If your Windows 10 PC has started feeling slower than usual taking forever to boot freezing during simple task or lagging when you switch between apps you are not alone. Over the time every computer slows down due to unnecessary background processes bloated startup programs temporary files and outdated software. The good news is. You don’t need to be a tech expert to make your Windows 10 PC run faster. With a few simple tweaks and optimizations you can dramatically improve performance and make your computer feel like new again.

Step by step through easy highly effective ways to speed up your Windows 10 system. Whether you are dealing with lags slow startups or poor multitasking performance these tweaks will help deliver a smoother and faster experience.

Clean Up Unnecessary Startup Programs

One of the most common reasons PCs slow down is the number of apps that automatically run at startup. These apps consume memory and processing power long before you even open them.

To fix this:

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Click the Startup tab.
Disable programs you don’t need to start automatically (e.g., Spotify, Teams, Discord, etc.).

You’ll notice your PC boots faster immediately.

1: Uninstall Bloatware & Unused Applications

Windows 10 often comes bundled with unnecessary software and over time users install apps they no longer use. These programs take up space and run background processes.

To clean them:

Open Settings.
Go to Apps → Apps & features.
Remove anything you don’t use regularly.

Focus on toolbars trial software random utilities and outdated programs.

2: Optimize Windows 10 Performance Settings

Windows includes built-in visual effects like animations and shadows. While they look nice they can slow down older or low spec PCs.

To optimize:

Search “Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows”.
Select Adjust for best performance (or customize which animations to keep).

This reduces load on your CPU and RAM and improves responsivenes.

3: Free Up Disk Space

When your system drive is nearly full Windows slows down drastically. Freeing up disk space can lead to instant performance gains.

Use the builtin Disk Cleanup tool:

Open Windows Search and type Disk Cleanup.
Select your C: drive.
Check temporary files, recycle bin, and system cache.
Click OK to delete them.

You can also enable Storage Sense in Settings to automate cleanup.

4: Use ReadyBoost for Extra Speed (USB Flash Drive)

If your PC has low RAM (4GB or less) Windows can use a USB drive as additional memory via ReadyBoost.

To use it:

Insert a fast USB drive.
Right-click it → Properties → ReadyBoost tab.
Select Use this device and allocate space.

This is an excellent performance booster for older computers.

5: Disable Background Apps

Background apps can silently consume resources even when you are not using them.

To disable:

Open Settings → Privacy.
Scroll to Background apps.
Turn off apps you don’t need running.

This results in better speed and longer battery life.

6: Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated software drivers or system components can lead to slow performance and bugs.

Make sure you update:

Windows 10
Graphics drivers
Network drivers
Motherboard/chipset drivers

Upto date systems run smoother and more efficiently.

7: Turn Off Windows Tips and Notifications

Windows occasionally sends suggestions and notification but these features consume background resources.

Disable them:

Open Settings → System → Notifications & actions.
Turn off Get tips, tricks, and suggestions.

This helps reduce CPU usage.

8: Run a Malware Scan

Malware is one of the biggest causes of slow performance. Even simple adware or browser hijackers can drastically slow your PC.

Use:

Windows Security (built in)
Or a trusted tool like Malwarebytes

Run a full scan and remove any detected threats.

9: Optimize Your Web Browser

If your PC feels slow mainly while browsing the internet the issue may be your browser.

Tips:

Clear browser cache
Disable unnecessary extensions
Update your browser
Limit the number of open tabs

Your PC and internet speed will thank you.

10: Restart Your PC Regularly

Many users keep their PC on for days or weeks without restarting. This allows processes to pile up in memory.

Restarting:

Clears temporary memory
Stops background processes
Improves system performance

A simple restart can fix many slow issues instantly.

11: Upgrade Hardware (Optional But Powerful)

If your PC is still slow after software optimization consider upgrading hardware.

Best upgrades:

SSD instead of HDD → 5x faster performance
Add more RAM → better multitasking
Replace old CPU or GPU (if possible)

Even switching from HDD to SSD alone can make your PC feel brand new.

