How to Speed Up Windows 11 in 2026: 10 Easy Ways to Make Your PC Faster

If your computer running Windows 11 has started feeling slow, you’re not alone. Over time, background processes, startup apps, and temporary files can reduce your system’s performance.

The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to buy a new PC. By adjusting a few settings and removing unnecessary programs, you can noticeably improve your computer’s speed and responsiveness.

Below are some simple and effective ways to make Windows 11 faster in 2026.

1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps

Many applications automatically launch when your computer starts. Too many startup programs can significantly slow down boot time.

How to disable them:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
2. Select the Startup tab
3. Disable apps you don’t need when the system starts

Reducing startup apps helps your PC boot faster and use fewer resources.

2. Uninstall Programs You Don’t Use

Unused software can take up storage space and run background services that slow down your system.

Steps to remove apps:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Apps → Installed Apps
3. Find programs you no longer need and uninstall them

Cleaning up unused programs helps free space and improves system performance.

3. Reduce Visual Effects

Animations, transparency effects, and other visual elements in Windows look attractive but can consume system resources.

To turn them off:

1. Search for Performance in the Windows search bar
2. Click Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows
3. Select Adjust for best performance

This change disables extra visual effects and makes the system feel faster.

4. Clear Temporary Files and Free Storage

Low storage space can impact your computer’s speed. Removing temporary files can help free up valuable disk space.

Use Storage Sense:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to System → Storage
3. Turn on Storage Sense

This feature automatically deletes temporary files and unnecessary data.

5. Keep Windows Updated

Regular updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes.

To check updates:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Windows Update
3. Install any available updates

Updates from Microsoft can improve stability and overall performance.

ALSO READ Windows 11 January 2026 Update Breaks Outlook, Microsoft Releases Urgent Fix

6. Restart Your Computer Occasionally

Leaving your computer running for days without restarting can lead to slower performance because background processes continue to accumulate.

Restarting your system clears memory usage and refreshes running processes.

7. Limit Background Apps

Some applications continue running in the background even when you’re not actively using them.

To restrict them:

1. Go to Settings → Apps
2. Select the app you want to manage
3. Change the background app permissions

This reduces unnecessary CPU and RAM usage.

8. Upgrade to an SSD

If your computer still uses a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), switching to a Solid State Drive (SSD) can dramatically improve performance.

Benefits of SSD:

• Faster startup time
• Quicker file access
• Smoother overall system performance

Many users notice several times faster performance after upgrading.

9. Add More RAM

If you frequently run multiple applications or browser tabs, increasing your RAM can make a big difference.

Recommended memory for smooth performance:

• 8 GB RAM for basic tasks
• 16 GB RAM for better multitasking and productivity

More memory allows your PC to handle demanding tasks more efficiently.

10. Run a Malware Scan

Malicious software can slow down your computer by consuming system resources.

You can scan your system using Microsoft Defender, which is built into Windows 11.

Running a full scan can help detect and remove harmful software.

Final Thoughts

Improving the speed of Windows 11 doesn’t require advanced technical skills. By disabling unnecessary startup apps, freeing storage space, and upgrading hardware like RAM or SSD, you can significantly enhance your PC’s performance.

Try these simple tips, and your computer should feel much faster and smoother to use in 2026.