Windows 11, having established its presence over the past few years, has become a staple for many users. However, early adopters may find their devices experiencing a noticeable decline in performance. This can be attributed to various factors such as resource-heavy applications, unoptimized settings, or even the lurking threat of malware. For those seeking immediate relief, a simple reboot can work wonders by refreshing the RAM and re-establishing system connections.
For a more sustainable enhancement to your Windows 11 experience, consider implementing the following strategies directly from the system menus, avoiding the need for complex BIOS adjustments or unverified software downloads.
1. Download the latest updates
Staying current with Windows 11 patches is essential. These updates often bring performance improvements, bug fixes, and security enhancements that collectively contribute to a smoother user experience. Typically, the operating system handles updates automatically, but manual checks can ensure nothing is overlooked. Navigate to the Windows Update section in Settings and click on the ‘Check for Updates’ button. Any pending patches will be installed promptly. For driver updates, select ‘Advanced Options’ and then ‘Optional Updates’ to find any missing drivers.
However, it’s worth noting that sometimes updates can introduce their own set of issues. If you encounter performance problems post-update, you can revert to a previous version by selecting ‘Uninstall Updates’ at the bottom of the Update History section.
2. Disable apps on startup
Many applications are eager to launch at startup, which can significantly bog down system performance. To manage these, open the Task Manager and select the Startup Apps icon. Here, you can view all applications that run upon booting your computer. Right-click on any app and choose ‘Disable’ to prevent it from launching at startup, without fully disabling the software. If you wish to revert this action later, simply right-click again and select ‘Enable.’ Additionally, consider pausing OneDrive syncing, as Microsoft acknowledges that this feature can slow down performance.
3. Deactivate unused features
Windows 11 is packed with features, many of which may go unused, consuming valuable resources that could be better allocated to active applications. While the decision on what to disable is personal, some recommendations include turning off notifications by navigating to the System section in Settings and toggling the Notifications switch. Disabling Transparency Effects under Colors in the Personalization menu can also yield a performance boost. Lastly, within Device Usage, toggling off ads, tips, and suggestions from Microsoft can further streamline your experience.
4. Remove malware
Malware poses a significant risk, not only causing slowdowns but also compromising system security. It is advisable to install a robust antivirus program to cleanse your device and safeguard it against future threats. While Windows Security comes pre-installed and is adequate for basic protection, it may not offer the most comprehensive defense against phishing or intuitive user experience. For a more thorough solution, consider Bitdefender Total Security, known for its ability to detect and block a range of threats, including malware and ransomware, while also providing a built-in VPN. For those seeking a free alternative, AVG Antivirus is a solid choice.
