How to Fix a Slow Computer in Windows 11

Patrick_Yu

Is your computer moving slower than usual? If you’re tired of waiting for programs to load or worried about your computer freezing up, don’t rush out to buy a new one just yet. There are a few easy fixes that might help speed things up. From turning off extra programs that start up automatically to doing a quick cleanup of old files, you can make a big difference with some simple steps. 

Why do computers slow down? 

Before we dive into specific fixes, it’s useful to understand what causes computers to slow down over time. Often, it comes down to how the main components handle increasing demands as we install more programs, store more files, and run newer updates. Here’s a look at some of the key components that impact your computer’s speed: 

1. CPU (Central Processing Unit): The CPU is often called the "brain" of the computer because it handles all instructions and calculations. If the CPU is outdated or overworked (like when many programs run at once), it can slow everything down. CPUs with more cores and higher speeds can handle more tasks at once, which helps keep the computer responsive. 
2. RAM (Random Access Memory): RAM is like the computer’s short-term memory. It temporarily stores data that the CPU needs right away. If your computer doesn't have enough RAM, it struggles to handle many tasks at once, leading to slowdowns. Upgrading or adding more RAM often improves performance, especially when running multiple programs. 
3. Hard Drive or SSD (Storage Drive): This is where all files, programs, and the operating system are stored. Traditional hard drives (HDDs) can slow down as they fill up or age, and their mechanical parts can wear out over time. Solid-state drives (SSDs), which have no moving parts, are faster and more reliable. Switching to an SSD or keeping storage space free on your drive can boost speed. 
4. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): If you use your computer for gaming, video editing, or other graphics-heavy tasks, a powerful GPU is essential. A weak or outdated GPU can struggle to render visuals smoothly, causing lag and slow performance during graphic-intensive tasks. 
5. Cooling System: Computers generate heat as they run, and if they get too hot, performance can suffer. Dust build-up or a malfunctioning fan can prevent proper cooling, causing the computer to slow down to avoid overheating. Regularly cleaning the computer’s vents and fans can help prevent this issue. 
6. Software and Background Processes: Running too many background programs or having outdated software can also contribute to slowdowns. Even the latest and fastest hardware won’t perform well if the software isn’t optimized. 

How to fix a slow Windows 11 computer 

1. Restart your computer to improve performance 

One of the simplest ways to boost computer performance is to restart it. Restarting clears temporary data stored in RAM and refreshes the system, which can resolve minor issues that slow down your computer. 

How to restart your computer: 

• Click the Start menu, select the power icon, and choose Restart. This will close all open applications and give your computer a fresh start. 

2. Speed up your computer by disabling startup programs

Many programs automatically start when your computer boots up, which can slow down startup times and consume memory. Disabling these unnecessary programs frees up resources and helps your computer run faster. 

How to disable startup programs: 

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager. 
2. Click on the Startup apps tab to see a list of programs that start with Windows. 
3. Right-click any program you don’t need at startup and select Disable. 
4. Restart your computer to apply the changes. 

3. Free up space by uninstalling unnecessary apps

Unused applications can take up valuable storage space and may run background processes that slow down your computer. Removing these apps not only frees up space but can also improve overall system performance. 

How to uninstall apps on Windows: 

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I and go to Apps > Installed apps. 
2. Scroll through the list of installed programs. 
3. Select any app you no longer need and click Uninstall. Follow any prompts to complete the removal. 

4. Optimize Windows performance by adjusting visual effects

Visual effects like animations and transparency can look nice but often consume valuable system resources. Adjusting or disabling these effects can help your computer run more smoothly, especially if it’s an older or low-spec machine. 

How to adjust Windows visual effects: 

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I and go to Apps > Accessibility > Visual effects 
2. In the Visual effects page, toggle off Transparency effects and Animations effects to turn off all effects or customize by selecting only the essential effects. 

5. Clean up disk space to improve performance 

Disk cleanup removes temporary files, system cache, and other unnecessary items that can take up valuable storage. This process not only frees up space but also helps your computer access files more efficiently, reducing slowdowns. 

How to do a disk cleanup: 

1. Open the Start menu, type “Disk Cleanup”, and select the app. 
2. Choose the drive you want to clean (usually the C: drive) and click OK. 
3. Check the boxes next to the types of files you want to delete (e.g., Temporary files, Recycle Bin). 
4. Click OK, then Delete Files to remove them. 

6. Update drivers to enhance hardware performance

Drivers are essential for the proper functioning of hardware components. Outdated drivers can lead to compatibility issues, errors, or decreased performance. Regularly updating drivers, especially for critical components like your graphics card and network card, keeps your computer running smoothly. 

How to update drivers on Windows: 

1. Open the Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Device Manager. 
2. Find the device you want to update (e.g., Display adapters for your graphics card). 
3. Right-click the device and choose Update driver. 
4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will check for updates and install any available. 
5. Repeat for other devices as needed. 

7. Disable background apps to free up resources

Certain apps run in the background even when you’re not actively using them, consuming CPU and memory resources. Disabling these background apps can help free up system resources and improve speed. 

How to disable background apps: 

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps. 
2. Scroll to the app you want to adjust, select More options (three dots), and choose Advanced options. 
3. In the Background apps permissions section, under Let this app run in the background, select one of the following options: 

• Always — The app runs in the background, staying up-to-date and receiving notifications. 
• Power optimized — Windows manages the app’s background activity to save power while allowing occasional updates and notifications. 
• Never — Prevents the app from running in the background, maximizing system efficiency and saving power.

8. Run a malware and virus scan to protect your computer

Malware and viruses can cause severe slowdowns by using up resources, corrupting files, and interfering with system performance. Running a full virus scan helps detect and remove any malicious software, improving overall performance and security. 

How to run a malware and virus scan: 

1. Open Windows Security by searching for it in the Start menu. 
2. Go to Virus & threat protection and select Quick scan to check for basic threats. For a more thorough scan, select Scan options and choose Full scan. 
3. Click Scan now and wait for the process to complete. If threats are detected, follow the prompts to remove them.

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