How to Make Windows 11 Faster | Faster Windows 11 (2025 Guide)

Windows 11 is a powerful operating system, but over time, it can start to slow down, especially on older PCs or systems with limited resources. Slow startups, lagging apps, and stuttering performance can be frustrating.

This guide will show you proven methods to make Windows 11 faster, improve system responsiveness, and optimize performance for both everyday tasks and heavy workloads.

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Common Causes of Slow Windows 11 Performance

1. Too many startup programs slowing down boot time.
2. Background processes and services consuming CPU and RAM.
3. Outdated drivers or Windows updates.
4. Fragmented or full storage.
5. Malware or bloatware.
6. Visual effects and animations consuming system resources.

By understanding these causes, you can apply targeted fixes to restore speed.

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Fix 1: Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Many programs automatically start with Windows, slowing boot time.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Right-click unnecessary programs → Disable.
4. Restart your PC.

✅ This reduces boot time and frees system resources for important apps.

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Fix 2: Turn Off Background Apps

Background apps can consume CPU and RAM.

1. Press Windows + I → Apps → Apps & features.
2. Click Advanced options for apps you don’t need running.
3. Disable Background apps permissions.

✅ Fewer background apps mean faster system performance.

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Fix 3: Adjust Visual Effects for Performance

Animations and visual effects look nice but can slow down older PCs.

1. Press Windows + R → type sysdm.cpl → Enter.
2. Go to Advanced → Performance Settings → Adjust for best performance.
3. Click Apply, then OK.

✅ Windows will prioritize speed over fancy animations.

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Fix 4: Keep Windows 11 and Drivers Updated

Outdated software can cause lag.

1. Press Windows + I → Windows Update → Check for updates.
2. Update all pending drivers via Device Manager.

✅ Updated drivers improve compatibility and speed.

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Fix 5: Clean Up Disk and Storage

Full or fragmented storage slows down performance.

1. Press Windows + S, type Disk Cleanup → open the tool.
2. Select your system drive → check Temporary files, Recycle Bin, System files → OK.
3. Consider moving large files to an external drive or cloud storage.

✅ Free space improves speed and responsiveness.

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Fix 6: Scan for Malware and Bloatware

Malware or unnecessary software can consume resources.

1. Run Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Quick scan.
2. Use trusted third-party tools like Malwarebytes for deeper scans.
3. Uninstall bloatware or apps you don’t need via Settings → Apps → Apps & features.

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Fix 7: Enable Storage Sense or SSD Optimization

Windows 11 can optimize storage automatically.

1. Press Windows + I → System → Storage → Storage Sense.
2. Enable Automatic cleanup to remove temporary files regularly.
3. If using an SSD, ensure TRIM is enabled to maintain speed.

✅ Optimized storage reduces file access times and improves overall speed.

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Fix 8: Increase Virtual Memory (Page File)

If your system runs out of RAM, Windows uses virtual memory. Increasing it can improve performance.

1. Press Windows + R → type sysdm.cpl → Enter.
2. Go to Advanced → Performance Settings → Advanced → Virtual Memory → Change.
3. Set Custom size: Initial and Maximum size to 1.5x–2x your RAM.
4. Click Set → OK, then restart.

✅ More virtual memory helps heavy programs run smoothly.

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Fix 9: Disable Unnecessary Services

Some Windows services run in the background but aren’t always needed.

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc → Enter.
2. Identify services like Print Spooler (if no printer), Windows Search (optional), etc.
3. Right-click → Properties → Startup type: Manual or Disabled.

✅ Reduces CPU and RAM usage, speeding up your system.

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Fix 10: Consider Hardware Upgrades

If software optimization isn’t enough, upgrading hardware is effective:

• Upgrade to SSD: Much faster than HDD for boot and app loading.
• Add more RAM: Helps with multitasking and heavy apps.
• Upgrade GPU (for gaming or graphics-heavy tasks).

✅ Hardware upgrades provide the most noticeable speed improvements.

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Additional Tips

• Avoid running too many browser tabs or heavy apps simultaneously.
• Regularly restart your PC to clear memory.
• Keep your PC cool — overheating can throttle performance.
• Use lightweight antivirus programs to avoid system slowdowns.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Will disabling visual effects affect my experience?
A1: Yes, animations and transparency effects will be removed, but performance will improve significantly.

Q2: How often should I clean up my disk?
A2: Monthly cleanup is recommended to maintain optimal performance.

Q3: Does Windows 11 perform better on SSDs?
A3: Absolutely. SSDs significantly reduce boot times and app loading speeds.

Q4: Can malware really slow down Windows 11?
A4: Yes, malicious programs can consume CPU, RAM, and network resources, causing noticeable lag.

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Conclusion

Making Windows 11 faster involves a combination of software optimization and hardware improvements. Start by disabling unnecessary startup programs, adjusting visual effects, and cleaning up storage. Keep drivers and Windows updated, and scan for malware regularly.

For older PCs or power users, consider upgrading RAM or switching to an SSD for maximum performance. By following these steps, you can enjoy a smooth, fast, and responsive Windows 11 experience.