A slow laptop can make even simple tasks frustrating. The good news is that Windows 11 offers several built‑in options that can boost speed quickly. These changes are easy to follow and work for almost every laptop. In this guide, you’ll find 10 simple and effective tips to improve performance and make your laptop run smoother.
1. Disable Startup Programs
Many apps start automatically when you turn on your laptop. As a result, Windows takes longer to boot.
To fix this, open Task Manager → Startup and turn off apps you don’t need. This reduces load and speeds up startup time.
2. Uninstall Unused Software
Over time, your laptop collects programs you no longer use. These apps take up space and may run in the background.
You can remove them from Settings → Apps → Installed apps. This frees storage and improves performance.
3. Update Windows and Drivers
Regular updates improve speed, fix bugs, and enhance security.
Go to Settings → Windows Update and install available updates.
You should also update drivers through Device Manager to ensure your hardware runs smoothly.
4. Change Power Mode to Best Performance
By default, Windows may be set to a balanced or power‑saving mode. These modes limit performance.
You can switch to Best performance by going to Settings → System → Power & battery.
This helps your laptop deliver more speed, especially during heavy tasks.
5. Clear Temporary Files and Cache
Temporary files build up over time and slow down your system.
To clean them, go to Settings → Storage → Temporary files and remove the unnecessary data.
You can also use the Disk Cleanup tool for deeper cleaning.
6. Disable Visual Effects
Windows 11 includes animations and visual effects that look great but use extra system resources.
You can turn them off through Advanced system settings → Performance settings.
This makes your laptop feel faster and more responsive.
7. Close Background Apps
Some apps keep running even when you are not using them. These apps consume RAM and CPU power.
You can open Task Manager and close programs that are not needed. This helps your laptop breathe better.
8. Run a Malware Scan
Malware can slow down your laptop drastically.
Use Windows Security or any trusted antivirus to perform a full scan.
Removing viruses and unwanted files ensures your system stays secure and fast.
9. Use Storage Sense
Storage Sense automatically removes junk files, temp files, and old data you no longer need.
You can enable it from Settings → Storage → Storage Sense.
Once enabled, it keeps your system clean without manual effort.
10. Upgrade RAM or Switch to an SSD
If your laptop is still slow, the hardware might be the issue.
Adding more RAM helps multitasking.
Switching from an HDD to an SSD is one of the biggest upgrades you can make. It speeds up booting, app loading, and overall performance.
⭐ Quick Summary
Here’s a quick look at everything you can do:
- Turn off startup apps
- Remove unused programs
- Update Windows and drivers
- Use Best Performance power mode
- Clean temporary files
- Disable visual effects
- Close background processes
- Scan for malware
- Turn on Storage Sense
- Upgrade RAM or move to SSD
Final Thoughts
Speeding up your Windows 11 laptop does not always require expensive repairs or upgrades. Most of the time, simple tweaks can bring noticeable improvements. With these ten tips, your laptop will run faster, smoother, and more efficiently.