Optimize Startup & Background Programs

A slow Windows 10 PC is often caused by too many apps loading at startup or running silently in the background. These programs consume RAM CPU power disk usage and even internet bandwidth slowing down your system long before you begin using it. By controlling what runs automatically and what stay active in the background you can significantly boost your computer performance.

1: Why Startup Programs Slow Down Your PC

Many applications such as Spotify Discord Microsoft Teams Adobe Updater and cloud services automatically set themselves to start when Windows boots.

Slow boot times
Heavy RAM usage
Delayed app launching
Frequent system freezes

When fewer apps run at startup Windows loads faster and feels more responsive.

2: How to Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps

Windows 10 makes it easy to view and manage everything that launches automatically.

Step by Step Guide

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Click on the Startup tab.
Look for apps marked High impact.
Right-click unwanted apps → choose Disable.

3: Which Apps You Should Disable

disable this:

Spotify
Steam / Epic Games Launcher
WhatsApp / Telegram
OneDrive (optional)
Adobe Creative Cloud
Discord
Update checkers

Avoid disabling this:

Windows Defender
Graphics drivers (NVIDIA/AMD/Intel)
System utilities

4: Control Background Apps to Free Up Memory

Even after you close apps many continue running silently. These background processes consume system resources causing lag and slow performance.

i. How to Turn Off Background Apps

Open Settings → Privacy.
Scroll to Background apps.
Toggle off apps you don’t want running.

ii. Benefits of Disabling Background Apps

Reduced CPU usage
Improved RAM availability
Longer battery life (especially for laptops)
Faster system response

5: Use the Startup Impact Ratings to Improve Performance

Windows 10 labels apps with performance impact levels:

High Impact – significantly slows boot time
Medium Impact – moderate slowdown
Low Impact – minimal effect

Prioritize disabling High Impact apps for maximum results.

i. Clear & Reset Background Tasks

Some apps leave behind unnecessary tasks even after being disabled.

ii. Use Task Scheduler to Identify Hidden Background Tasks

Open the Start menu → type Task Scheduler.
Review tasks under:
- Task Scheduler Library
- Startup folder
Disable or delete tasks related to unused software.

This prevents apps from launching services even when startup settings are disabled.

iii. Disable Unnecessary Services (Advanced Users Only)

Windows runs many built in service but not all are essential for every user.

6: How to Access Windows Services

Press Windows + R → type services.msc.
Look for services marked Running.
Only disable non-Microsoft services you recognize.

i. Services You Can Safely Disable

Xbox Live Services
Bluetooth audio/telemetry (if unused)
Remote Registry
Printing services (if you have no printer)

⚠ Important: Avoid disabling services if you are not sure what they do.

ii. Use Lightweight Alternatives

Sometimes the best way to improve speed is to replace heavy software with lightweight options.

Replace Adobe Reader → use Foxit Reader
Replace Chrome → use Edge or Firefox
Replace heavy antivirus → use built-in Windows Security

Examples:

This reduces both startup load and background resource usage.

iii. Key Points to Remember

Too many startup programs = slow boot time
Background apps drain CPU, RAM, and battery
Disable high-impact items first
Use Task Manager, Privacy Settings, and Task Scheduler
Avoid disabling system or Microsoft services
Performance improves instantly after cleanup

Adjust Visual Effects for Better Performance

Windows 10 comes with animations shadow transparency effects and visual enhancements designed to make the interface look modern and smooth. While these effects improve appearance they can negatively impact system performance especially on older or low spec PCs. Disabling or reducing these visual features can significantly improve speed responsiveness and multitasking capability.

1: How Visual Effects Impact System Performance

i. Visual elements such as:

Fade animations
Smooth transitions
Window shadows
Taskbar transparency
Aero effects

ii. Consume CPU and RAM. On weaker systems, these effects cause:

Lag during window switching
Slower menu opening
Frame drops
Higher memory usage

iii. Turning them off or reducing them helps your PC run lighter and faster.

