Is Your Windows 11 Running Slow? Fix It with These 3 Simple Settings

A blue banner image showing a slow Windows 11 laptop and three icons representing startup apps, notifications, and visual effects settings to fix performance.

Is your Windows 11 PC getting slower every day?

It might not be your imagination. Some default settings in Windows 11 can silently reduce your system performance over time.

But don’t worry—this guide introduces 3 simple settings you can check and change right now to boost your PC’s speed and stability. You don’t need advanced skills. Just follow the steps below and enjoy a smoother Windows experience!

1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps

When your PC starts up, some apps launch automatically in the background—even if you don’t use them right away. These apps consume memory and CPU power, slowing down your entire system.

How to change this:

  • Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager.
  • In the left menu, click Startup apps.
  • Find apps with status “Enabled” that you don’t use often.
  • Right-click each one and choose Disable.

Important: Don’t disable your antivirus or security software!

2. Manage Notifications to Reduce Distractions

Too many pop-up notifications can distract you—and may even slow down your system slightly if they’re running in the background.

How to adjust:

  • Open SettingsSystemNotifications.
  • Turn off notifications for apps you rarely use.
  • Customize how and where notifications appear—such as disabling them on the lock screen or during Focus time.

You’ll stay more focused and your system can run lighter.

3. Turn Off Fancy Visual Effects

Windows 11 looks beautiful, but visual effects like animations and transparency can use up extra resources—especially on older or budget PCs.

How to disable them:

  • Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.
  • In the System Properties window, go to the Advanced tab.
  • Under Performance, click Settings.
  • Select Adjust for best performance, or manually uncheck effects you don’t need (like “Fade” or “Animate”).

It may not look as fancy—but you’ll likely notice a speed boost.

Still Slow? Consider These Extra Tips

If you’ve tried all of the above and your PC is still slow, the problem could be hardware-related. Here are some helpful upgrades:

  • Switch to an SSD: It’s one of the most effective ways to speed up any PC.
  • Add more RAM: If you have only 4GB, consider upgrading to 8GB or more.
  • Clean your device: Dust buildup can cause overheating and slowdowns.

Here are some trusted products to get started.

Disclosure: The following are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you.

Conclusion

You don’t need to be a tech expert to make your Windows 11 PC run faster. By simply disabling unnecessary startup apps, managing notifications, and turning off fancy effects, you can enjoy a noticeable speed boost today.

If you need more help, feel free to check our other articles—or contact a local PC support service for one-on-one guidance.

✔️You might also find these helpful:

▶︎How to Use Storage Sense in Windows to Free Up Space Automatically

▶︎How to Clean Up a Cluttered Right-Click Menu Using ShellEXView (2025 Edition)

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