Forum Discussion
Raylander
May 17, 2026Brass Contributor
How do I optimize my PC performance in Windows 11?
Hi, My PC has been running slower than usual lately — sluggish on startup and when switching between apps. I'm on Windows 11 and I'm a complete beginner, so I want to make sure I don't accidentally ...
Henrony
May 18, 2026Iron Contributor
Here is a fresh explanation of how disabling unnecessary startup apps is one of the most effective ways to optimize my PC with Windows 11, written in my own words. Windows gives you complete control over what launches at startup. You don't need any paid software or special skills. Here's how to do it.
Using Task Manager:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Task Manager
- Click the Startup apps tab in the left sidebar
- You will see a list of every program that launches when Windows starts
- Pay attention to the "Startup impact" column. Programs marked "High" or "Medium" are the ones slowing you down the most
- Right-click any program you don't need immediately and select Disable
Using Settings:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Click Apps in the left sidebar, then click Startup
- Use the toggle switches to turn Off any program that doesn't need to run at startup
If you want to optimize my PC with Windows 11, disabling unnecessary startup apps is the single highest-impact change you can make. It requires no money, no technical certifications, and no risky registry edits. It takes three minutes. And it works on every Windows 11 computer, whether it's a high-end gaming rig or an older laptop struggling to keep up.