Keep Windows Updated

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update

2. Click Check for updates

3. Install all available updates (including optional driver updates).

2.Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager

2. Go to the Startup apps tab

3. Right-click and Disable non-essential apps (e.g., Spotify, OneDrive, Zoom, etc.).

3.Clean Up Junk Files

Steps:

1. Open Settings > System > Storage

2. Enable Storage Sense

3. Click Temporary files and remove unwanted items (downloads, cache, etc.).

Optional: Use Disk Cleanup or tools like CCleaner for deeper cleanup.

4. Scan for Malware and Adware

Steps:

1. Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection

2. Run a Full scan.

Optional: Use a third-party scanner like Malwarebytes for more thorough scans.

5. Optimize Visual Effects for Performance

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, and hit Enter

2. Go to the Advanced tab > click Settings under Performance

3. Select Adjust for best performance or Custom (disable animations and transparency effects).

6. Defragment or Optimize Drives

Steps:

1. Search for Defragment and Optimize Drives

2. Select your main drive (usually C:)

3. Click Optimize.

⚠️ Only needed for HDDs – not SSDs. SSDs should be trimmed, not defragmented.

7. Manage Background Apps

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps

2. Click the 3-dot menu > Advanced options

3. Under Background apps permissions, set to Never if not needed.

8. Turn Off Tips, Ads & Telemetry

Steps:

1. Settings > System > Notifications: Turn off unnecessary tips

2. Settings > Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & feedback:

   • Set to Required only

   • Turn off tailored experiences.

9. Uninstall Bloatware

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps

2. Remove unused or pre-installed apps like Candy Crush, Xbox Game Bar (unless used), etc.

10. Optional Advanced Tools

• Autoruns (by Microsoft): Deep control over startup items

• Process Explorer: Real-time process monitoring

• Advanced SystemCare, Glary Utilities, or O&O ShutUp10++ for power users.

BONUS: Reset Windows (if needed)

If your system is still sluggish:

1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC

2. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.