Disable Startup Apps for Faster Boot
Windows 11 Settings 2025 can dramatically improve your PC’s speed, performance, and privacy. By tweaking just a few essential settings — from startup apps and background processes to storage management and power modes — you can make your system faster, smoother, and more secure without installing any extra software.
How to do it:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Go to the Startup Apps tab.
Right-click and Disable any non-essential apps (e.g., Spotify, Teams, Zoom).
Result: Boot time reduces significantly, and your system starts faster.
2. Turn Off Background Apps
Some apps run even when you’re not using them, draining RAM and CPU.
Steps:
Go to Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.
Click the three dots (…) beside an app → Advanced Options.
Under Background App Permissions, select Never.
Result: Less background activity = smoother performance and longer battery life.
3. Enable Storage Sense
Windows stores temporary files that clutter your SSD. Storage Sense cleans them automatically.
Steps:
Open Settings → System → Storage.
Turn on Storage Sense.
Click Configure cleanup schedules.
Enable automatic deletion of Recycle Bin and temporary files.
Result: Frees up space and keeps your storage optimized without manual cleanup.
4. Adjust Power Mode for Performance
By default, Windows uses a balanced power plan that saves energy but limits performance.
Steps
Open Settings → System → Power & Battery.
Under Power Mode, select Best Performance.
Result: Ideal for gaming, video editing, or multitasking — uses more power but boosts speed.
5. Turn Off Activity History & Tracking
Windows 11 keeps track of your app and document usage history — which can slow things down and affect privacy.
Steps:
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Activity History.
Uncheck Store my activity history on this device.
Result: Less background tracking = improved privacy and reduced background tasks.
6. Disable Visual Effects for a Speed Boost
Animations look pretty but consume resources — especially on older PCs.
Steps:
Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.
Go to Advanced → Performance Settings.
Select Adjust for best performance, or manually uncheck:
Animate windows when minimizing and maximizing
Fade or slide menus into view
Result: Windows feels snappier and loads windows instantly.
7. Manage Notifications & Focus Assist
Too many background notifications can interrupt workflow and drain resources.
Steps:
Go to Settings → System → Notifications.
Turn off unnecessary app notifications.
Enable Focus Assist → Priority Only for distraction-free work.
Result: Fewer interruptions, better focus, and improved performance.
8. Uninstall Bloatware & Pre-Installed Apps
Windows 11 includes apps like Xbox, Spotify, or Weather that you might never use.
Steps:
Open Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.
Sort by size or date.
Uninstall unwanted programs one by one.
Result: More disk space, faster updates, and cleaner menus.
9. Update Drivers Automatically
Outdated drivers can cause lag, crashes, and hardware issues.
Steps:
Open Settings → Windows Update → Advanced Options.
Enable Receive updates for other Microsoft products.
Check for updates regularly.
Result: Smooth hardware performance and fewer system errors.
10. Use BitLocker or Device Encryption
Protect your data with Windows’ built-in encryption tool.
Steps:
Search BitLocker in Start menu → Open Manage BitLocker.
Turn it On for your system drive.
Save your recovery key securely (USB or Microsoft Account).
Result: Secures your data in case of theft or unauthorized access.
Bonus Tip: Turn Off Tips and Ads in Windows
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → General
Disable:
Let apps show me personalized ads
Show me suggested content
Result: Cleaner experience, fewer background connections.
Final Optimization Checklist
| Task | Benefit | Time |
| Disable Startup Apps | Faster Boot | 2 min |
| Turn Off Background Apps | Save RAM | 3 min |
| Enable Storage Sense | Auto Cleanup | 1 min |
| Adjust Power Mode | More Speed | 10 sec |
| Disable Visual Effects | Faster UI | 1 min |
| Update Drivers | Stable PC | 5 min |
Conclusion
By changing these 10 Windows 11 settings, you can transform your PC’s performance, privacy, and speed — without installing any extra software
