Using Windows 11? Change these 4 settings to keep your PC running smoothly

Dell XPS 13
Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET

Windows 11 has been round for a number of years now, and when you have been an early adopter like I used to be, there is a good probability your pc has slowed down considerably since then. There are a number of the reason why a tool’s efficiency might plummet. 

It could possibly be the results of too many apps taking over sources, unoptimized settings, or perhaps a virus infecting the {hardware}. The simplest factor you are able to do within the quick time period is restart your pc. A easy reboot restores the RAM and re-establishes connections.

Additionally: The ultimate Windows 11 upgrade guide: Everything you need to know

However to take pleasure in improved efficiency over the long run, you will want to change how your pc operates. The recommendation I am about to provide you is all of the issues you are able to do proper now to boost your Home windows 11 expertise. And you will not want to enter a tool’s BIOS or obtain some random app from an unverified supply; these adjustments might be made proper from the system menus.

1. Obtain the most recent updates

Downloading new Windows 11 update
Microsoft/ZDNET

It is a no-brainer, but it surely bears mentioning that staying updated on Home windows 11 patches is essential. Patches typically introduce efficiency enhancements, bug fixes, safety patches, and new options that contribute to a smoother expertise. Usually, the OS mechanically installs patches as they arrive in from Microsoft, though you’ll be able to verify for updates manually.

Additionally: Get this awesome Windows 11 Pro Mini PC for $198 on Amazon

To do that, go to the Home windows Replace part in Home windows 11 Settings, then click on the Examine for Updates button within the right-hand nook. Any pending patches shall be put in. For drivers, keep on the identical web page, choose Superior Choices, after which go to Optionally available Updates. It is right here the place you will discover lacking drivers. As you’ll be able to see within the picture, I lacked a latest Bluetooth patch.

Conversely, the patches themselves might be buggy. In the event you expertise efficiency interruptions after putting in a patch, go to the underside of Replace HIstory inside the Home windows Replace part. Choose Uninstall Updates, the place you’ll be able to take away the glitchy software program

2. Disable apps on startup

Disabling apps in Task Manager
Microsoft/ZDNET

Some apps are so keen to start out they mechanically open if you flip in your pc. The issue is that having too many apps working within the background causes a major slowdown. To cease a program from launching on startup, you will first must open the Process Supervisor instrument and click on the Startup Apps icon — it is the one that appears like a automobile speedometer.

Additionally: The revolving door of Windows 11 24H2 bugs: 10 reasons to avoid this update for now

Right here, you will see all the apps that activate on startup. Proper-click on an entry and click on Disable. Don’t be concerned; this may not fully disable the software program or service. It simply prevents them from opening on startup. If you’d like the app to function the identical as earlier than, right-click it once more, then choose Allow.

I strongly recommend pausing OneDrive syncing. Microsoft even admits on its support page that this function can decelerate your PC. 

3. Deactivate unused options

Disabling Notifications on Windows 11
Microsoft/ZDNET

Home windows 11 has so many options that there is a good probability you are not utilizing all of them. Unused options limit the quantity of sources your pc can distribute to extra lively packages. 

It is as much as you what you wish to disable. Some customers would possibly discover sure options or instruments extra helpful than others. My examples are merely strategies, though I like to recommend turning the next off to immediately see a efficiency increase.

Additionally: If your Windows 10 PC can’t be upgraded, you have 5 options before time runs out

Turning off notifications is an effective begin. To do that, go to the System part within the Home windows 11 Settings menu and click on Notifications. Toggle the change on the next web page to disable them. Subsequent, go to Personalization, then to Colours. Disable Transparency Results, which removes the translucent visible impact on Home windows 11. Lastly, go to System Utilization inside the Personalization part and toggle the change discovered there. Doing so prevents advertisements, suggestions, and strategies coming from Microsoft.

4. Take away malware

Acer Swift 14 AI
Kerry Wan/ZDNET

Malware could cause all types of issues, not simply {hardware} slowdown, so I strongly recommend downloading an antivirus program to wash up your machine and shield it from future assaults. Home windows 11 already comes pre-installed with Home windows Safety, which is ok for many eventualities however shouldn’t be probably the most sturdy app. 

Additionally: The best antivirus software and apps you can buy

It is not the most effective at defending in opposition to phishing makes an attempt, neither is the software program probably the most intuitive (I nonetheless do not know methods to schedule a virus scan — and that is assuming it might probably even try this).

There are a lot of nice choices on the market, however the most effective one, in our opinion, is Bitdefender Whole Safety. Not solely can it detect and block malware, rootkits, and ransomware, however this system also can cease phishing assaults and invasive third-party knowledge monitoring. It even comes with a built-in VPN. You’ll need to pay for a yearly subscription to make the most of Bitdefender to its full potential. If you’d like a good free option, AVG Antivirus is your finest wager.

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