How to Fix Windows 11 Running Slow

Is your Windows 11 PC running slow, taking too long to start, or responding slowly when you open apps? Several issues can affect Windows 11 performance, including too many startup programs, limited storage space, outdated drivers, malware, and corrupted system files.

Fortunately, you can improve performance with several built-in Windows tools and settings. Follow the methods below in order, starting with the simplest solutions.

Why Is Windows 11 Running Slow?

Windows 11 may become slow for several reasons. Common causes include:

• Too many applications launching during startup
• Limited free storage space
• Outdated graphics or device drivers
• Malware or unwanted software
• Too many background applications
• Corrupted Windows system files
• Windows updates or software conflicts

Before making major changes, restart your computer and check whether the performance improves. If the problem continues, move through the solutions below.

1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Applications that launch automatically can increase startup time and continue using system resources in the background.

To disable unnecessary startup programs:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Select Startup apps.
3. Review the applications listed.
4. Select an application you do not need at startup.
5. Click Disable.

Avoid disabling Windows system components or applications that you need immediately after signing in.

2. Check Your Available Storage Space

A nearly full system drive can affect overall Windows performance. Removing temporary files and unused applications can give Windows more room to work.

To check your storage:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select System.
3. Choose Storage.
4. Review the available space on your system drive.
5. Remove temporary files that you no longer need.

If your computer is running low on storage, our guide to Windows Update Error Code 0x80070070 also covers Windows problems associated with insufficient disk space.

Do not delete Windows system files manually. Instead, use Windows Storage settings or Disk Cleanup to remove unnecessary data.

3. Update Your Graphics and Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause performance problems, especially when you use graphics-intensive applications or games.

You can check for driver updates through Device Manager.

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Select Device Manager.
3. Expand Display adapters.
4. Right-click your graphics device.
5. Select Update driver.
6. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

You can also check the computer or graphics card manufacturer’s website for newer drivers.

After installing a driver update, restart the computer and check whether Windows 11 responds more quickly.

4. Scan Windows 11 for Malware

Malware and unwanted applications can consume processor, memory, and disk resources. A security scan can help identify software that may be affecting system performance.

To run a scan:

1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
2. Select Virus & threat protection.
3. Choose Scan options.
4. Select Quick scan or Full scan.
5. Allow the scan to finish.

If Windows Security detects a threat, follow its recommended removal steps. Restart the computer afterward.

5. Run the System File Checker

Corrupted Windows system files can cause unexpected performance problems. The System File Checker tool can scan protected system files and repair supported problems.

To run SFC:

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Select Terminal (Admin).
3. Enter the following command:

sfc /scannow

4. Press Enter.
5. Wait for the scan to complete.
6. Restart your computer.

Do not close the Terminal window while the scan is running.

If SFC reports that it could not repair some files, run the DISM command below from an administrator Terminal:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

After DISM finishes, run sfc /scannow again and restart Windows.

6. Install Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases Windows updates that include security improvements, bug fixes, and compatibility updates.

To check for updates:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates.
4. Install available updates.
5. Restart the PC if Windows asks you to do so.

If Windows Update itself is failing or getting stuck, our guide to Windows 11 Update Stuck or Not Installing provides additional troubleshooting steps.

After updating Windows, check whether the system performance has improved.

7. Reduce Unnecessary Background Activity

Some applications continue running in the background even when you are not actively using them. Too many background processes can consume memory and processor resources.

Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc and review the Processes tab.

Look for applications that consistently use a large amount of CPU, memory, or disk resources. Close programs you recognize and do not currently need.

Be careful when ending processes. Avoid stopping Windows system processes unless you know what they do.

What If Windows 11 Is Still Running Slow?

If Windows 11 remains slow after trying the solutions above, the problem may involve hardware limitations, a damaged Windows installation, or a specific application.

Check Task Manager to identify whether CPU, memory, or disk usage remains unusually high. You can also disconnect unnecessary external devices and test Windows again.

As a final troubleshooting option, Windows provides a reset feature under Settings > System > Recovery. Before resetting the PC, back up important documents, photos, and other personal files.

A reset should not be the first solution. Try the simpler troubleshooting methods above before using it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Windows 11 suddenly running slow?

A sudden performance drop can result from a new application, background process, malware, insufficient storage, driver problem, Windows update, or corrupted system files.

How can I speed up Windows 11 quickly?

Start by restarting the PC, disabling unnecessary startup applications, freeing storage space, and checking Task Manager for applications using excessive resources.

Can outdated drivers make Windows 11 slow?

Yes. Outdated or incompatible drivers can sometimes cause performance and stability problems. Updating important device drivers can help resolve these issues.

Does low storage make Windows 11 slow?

Limited storage can contribute to performance problems. Removing unnecessary files and applications can free space on the system drive.

Should I reset Windows 11 if it is slow?

A reset can help when other troubleshooting methods fail, but it should generally be treated as a later option. Always back up important files first.

Conclusion

When Windows 11 is running slow, start with the basic causes before making major system changes. Disable unnecessary startup applications, free up storage space, update drivers, scan for malware, and repair corrupted system files with SFC and DISM.

Next, install pending Windows updates and check Task Manager for applications that consume excessive resources. These steps can resolve many common Windows 11 performance problems without requiring a complete reset.