To make Windows feel faster, reduce unnecessary startup apps, keep enough working storage available and limit competing tasks. Use built-in settings first and measure the same everyday task after each change.
Do not disable security protection, delete Windows folders or use registry cleaners for a promised speed boost. Keep a backup before uninstalling software or changing storage settings.
Set a fair baseline
Choose a task you perform often, such as opening your browser and one document. Restart, wait for startup activity to settle, and note how it behaves. Keep the same files and connection for your comparison.
If performance recently became dramatically worse, use our slow-computer diagnosis guide first. Settings adjustments are useful for ordinary clutter; they should not conceal a failing drive or repeated crashes.
Trim startup apps carefully
Apps that start with Windows can compete with the work you actually want to do. Disabling startup does not uninstall a program; you can still open it when needed.
- Open Settings, then Apps, then Startup. Review each entry by publisher and purpose.
- Turn off optional launchers, chat clients or utilities you do not need immediately after signing in.
- Keep security software, accessibility tools and anything your employer requires enabled. If you cannot identify an item, research its publisher before changing it.
- Restart and repeat your baseline task. Restore a setting if an essential feature no longer works as expected.
Reduce the work you ask the PC to do
Close unused browser tabs and apps before opening a large spreadsheet, video editor or meeting. A browser with many active pages can keep doing work even when the windows are minimized.
Review browser extensions and remove ones you no longer use. Install extensions only from the browser’s official store and pay attention to permissions. Do not replace ordinary tab management with an unknown “RAM booster.”
Schedule large backups, game downloads and cloud uploads outside your busiest work period where the app permits it. Keep the backup running regularly; the goal is to avoid competition, not give up protection.
Make storage and power choices deliberately
Open Settings > System > Storage and review the categories. Use the storage guide to remove material you recognize. Leave system-managed files alone unless Windows itself offers a clearly explained cleanup option.
On a laptop, compare performance while connected to its appropriate charger. In Windows 11, Settings > System > Power & battery may offer a power mode choice. Availability depends on the device. A higher performance setting can increase heat, fan noise and battery use; return to Balanced when it suits your work.
Windows visual effects can also be adjusted by searching Start for “Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows.” Consider turning off individual animations rather than removing every effect. Preserve settings that make text and controls easier for you to see.
Keep maintenance useful and reversible
Install normal Windows and application updates from their built-in update controls. Restart when requested at a convenient time. Use the computer maker’s official support page for a specific missing or problematic driver.
Uninstall apps you recognize and no longer need through Settings > Apps > Installed apps. Check license information and saved data first. Do not remove hardware utilities just because their names are unfamiliar.
After the changes, repeat your original task with the same workload. If the difference is small, more tweaking may not be worthwhile. Check actual CPU, memory and storage pressure before deciding whether hardware is limiting you.
Record what you disabled. If you later need a synchronization or accessory feature, you can reverse the precise change instead of resetting the whole computer.
Sources and further help
Official documentation used to check the guidance. Menu names and options can vary by device and software version.