You can improve a slow Windows PC without turning off antivirus protection. Start by checking for updates and malware, then find out whether storage, startup apps, or a particular process is using too many resources. Make one change at a time and review files before deleting them; a slow computer can have several causes, and disabling security is not a safe shortcut.
Why a Windows PC may be slow
Low storage, too many apps launching or running in the background, outdated software, malware, and aging hardware can all contribute to poor performance. The cause is not necessarily antivirus: Microsoft notes that malware itself can consume CPU and disk resources. Use Windows’ built-in checks to identify a likely cause before changing settings.
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Try these fixes in order
1. Install updates and restart
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates, install available updates, and review optional driver updates when appropriate.
- Restart the PC if Windows asks, then see whether performance improves.
Updates can include fixes and performance improvements. The exact labels may vary slightly across Windows versions.
2. Run a malware scan without switching off protection
- In Windows 11, open Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Choose Quick scan and follow any recommendations Windows presents.
A scan can help detect and remove threats that use system resources. Keep antivirus and other security services enabled. Potentially unwanted apps can also affect performance; Windows Security’s reputation-based protection is designed to help block them.
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3. Find out what is using resources
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Use the Processes and Performance tabs to inspect current CPU, memory, and disk activity.
- Close apps you recognize and are not using. If a process repeatedly uses a lot of resources, investigate what it belongs to before acting on it.
Do not end unfamiliar system or security processes just because their names are unclear. Close unused browser tabs and applications, restart, and note whether the slowdown returns.
4. Disable only unnecessary startup apps
- Open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Select Startup apps.
- Disable only programs you recognize and do not need to launch automatically.
Startup apps can affect boot time and ongoing performance. Keep antivirus and essential device software enabled; if you are unsure what an entry does, leave it on until you can identify it.
5. Review storage and clean selectively
- Open Settings > System > Storage and inspect which categories use space.
- Review Cleanup recommendations or Storage Sense options. These may include temporary files, Recycle Bin contents, large or unused files, cloud-synced files, and unused apps.
- Select only items you understand and intend to remove. Check individual choices before confirming deletion.
Storage cleanup can free drive space, but it is not a reason to delete everything Windows identifies. Microsoft warns that deleting the previous Windows version removes Windows.old and makes it impossible to roll back to that version. If you need more room for personal files or a particular update, external storage may help move files or complete certain update workflows; it is not a general speed booster.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors6. Uninstall apps you no longer use
Remove only applications you recognize and no longer need. Uninstalling unused apps can reduce clutter and, for apps that run in the background or at startup, may reduce avoidable load. Avoid removing drivers, security software, or unfamiliar components to experiment.
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Optional settings and their trade-offs
Reduce visual effects
Windows lets you reduce visual effects to prioritize responsiveness. The setting can make the interface less decorative; it will not solve every cause of slowness, such as a full drive or a hardware limitation.
Use a performance-focused power mode only when it suits you
Windows’ Best performance power mode may be useful when a laptop is plugged in and responsiveness matters more than power use. Microsoft warns that it can use more power, make a laptop warmer, and drain its battery faster. Choose a more balanced mode when battery life or heat matters.
Let Windows optimize drives
Windows includes Optimize Drives. Use the built-in tool rather than assuming every drive should be manually defragmented; the appropriate optimization depends on the drive and Windows’ handling of it.
Check Windows’ health report
Windows Security’s Device performance & health report checks areas including storage capacity, battery life, apps and software, and the Windows Time service. If it detects an issue, it can offer recommendations. Use those findings alongside Task Manager and Storage settings to decide what to address next.
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- CONNECTIVITY & PORTS: Includes 1× TF card slot, 2× USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and 2× full-featured Type-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen1). The Type-C ports support data transfer, charging, and video output, enabling flexible connection with external devices such as monitors, storage, and peripherals for daily work and study use.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN | ONLINE COMMUNICATION: Designed with a slim, portable profile, this laptop is easy to carry for school, commuting, and travel. A built-in 1MP front camera supports online classes, video meetings, remote communication, and everyday conferencing. The 3300mAh battery works with the low-power system design to support practical daily use, while thermal optimization helps maintain quieter operation during extended tasks.
When software fixes are not enough
If the PC remains slow after reasonable cleanup and diagnosis, its hardware may be the limiting factor. Microsoft cautions that older PCs with outdated hardware may not improve significantly from software steps and says upgrading the device may be the best long-term option.
Do not buy a drive based on a generic recommendation alone. First identify the actual bottleneck and confirm that any replacement or added storage matches the computer’s supported interface and physical form factor. Microsoft does not specify a particular SSD or quantify a speed improvement for one.
Windows 10: performance is separate from security support
Microsoft says free Windows 10 software updates through Windows Update, technical assistance, and security fixes ended on October 14, 2025. A PC running Windows 10 continues to work, but performance tuning does not restore security updates. Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11; check Microsoft’s current guidance for supported update choices for your device.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Quick Recap
Microsoft guidance
- Tips to improve PC performance in Windows
- Free up drive space in Windows
- Manage startup apps in Windows
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