[2025 Guide] Windows PC Booting Too Slow? 7 Ways to Fix It for Beginners

Illustration of a frustrated user waiting for a slow Windows PC to boot up, with a progress bar on the screen

Have you ever sat down with your morning coffee, ready to start work, only to wait several minutes for your PC to boot up?

In 2025, slow startup issues on Windows PCs are still very common. Fortunately, there are practical ways to fix them—even for beginners.

This guide explains 7 easy solutions to make your Windows computer boot faster, using updated tips based on the latest Windows versions.

Main Causes of Slow Boot on Windows

  • Too many startup apps
  • Using an old HDD instead of an SSD
  • Pending or failed Windows Updates
  • Viruses or malware
  • Too many cache or junk files
  • Low RAM or aging hardware

Let’s go through the fixes one by one.

1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps

Too many apps launching at startup can dramatically slow down boot time.

How to Check:

  1. Right-click the taskbar → open Task Manager
  2. Select the Startup tab
  3. Right-click unnecessary apps → choose Disable

Tip: You can disable anything that’s not related to security or drivers.

2. Upgrade to an SSD (If You’re Still Using an HDD)

If your PC is still running on an HDD, switching to an SSD will make a huge difference.

SSDs read data instantly, unlike HDDs that rely on physical spinning disks.

Quick Facts:

  • Clone your OS to the new SSD to keep your data
  • Estimated cost: $60–$120 depending on model
  • Fastest and most effective upgrade for boot time

3. Check for Windows Updates

Pending or failed updates can slow down your startup by causing delays during boot.

How to Check:

  1. Go to Settings → Windows Update
  2. Click Check for updates
  3. Install any available updates and restart

⚠ Tip: Always back up your files before major updates.

4. Clean Temporary and Junk Files

Too many files and cache can clutter your system, slowing down startup and overall performance.

How to Clean:

  1. Search for Disk Cleanup in the Start Menu
  2. Select drive C: and choose files to delete
  3. Click Clean up system files to remove update leftovers

5. Add More RAM If Needed

If your PC has less than 8GB of RAM, adding more memory can help it boot and run smoother—especially on Windows 11.

How to Check:

  • Open Task Manager → check RAM usage under “Performance”
  • Consider upgrading to 8GB or 16GB if it’s lower
  • Make sure to check compatibility before purchase

6. Run a Full Virus and Malware Scan

Some malware runs in the background, slowing down your startup.

Recommended:

  • Use Microsoft Defender or trusted third-party antivirus
  • Do a full system scan regularly

Security software links by region:

7. Try Windows Startup Repair

If nothing else works, try Windows built-in recovery tool:

How to Use:

  1. Hold Shift and click Restart
  2. Go to Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Repair

This may take 10–15 minutes and can fix boot errors automatically.

Bonus: Prevent Slow Boot in the Future

  • Clean up your PC monthly using Disk Cleanup
  • Uninstall unused software
  • Disconnect old external devices when not in use
  • Run full virus scans every few months
  • Enable “High performance” power mode in Windows

Summary: 7 Ways to Fix a Slow Boot

FixWhat It DoesEffect
Disable Startup AppsStops unnecessary apps from launchingShorter boot time
Upgrade to SSDReplace slow HDDBiggest speed boost
Check UpdatesApply latest patchesImproved stability
Clean Junk FilesFrees up drive spaceFaster performance
Add More RAMIncreases memorySmoother multitasking
Virus ScanRemoves background malwareMore responsive system
Startup RepairFixes hidden boot errorsSystem recovery

Slow boot issues are frustrating, but most of them have simple causes and easy fixes.

Try the tips above one by one, and your PC will likely return to its normal, fast state.

If you’re not comfortable making hardware changes yourself, consider asking a local tech support service for help.

✔️You might also find these helpful:

▶︎[Full Guide] Power Light Is On but PC Shows No Display

▶︎ Top Windows 11 Blue Screen Errors and How to Fix Them

▶︎Windows Freezes for 30 Minutes After Update? Here’s How to Fix It

💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.