How to Speed up Windows 11 laptop without software

If your Windows 11 laptop feels sluggish, you can enhance its performance without installing additional software. By adjusting built-in settings and features, you can optimize your system for better speed and responsiveness. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you achieve that.

1. Update Windows and Device Drivers

Keeping your system updated ensures you have the latest performance improvements and security patches.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Windows Update.
3. Click on Check for updates and install any available updates.

Regular updates can resolve underlying issues that may slow down your system.

2. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Programs that launch at startup can slow down boot times

Using Task Manager:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Startup tab.
3. Right-click on unnecessary programs and select Disable.

Using Settings:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Startup.
3. Toggle off programs you don’t need at startup.

Disabling unnecessary startup apps can improve boot times and overall performance.

3. Adjust Visual Effects for Performance

Windows 11’s visual effects can be taxing on system resources.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S, type View advanced system settings, and open it.
2. Under the Performance section, click Settings.
3. Select Adjust for best performance or customize by selecting Custom and unchecking unnecessary effects.
4. Click Apply, then OK.

Reducing visual effects can make your system more responsive.

4. Change Power Plan to High Performance

Windows balances performance and energy consumption by default. Switching to a high-performance plan can boost speed.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to System > Power & battery.
3. Under Power mode, select Best performance.

This setting ensures your system utilizes its full potential.

5. Enable Storage Sense

Storage Sense automatically frees up space by deleting unnecessary files.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System > Storage.
3. Toggle on Storage Sense.
4. Click on Storage Sense to configure how and when it runs.

Regular cleanup helps maintain optimal performance.

6. Uninstall Unused Applications

Removing programs you no longer use can free up resources.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Browse the list and uninstall unnecessary applications.

This declutters your system and can improve speed.

7. Clean Temporary Files

Temporary files can accumulate and slow down your system.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System > Storage > Temporary files.
3. Select the files you want to remove and click Remove files.

Regularly clearing temporary files helps maintain system efficiency.

8. Defragment Hard Drive (HDD Only)

If you’re using a traditional hard drive, defragmenting can improve performance.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + S, type Defragment and Optimize Drives, and open it.
2. Select your hard drive and click Optimize.

Note: SSDs do not require defragmentation.

9. Disable Background Apps

Some apps run in the background, consuming resources.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
3. Click on the three dots next to an app and select Advanced options.
4. Under Background apps permissions, choose Never.
5. Repeat for apps you don’t need running in the background.

10. Restart Your PC Regularly

Restarting clears temporary files and stops unnecessary processes. Aim to restart your laptop at least once a week to maintain performance.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can enhance your Windows 11 laptop’s performance without relying on additional software. Regular maintenance and mindful usage go a long way in ensuring a smooth computing experience.