While Windows 11 is a welcome change with its Start menu, taskbar, and other design improvements, the upgrade hasn't gone down well with some users. There were Problems with Bluetooth And Wi-Fi, and sometimes, many people have noticed lag after updating to Windows 11. If you notice your computer slowing down, here are ways to fix Windows 11 slowness after the update.
Microsoft releases Windows 11 updates to improve reliability and fix bugs in the software. Sometimes things can go south, and you may experience lag throughout your system. Before abandoning your ideal setup, use the troubleshooting tips below and enjoy the speed improvements.
1. Disable startup applications
After updating Windows 11, Microsoft may have enabled system apps to start when you sign in. You may notice: Startup OneDrive Or Microsoft Edge, even when you don't prefer them. You need to check for irrelevant startup applications and disable them from Settings.
Step 1: Open Windows 11 Settings menu (use Windows + I keys) and select Applications from the left sidebar.
Step 2: Locate Startup menu.
Step 3: Verify startup applications And its impact on the system.
Step 4: Disabled Applications and Services Unnecessary when Login.
From now on, Windows will start without any services or applications hindering it in the background.
2. Remove unwanted applications
Some third-party applications may become incompatible with your computer's shiny new operating system. These applications may stop responding or start crashing on your computer. You need to update or remove these applications (if they are no longer needed).
Step 1: turn on Windows 11 Settings menu and go to Applications section From the left section.
Step 2: Locate Applications and Features.
Step 3: Look for Application You don't need it and specify Three-dot list beside him.
Step 4: Click "uninstall" Confirm your decision.
3. Empty storage space
When you're dealing with little or no storage space on your computer, you'll notice a lag in daily tasks. Windows 11 comes with a dedicated storage manager. Here's how to use it.Reclaim some valuable storage.
Step 1: Click on Windows key + I to turn on Settings. in System tab In the left column, select Storage from the right part.
Step 2: check up Temporary files And remove it from the following list.
You can enable the Storage Sense toggle to automatically free up space, delete temporary files, and manage locally available cloud content from the same Storage menu.
Note: Always keep an adequate amount of free storage before downloading any major OS update.
4. Download optional updates
When installing a Windows 11 update on your computer, it will skip optional updates. If you notice a delay after a successful update, you'll need to install these optional updates.
Step 1: Click on Windows key + I To open Settings and move to Windows Update.
Step 2: Locate Advanced Options.
Step 3: Check for optional updates in Options menu Incremental.
Step 4: Select all Driver updates Hang and press Download and install button.
Start using your Windows computer, and you should not notice lag in daily use.
5. Run system diagnostics
If your computer experiences hardware failure after updating to Windows 11, you'll notice lag and your computing experience will feel sluggish. Your computer comes with built-in software for system diagnostics. At the very least, laptop and desktop computer manufacturers pack dedicated apps for hardware diagnostics. If your computer doesn't have one, you can skip this solution.
Note: We'll use the steps for an HP laptop. Your computer may differ.
Step 1: Open HP Support Assistant app.
Step 2: Locate Run hardware diagnostics From the main menu.
Step 3: Click Component tests from the left sidebar.
Step 4: Enable the check mark next to all components and select the Run once button.
Similarly, you can run system tests to ensure that key components are working properly.
6. Check the computer temperature.
If your computer is running hot after updating to Windows 11, you'll notice system lag here and there. Check out our dedicated guide on how to reduce CPU temperature on your computer. You can check this, take the necessary steps to reduce the temperature, and try using your computer again.
7. Revert to the previous operating system version.
Are you still experiencing lag after following all the steps above? Microsoft may have released a buggy Windows 11 update. You have the option to restore the Windows version on your computer.
Step 1: Click on Windows key + I To open Settings app and select the system from the left sidebar.
Step 2: Scroll down and select Recovery.
Step 3: Locate Back button within List of recovery options.
Follow the on-screen instructions and start using a stable and smooth Windows system on your PC.
8. Run a Windows Security Scan
Malicious or corrupted files can be the main reason behind system slowdowns. You don't need to rely on third-party antivirus applications to find and remove these files. Microsoft's Windows Security tool should get the job done.
Step 1: Click on Windows key , and search for Windows Security , And press Enter to open the application.
Step 2: Locate Virus and threat protection from the left sidebar.
Step 3: Click Quick scan button Run a full scan on your computer.
Once Windows Security finds and removes these files, restart your computer.
Keep your Windows 11 PC up to date
Windows updates are available to improve your computing experience. However, when Windows 11 lags after an update, it's still fixable before you decide to install it again. Use the solutions above to fix Windows 11 lag after an update on your PC in no time. If you've found another trick, please share it in the comments below.
