Over 1.3 billion devices run Windows, but not all are equal. One of the biggest differences between devices is the performance quality of Windows software.
So, what can you do to stop your computer from running slow?
If you are experiencing poor performance with your device, the first step is to check you have the most up-to-date Windows software. Right now, that is Windows 11.
However, the bad news is even if you upgrade to Windows 11, slowness and lagging can still happen.
The good news is that there are ways to fix slowness and lagging in Windows 11.
Read on to learn the top ways to improve Windows 11 performance.
10 Ways To Fix Lagging And Slowness In Windows 11
1. Restart the Computer
A temporary fix for a sluggish computer can be to perform a restart. It quickly switches off programs that are running in the background, which can slow down PC performance.
A restart helps flush the RAM and clear up temporary files.
2. Run Performance Monitor
Another quick Windows 11 lag fix is to run the performance monitor. It can help provide insight into what is causing slow computer performance, so you take action. To run performance monitor:
- Search performance monitor and open the app
- Select ‘Data Collector Sets‘
- Select ‘System’ then ‘System Performance‘ and ‘Start’
After the application runs the performance test, you will be able to look at the results under ‘Reports’ and ‘System.’ Take time to see what is taking up system resources.
It may highlight what slows down your system, such as a specific program.
3. Switch Power Plan
Open settings and go to ‘System,’ then ‘Power & Battery.’ Here you can change the power mode of Windows 11, which can speed up your sluggish computer.
‘Best Performance‘ should improve PC performance, but device power will run out faster.
4. Stop Start-up Programs and Background Apps
It can be surprising how many programs are starting when you switch on your device. If there are many, then it slows down the start-up of Windows 11, slowing the entire system.
Only enable essential start-up programs.
You can disable start-up programs under task manager. Simply select the Start-up tab and choose the programs you want to disable.
Check the background applications that are running under “Apps & Features” on the “Settings” menu. Click ‘Never’ for Background apps permission.
You can also disable Re-startable apps under this setting to improve PC performance.
5. Change Privacy Permissions
Did you know that 67% of internet users in the US are not aware of the country’s privacy and protection rules?
Now software and devices are tightening privacy settings, but this can be why your computer is running slow in Windows 11.
Windows 11 focuses more on personalized ads, widgets, and local relevant advertisements.
However, customized ads can take up your system’s resources. You can go to the settings menu for Windows 11 to disable unnecessary settings.
Check under ‘Privacy & Security‘ and ‘General‘ to check your settings. You can disable settings such as ‘Show me suggested content in the Settings app.’
You can also disable Online Speech recognition and check app permissions, such as the camera if you do not have a built-in camera.
6. Check Game Mode
There were around 2.69 Billion video game players in 2020, and that number continues to increase. However, if you are struggling to play video games with a sluggish computer, check the Windows 11 game mode.
When playing video games, ensure the game mode is switched on for the best performance and disable it when not playing.
7. Free Up Disk Space
A common cause of a computer running slow is insufficient storage space. If your computer is running low on space, this could be why Windows 11 is slow or lagging.
One way you can clean up disk space is to delete temporary files that certain apps create. These files can take up a lot of space, so check for them regularly.
There are several ways to access temporary files, such as under the ‘Storage Settings.’ Windows 11 will scan for removable files, which you can then remove.
It is often best to select everything but Downloads.
You can also use the Windows Disk Clean up option to remove temporary files.
Storage Sense is a feature by Windows. You can use it to detect unwanted files quickly. Find this feature under Settings and Storage.
Select ‘Storage Sense‘ under ‘Storage Management‘.
You can also use third-party programs to keep on top of storage management. Consider deleting any applications and files you do not use to free up more space.
8. Disable Animations
The software visuals may look good, but disabling them can help fix slowness and lagging in Windows 11. You can disable any animations you do not need to improve PC performance.
Go to ‘Advanced System Settings’ and find the ‘Performance’ section. You can then customize your preferences for visuals and animations.
9. Review Notifications
Notifications can slow down your device and are one of the Windows 11 bugs. You can disable notifications in different ways, such as under System Settings.
Under ‘Notifications,’ you will find the option to switch all off.
10. Run a Malware Scan
It is always worth running a malware scan to check whether it is more than just Windows 11 bugs. Viruses and malware can slow your system down, so use the Windows Security application to launch a scan.
You can select ‘Full scan’ under ‘Virus & threat protection.’
If there are any viruses or malware, this scan should pick them up. Files and viruses will be highlighted, plus the software will take action to remove the files.
Fix Slowness and Lagging in Windows 11
No one wants a sluggish computer, especially when you update your software to the latest Windows 11.
However, the good news is that these steps can help fix slowness and lagging in Windows 11.
If you are still experiencing problems, consider contacting Windows directly.
It is also possible that you need to upgrade your computer or driver if it is old and is struggling to manage with the Windows update. You can also check individual application settings and ensure all software is updated.
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