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Disabling startup apps and background processes can significantly cut RAM and CPU usage, speeding up overall system performance.
Updating drivers, adjusting power settings, and cleaning temporary files are simple yet powerful ways to boost Windows 11 efficiency.
Tweaking virtual memory and turning off unused features like Game Mode and SysMain can reduce lag without the need for hardware upgrades.
Windows 11 slows down sometimes. Apps lag, system stutters, and fans go into overdrive. No need for expensive upgrades. A few smart adjustments can restore speed and responsiveness. These tips and tricks will allow you to opitmize your system in a manner that your OS performs as efficiently as it can. Lets have a look at a clear guide to reduce RAM and CPU usage on Windows 11.
Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc). In the Processes tab, check for programs using high memory or CPU. Shut down any applications not needed at the moment.
Tip: Common background culprits include Discord, Chrome, and auto-update services.
Prevent unwanted programs from launching during boot:
Open Task Manager
Go to the Startup tab
Disable programs that don’t require immediate access
A cleaner startup list means a faster boot time.
Also Read: Lesser-known Windows 11 Features You Can't Live Without
Switching power mode can offer immediate speed improvements:
Go to Settings → System → Power & battery
Select Additional power settings
Choose High performance or Best performance
This setting is ideal when plugged into power.
The smooth running of your PC depends on updated drivers. Graphics, sound, network, and storage components all perform better when up to date.
To check for updates:
Press Windows + X and select Device Manager
Right-click a device and select Update driver
For the best results, visit the manufacturer’s official website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest versions directly
It runs silently in the background, slowing things down while you wonder what's wrong. Memory gets eaten, the CPU heats up, your connection lags, and worse, your files might be at risk. A full system scan isn’t optional; it’s essential. Fire up Windows Security or a reliable antivirus like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender. Clean out the mess. Let your system breathe.
To scan with Windows Security:
Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Security → Virus & Threat Protection
Click Scan Options and choose Full Scan
Temporary files clutter storage and slow down access speeds.
Steps:
Open Disk Cleanup via Start Menu
Select system drive (usually C:)
Tick temporary files, system logs, and the recycle bin
Click OK to delete
Storage settings also offer cleanup options under Settings → System → Storage.
Also Read: Say “Hey Copilot!”Microsoft Brings Voice-Activated AI to Windows 11
With limited RAM, virtual memory helps manage larger workloads.
To configure:
Search Advanced System Settings
Under Performance, click Settings
Go to Advanced → Virtual Memory
Set custom size (1.5x to 2x of RAM works well)
This supports multitasking on low-memory systems.
Game Mode prioritizes gaming tasks. For non-gamers, disabling it helps reallocate system resources:
Go to Settings → Gaming → Game Mode
Toggle it off
Background apps stay active even when not visible. Disable unnecessary apps:
Go to Settings → Privacy & security → Background apps
Turn off unused services
This frees up both RAM and CPU.
SysMain can cause high disk usage. Disable it via Services:
Press Win + R, type services.msc
Find SysMain, right-click → Properties
Click Stop, then set Startup type to Disabled
This often results in faster response times, especially on older systems.
Mechanical drives benefit from defragmentation:
Search Defragment and Optimize Drives
Select the drive
Click Optimize
SSD users should skip this step.
Updates fix bugs, patch security holes, and improve performance.
Navigate to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
Windows 11 can regain speed and efficiency with these adjustments. Each step reclaims resources, trims background load, and optimizes system response.
