Is your Windows PC running slower than usual? Whether apps take forever to open or your system feels sluggish while multitasking, a slow PC can be frustrating. The good news: you don’t always need new hardware to boost performance.
Here are seven actionable ways to make your Windows PC faster—works on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
1. Uninstall Unnecessary Programs and Bloatware
Why it matters: Pre-installed software and unused programs take up storage and system resources, slowing your PC.
What to do:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & Features and remove programs you don’t need.
- Use tools like CCleaner to delete leftover files and registry clutter.
Bonus: During new software installations, choose custom install to avoid extra programs and toolbars.
2. Disable Startup Programs
Why it matters: Many apps launch automatically at startup, slowing boot time and system performance.
What to do:
- Right-click the taskbar → Task Manager → Startup tab.
- Disable unnecessary programs like chat apps or cloud services.
Bonus: Avoid turning off essential system processes to prevent issues.
3. Clean Up Your Hard Drive
Why it matters: Junk files, temporary files, and system logs can accumulate over time and slow your PC.
What to do:
- Use Disk Cleanup: Type “Disk Cleanup” in Start → select drive → check unwanted files → click OK.
- Enable Storage Sense: Settings → System → Storage → turn on Storage Sense to automatically remove unnecessary files.
Bonus: Move large files (videos/photos) to an external drive or cloud storage.
4. Update Windows and Drivers
Why it matters: Outdated software and drivers can cause slowdowns and instability.
What to do:
- Update Windows: Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → check for updates.
- Update drivers: Start → Device Manager → right-click devices → Update driver.
Bonus: Use tools like Driver Booster to quickly update all drivers automatically.
5. Optimize Power Settings
Why it matters: Power-saving modes can throttle performance to conserve energy.
What to do:
- Control Panel → Power Options → choose High Performance.
- Adjust advanced settings: Change max processor state, hard disk sleep time, etc.
Bonus: On laptops, switch to High Performance when plugged in for faster speeds.
6. Defragment Your Hard Drive (HDD Only)
Why it matters: HDDs can get fragmented, making your PC work harder. SSDs do not need defragmentation.
What to do:
- Search Defragment and Optimize Drives → select HDD → click Optimize.
- Schedule regular defragmentation for ongoing performance.
Bonus: For SSDs, ensure the tool runs Trim to maintain performance.
7. Check for Malware and Adware
Why it matters: Malicious programs use system resources, slowing your PC.
What to do:
- Run Windows Defender: Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security → Virus & Threat Protection.
- Use Malwarebytes to detect stubborn malware or adware.
Bonus: Set up regular scans and avoid untrusted software sources.
⚡ Bonus Tip: Upgrade to an SSD
Why it matters: SSDs are much faster than traditional HDDs, drastically improving boot and load times.
What to do:
- Replace your HDD with an SSD if possible.
- Install Windows on the SSD for maximum performance.
Bonus: Enable TRIM for SSDs using the Optimize Drives tool.
✅ Conclusion
Speeding up your Windows PC doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By uninstalling unnecessary programs, disabling startup apps, cleaning your hard drive, updating software, checking for malware, and optimizing settings, you can make your PC run faster and smoother.
Start applying these tips today and enjoy a noticeable boost in performance!
