It's a process we barely notice because it happens so slowly: our PC loses speed, becoming increasingly slow and sluggish. This is usually due to multiple causes related to both hardware defects and system limitations. To remedy this, in this post we'll review some tips and tricks to optimize the performance and speed of your Windows PC.
Obviously, to determine the best way to improve your computer's performance, the first step is to identify the reason it's not working as it should. Most of the time, a reasonably reliable diagnosis can be made using the Windows Performance Monitor.
To access this resource, use the Windows + R key combination and type the command "perfmon" . All this will do is confirm that your PC is running too slowly and that something isn't working properly. Once you've established this, the hard part remains: figuring out how to fix the problem.
Remove potential viruses and malware
One of the most common reasons a PC slows down is that it has been infected by a virus or malware . That's why it's essential to always have a good antivirus program to keep your computer protected.
Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 come with their own pre-installed antivirus: Windows Defender . It's not a bad option, especially since installing a more powerful third-party tool can often cause more problems than it solves. These antivirus programs use a lot of resources, which slows down your computer.
Free up disk space
Over time, any PC accumulates a huge number of files that fill up the hard drive and slow down the computer. Microsoft's operating system has a specific function to perform this task: Disk Cleanup.
We can use this function to delete temporary files that remain stored on the disk unnecessarily, as well as all files that we consider dispensable.
Configure clean boot in Windows
Many of the programs and applications we install on our PCs come with the option to start automatically with Windows . What does this mean? Simply that these programs use more resources, and therefore, the computer startup process becomes slower.
The solution is to remove all the programs that run when you turn on your computer. This is done through the Task Manager. Simply select the programs that run at startup and click the "Disable" option. If you don't want to remove them, you can look in the settings for the option that makes the program start with Windows.
Uninstall dispensable programs and applications
Just like with files, applications we rarely use accumulate on our computers over time. Sometimes it's even worse, because even if we don't use them, they're running in the background, consuming resources. Getting rid of them is a good way to optimize the performance and speed of your Windows PC.
This is also applicable to many applications that come pre-installed within the operating system. Many of them can be removed without affecting the general functioning of the PC in the slightest.
Disable unnecessary features
While the word "unnecessary" can be quite subjective, the truth is that there are a number of Windows services and features we can do without if our main goal is good overall PC performance. For example, in Performance Options , we can adjust settings to reduce graphic and visual effects, eliminate animations, and so on.
Another feature that can be disabled is the Cortana virtual assistant . A large majority of Windows users don't use it.
Control the power consumption of the PC
It's simple logic: the more power your PC consumes, the harder it has to work. And that will inevitably affect its performance. Fortunately, starting with Windows 10, you can choose between different power modes for your computer . This is a great help in achieving the balance you're looking for.
A low power plan also reduces PC performance. On the other hand, a high consumption one will reduce the autonomy of the batteries (in the case of laptops) and increases the risk of overheating of some components. You have to put everything on a scale and choose carefully.
Update Windows
Essential for optimizing your PC's performance and speed in Windows . Many users don't give this the importance it deserves. And they're wrong. Keeping your PC drivers up to date will help improve Windows performance, making your PC run more smoothly.
The same can be said of the applications: it is highly recommended that they are duly updated at all times. In addition, it is something that does not require any effort on our part, we just have to allow the operating system to update itself from time to time.
Use cleaning apps
Although some experts advise against it due to privacy concerns, the truth is that using a good cleaning application is the most convenient way to keep your PC in top condition. There are many options available, but one of the most widely used worldwide is CCleaner —or at least one of the highest-rated.
Thanks to these apps we will be able to optimize, eliminate obsolete files and even configure a self-cleaning program with some regularity so that the program does the work on its own.
Format Windows
Finally, we'll mention the most drastic solution: formatting or reinstalling the operating system . This should only be attempted as a last resort, when everything else has failed. The steps are simple: Go to Start, then to Settings, then to "Update & Security," and finally select "Recovery." There you'll find the option to "Reset your PC." Important: Don't forget to back up your data before starting the process, as it's irreversible.