How to Fix Windows 11 Slow Performance After Update

Many users notice that their PC becomes slow after updating to Windows 11. Apps take longer to open, startup feels sluggish, and overall performance drops. This can be frustrating, especially when the update was expected to improve the system.

The good news is that slow performance after a Windows 11 update is a common issue and can be fixed without reinstalling Windows or buying new hardware.

In this complete guide, you will learn practical and safe methods to fix Windows 11 slow performance after an update.

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Why Windows 11 Becomes Slow After an Update

After a major update, Windows runs background processes like indexing, optimization, and compatibility checks. These processes temporarily use system resources.

Other common reasons include:

• Outdated or incompatible drivers
• Startup apps running automatically
• Temporary system files
• Visual effects consuming resources
• Insufficient storage space

Understanding the cause helps you apply the right fix.

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Restart Your PC After Update

It may sound simple, but restarting your PC after a Windows update is very important. A restart allows Windows to complete background setup tasks and apply changes properly.

If your system feels slow immediately after updating, restart your computer at least once before trying advanced fixes.

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Disable Startup Programs

Many apps automatically start when Windows boots. Too many startup apps can slow down your PC significantly.

How to Disable Startup Apps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
2. Go to the Startup tab
3. Select unnecessary apps
4. Click Disable

Disabling startup apps improves boot time and overall performance.

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Free Up Disk Space

Windows updates often leave temporary files behind. Low disk space can make Windows 11 run slowly.

Use Storage Cleanup:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to System → Storage
3. Enable Storage Sense
4. Run cleanup manually

Deleting unnecessary files can instantly improve system speed.

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Check for Driver Updates

Outdated drivers are one of the biggest reasons for performance issues after updates. Graphics and chipset drivers are especially important.

Update Drivers Safely:

1. Open Device Manager
2. Right-click on a device
3. Select Update driver

Always install drivers from official manufacturer sources when possible.

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More fixes coming next…

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Reduce Visual Effects for Better Performance

Windows 11 comes with modern animations and visual effects that look good but can slow down PCs with limited hardware. Reducing these effects can instantly improve system responsiveness.

How to Adjust Visual Effects:

1. Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter
2. Go to the Advanced tab
3. Under Performance, click Settings
4. Select Adjust for best performance
5. Click Apply and then OK

This will disable unnecessary animations while keeping Windows functional and fast.

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Change Power Mode to Best Performance

After an update, Windows may reset your power plan to balanced or power saver mode, which can limit performance.

Set Power Mode to Best Performance:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to System → Power & Battery
3. Under Power Mode, select Best performance

This setting allows your CPU and system resources to perform at full capacity.

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Disable Background Apps

Some apps continue running in the background even when not in use. These apps consume RAM, CPU, and disk resources.

How to Disable Background Apps:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to Apps → Installed Apps
3. Select an unnecessary app
4. Click Advanced options
5. Set Background app permissions to Never

Repeat this for apps you rarely use.

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Turn Off Windows Search Indexing (Optional)

Windows Search Indexing helps find files quickly but can slow down older PCs by constantly using disk and CPU in the background.

How to Disable Search Indexing:

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type services.msc and press Enter
3. Find Windows Search
4. Right-click and select Stop
5. Set Startup type to Disabled

This is optional but helpful for HDD-based systems.

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Check for Malware and Security Issues

Sometimes performance issues are caused by malware or unwanted background processes. Windows Security includes built-in tools to scan and protect your system.

Run a Full Scan:

1. Open Windows Security
2. Go to Virus & threat protection
3. Select Scan options
4. Choose Full scan

This ensures your system is clean and secure.

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Clear Temporary Files Manually

Temporary files left after updates can slow down Windows 11. Cleaning them regularly helps maintain performance.

Delete Temp Files:

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type %temp% and press Enter
3. Select all files and delete them

Skipping files in use is normal.

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Final Thoughts (Part 2)

Most Windows 11 performance issues after updates are temporary and can be fixed with simple system adjustments. Disabling unnecessary effects, optimizing power settings, and managing background apps can make a noticeable difference.

These steps are safe and suitable for both beginners and advanced users.