How to Speed Up a Slow Windows PC

Fix a sluggish Windows computer with these proven methods. Clean startup programs, update drivers, and optimize storage for better performance.

1. Disable unnecessary startup programs. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. Click the Startup tab. Review the list and right-click any programs you don't need immediately at boot. Select Disable for applications like Spotify, Steam, or Adobe updaters that slow initial startup.
2. Run Disk Cleanup to free storage space. Type 'Disk Cleanup' in the Start menu and select your main drive (usually C:). Check all boxes except Downloads unless you're certain those files are unnecessary. Click OK and confirm deletion. This removes temporary files, system cache, and Windows Update leftovers that accumulate over time.
3. Update device drivers. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. Look for devices with yellow warning triangles or expand categories like Display adapters and Network adapters. Right-click outdated devices and select Update driver. Choose 'Search automatically for drivers' to let Windows find current versions.
4. Adjust visual effects for performance. Type 'sysdm.cpl' in the Start menu and press Enter. Click the Advanced tab, then Settings under Performance. Select 'Adjust for best performance' or choose 'Custom' to keep only essential effects like 'Show thumbnails instead of icons' and 'Smooth edges of screen fonts'.
5. Check for malware and unwanted software. Open Windows Security from the Start menu and run a Quick scan. While it runs, go to Settings > Apps and review installed programs. Uninstall bloatware, trial software, and applications you no longer use. Pay attention to programs from unknown publishers or those installed recently.
6. Enable storage optimization. Open Settings and navigate to System > Storage. Click Configure Storage Sense and turn it on. Set it to run automatically every month and check 'Delete temporary files that my apps aren't using'. Enable 'Delete files in my recycle bin if they have been there for over 30 days'.
7. Restart and verify improvements. Restart your computer to apply all changes. After Windows loads, open Task Manager and check the Performance tab to monitor CPU, memory, and disk usage. Normal idle usage should show CPU under 10%, memory under 80% of capacity, and minimal disk activity.