comprehensive defense against phishing attempts or other advanced threats.
For robust protection, Bitdefender Total Security is highly recommended, as it effectively detects and blocks various forms of malware while also providing features like a built-in VPN. For those seeking a free alternative, AVG Antivirus offers solid protection without the associated costs.
