Windows 11 feels slow? Practical checks

You do not need special software to speed up a sluggish PC. Windows 11 already includes the tools you need. Work through these steps in order, and tick each one off as you go.

1. Restart, rather than shut down

   Windows 11 uses a feature called Fast Startup, so choosing Shut down does not fully reset the system. Choose Start, then the power button, then Restart. This clears memory and finishes any half-installed updates.

   If the PC feels normal afterwards, the slowdown was probably temporary. If it comes back within a day or two, carry on.

2. See what is using your PC

   Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. On the Processes page, select the CPU, Memory or Disk column heading to sort by it.

   • An app that stays near the top for minutes at a time may be the cause. Close it normally and see if things improve.
   • High disk use right after starting up is normal for a few minutes while Windows settles.
   • "Antimalware Service Executable" is Microsoft Defender scanning. It usually calms down on its own.

3. Review your startup apps

   Many apps set themselves to launch every time you sign in. Open Settings, then Apps, then Startup. Each app shows its likely impact on startup.

   Turn off apps you recognise and do not need straight away, such as chat apps, game launchers or cloud-storage tools you rarely use. They will still work when you open them yourself.

   Leave alone anything you do not recognise, as well as your security software and anything from your PC or graphics-card maker, until you have searched for its name and know what it does.

4. Free up storage space

   Windows slows down when the system drive is nearly full. Open Settings, then System, then Storage to see what is taking up space.

   • Select Temporary files, review the list, and remove the categories you do not need.
   • Check the Downloads category carefully before deleting it, as it may contain files you want to keep.
   • Turn on Storage Sense so Windows clears temporary files automatically.
   • Uninstall programs you no longer use from Settings, then Apps, then Installed apps.

5. Install pending updates

   Open Settings, then Windows Update, and select Check for updates. Install what is offered and restart when asked. Updates often include performance and stability fixes.

   Updated drivers can appear under Advanced options, then Optional updates. Only install these if you are troubleshooting a specific device problem.

6. Run a scan with Windows Security

   Unwanted software can slow a PC down. Open Windows Security, choose Virus & threat protection, and run a Quick scan. If it finds anything, follow the steps it recommends.

   You do not need to download a separate "PC cleaner". Many of those programs are unnecessary, and some are harmful.

7. Know when it is the hardware

   If your PC is still slow after all of the above, the hardware may be the limit. Older PCs with a spinning hard drive rather than a solid-state drive (SSD), or with 4 GB of memory or less, often struggle with Windows 11.

   Your PC maker's official website usually has diagnostic tools and information about which upgrades your model supports.