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A slow Windows 11 PC can be caused by low storage, too many startup or background apps, outdated software, malware, or aging hardware. Start with the built-in checks below, change one thing at a time, and see whether the symptoms improve; no single setting is guaranteed to make every computer faster.
1. Install Windows updates and check optional drivers
Updates can include performance fixes. Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update and select Check for updates. Install available updates and restart if Windows asks you to.
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To look for driver updates, open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates. Review the list and install only updates that are appropriate for your device; an optional driver is not automatically necessary or a guaranteed speed improvement. See Microsoft’s PC performance guidance.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2. Check for malware and unwanted software
Malware can use processor and disk resources, so a scan is one useful diagnostic if the computer has become unusually slow. Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection and choose Quick scan. A slow PC alone does not mean it is infected.
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For prevention, Microsoft recommends getting apps from trusted sources, keeping security products updated, and removing software you no longer need. Its guidance is available in Protect your PC from unwanted software.
3. Check storage and remove files selectively
Low disk space can affect performance and may also prevent Windows updates from installing. In Windows 11, open Settings > System > Storage. From there, review Storage Sense and Cleanup recommendations. Cleanup recommendations may identify temporary files, previous Windows installations, large or unused files, and rarely used apps.
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Inspect each category before deleting anything. In particular, make sure you do not need a file or previous installation before removing it. You can also use Disk Cleanup or manually review temporary files. Microsoft explains the available options in Storage settings in Windows and Free up space for Windows updates. Using external storage can help make room for an update in some cases; it is not a general performance upgrade.
4. Reduce unnecessary startup and background activity
Apps that launch when you sign in can slow startup and continue using system resources. To review them, open Settings > Apps > Startup, or open Task Manager and select Startup apps. Task Manager also shows each app’s startup impact.
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Disable only apps you recognize and do not need to launch automatically. Do not turn off unfamiliar system or security software just to shorten startup. If an app is needed, you can still open it manually. You can also uninstall apps you no longer use and manage background permissions where Windows offers that option. See Microsoft’s startup-app instructions.
5. Adjust settings only when their tradeoffs suit you
Choose whether to reduce visual effects
Visual effects use system resources. Microsoft documents an Adjust for best performance option in the Visual Effects tab. It can reduce visual embellishments, so use it only if the simpler appearance is acceptable to you. The route to that tab can vary by Windows version and configuration; Microsoft’s performance guide describes the option.
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Use Best performance power mode selectively
On a compatible device, open Settings > System > Power & battery and choose Best performance under power mode if available. Microsoft warns that this mode increases power consumption; on a laptop, expect faster battery drain and potentially more heat. It is most relevant when plugged in and when the tradeoff is acceptable.
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Check what is using resources
Open Task Manager to review CPU, memory, and disk use. Close apps or browser tabs you are not using, then observe whether the slowdown improves. If performance remains poor, restart the PC and check again. Windows also includes Defragment and Optimize Drives for drive optimization; avoid assuming any one maintenance action will produce a measurable speed gain.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which check should you try first?
| Check | What it addresses | Effort and tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Windows updates | Available Windows fixes and updates | Review and install updates; a restart may be required. |
| Malware scan | Possible unwanted software using CPU or disk resources | Run a built-in Quick scan; a slowdown does not itself prove infection. |
| Storage review | Low disk space and removable files | Review proposed cleanup items before deleting; removing needed files is avoidable. |
| Startup-app review | Slow sign-in and unnecessary app activity | Disable only recognized apps that do not need to start automatically. |
| Power and visual settings | Performance preferences and resource use | Visual effects may change; Best performance uses more power and can increase laptop heat. |
When settings changes are not enough
If the PC is older or has outdated hardware, settings changes may make little difference. Microsoft notes that “Older PCs with outdated hardware may not see significant improvements from these steps.” A hardware upgrade can be a longer-term option, but the right component depends on the exact computer and cannot be determined from Windows 11 alone. Check the device model and compatibility before considering an upgrade.
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