How to Speed Up Windows 11 in 2026 – 12 Proven Ways

Introduction

Windows 11 is beautiful, but after a few months it often becomes slower due to accumulated junk files, unnecessary startup programs, fragmented registry, and background processes. In this comprehensive guide we will show you 12 proven methods that will help you speed up your computer dramatically.

1. Clean Up Junk Files (Biggest Impact)

Use CCleaner or built-in Storage Sense to remove temporary files, cache, old Windows updates and thumbnails. This alone can free up 10–30 GB and make the system noticeably faster.

2. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Startup apps. Disable everything you don't need immediately after boot (OneDrive, Spotify, Discord, etc.).

3. Use Microsoft PowerToys – FancyZones

Install PowerToys and enable FancyZones. It dramatically improves multitasking and workflow speed.

4. Switch to High Performance Power Plan

Go to Power Options → Choose "High Performance" or "Ultimate Performance".

5. Update Windows and Drivers

Always keep Windows 11 and graphics drivers up to date.

6. Disable Visual Effects

System Properties → Advanced → Performance Settings → Adjust for best performance.

7. Use Everything Instead of Windows Search

Install Everything — it finds files instantly and uses almost no resources.

8. Clean Registry (Carefully)

Use CCleaner or Wise Registry Cleaner.

9. Disable Background Apps

Settings → Privacy → Background apps.

10. Use SSD Properly

Enable TRIM, disable hibernation if you have enough RAM.

11. Browser Optimization

Use Firefox or Edge with hardware acceleration and uBlock Origin.

12. Advanced: Debloat Windows 11

Use Chris Titus Tech WinUtil or manual debloating scripts.