2: How to Adjust Visual Effects in Windows 10

Windows provides a built-in tool to manage all performance-related visual features.

i. Step by Step Guide

Press Windows Key + R
Type sysdm.cpl and hit Enter
Go to the Advanced tab
Under Performance, click Settings
Choose one of the options:
- Adjust for best performance (maximum speed)
- Custom (recommended for balanced results)

3: Recommended Visual Effects to Disable

If you prefer not to disable everything you can select the only the most demanding effects.

i. Disable These for Best Speed:

Animate windows when minimizing and maximizing
Show shadows under windows
Fade or slide menus into view
Fade or slide tooltips into view
Animate controls and elements inside windows
Show transparency in taskbar and Start menu

ii. Keep These Enabled for Usability:

Smooth edges of screen fonts
Show thumbnails instead of icons
Enable Peek (optional)

This combination ensures your PC runs fast without sacrificing clarity or readability.

4: Turn Off Transparency Effects for Extra Speed

Windows 10 transparency effects may look nice but they require GPU processing.

i. How to Disable Transparency:

Open Settings
Go to Personalization → Colors
Turn off Transparency effects

This small change alone can noticeably boost performance on low-end systems.

5: Use the “Best Performance” Mode for Maximum Speed

Choosing Adjust for best performance disables all visual effects at once.

i. Who Should Use This Mode?

Users with older computers
PCs with 4GB RAM or less
Slow hard drive users (HDD)
Systems struggling with multitasking

You’ll instantly notice faster windows, quicker menus, and smoother navigation.

6: Combine Visual Optimization With Other Tweaks

Adjusting visual effects works even better when paired with:

Disabling startup apps
Cleaning temporary files
Running in high performance power mode
Updating drivers
Using an SSD

These combined optimizations significantly boost overall system speed.

Key Points to Remember

Visual effects make Windows look good but slow performance
Disabling animations reduces RAM and CPU usage
Transparency effects consume GPU resources
Customizing effects delivers the best balance between speed and appearance
Older PCs benefit most from disabling animations fully

Clean Up Disk Space and Remove Bloatware

A full hard drive can slow Windows ten dramatically because the system needs free space to load files, create temporary data and run programs smoothly. Cleaning up disk space is one of the easiest ways to improve overall performance.

1: Remove Junk Files Quickly

Windows ten includes a built in tool that deletes temporary file old system data and items in the recycle bin.
Open Disk Cleanup from the Start menu select your main drive and allow the tool to scan. Check all unnecessary file categories and confirm the cleanup. This instantly frees space and helps Windows run faster.

2: Enable Storage Sense

Storage Sense automatically removes old temporary files clear unused folders and keeps your system clean in the background.
Go to Settings then System then Storage and turn on Storage Sense. This ensures your PC stays optimized without manual cleanup.

3: Uninstall Unused Programs

Over time many apps accumulate and continue to occupy space even when you no longer use them. Some also run hidden processes that slow your computer.
Open Settings then Apps and remove anything you do not need. Focus on trial apps pre installed software toolbar style programs and outdated utilities.

4: Remove True Bloatware

Many new computers include unnecessary software that consumes space and slows startup. You can safely uninstall game trials media players coupon apps and manufacturer branded utilities you never use. Clearing this software improves performance and gives you back valuable storage.

5: Keep Your System Lean

Regularly deleting temporary files removing unwanted programs and keeping bloatware off your PC ensures smooth performance and faster load times. A clean drive allows Windows ten to work more efficiently and improves everyday speed.

Leverage ReadyBoost (if Using HDD)

If your PC has a traditional hard drive and low RAM using ReadyBoost can improve performance. ReadyBoost allows Windows to use a USB flash drive as additional memory.

1: How to Enable ReadyBoost

Insert a fast USB drive
Right click the drive and select Properties
Go to the ReadyBoost tab
Choose Use this device and allocate space
Click Apply and OK

2: Benefits of ReadyBoost

Faster access to frequently used files
Improved multitasking on low RAM systems
Better overall system responsiveness
ReadyBoost is especially helpful on older PCs or laptops with limited memory.

Increase Virtual Memory (Paging File)

Virtual memory also known as a paging file is a portion of your hard drive that Windows uses as extra RAM. Increasing it can help your PC handle more apps and improve performance especially if your physical RAM is limited.

1: Steps to Increase Virtual Memory

Press Windows Key + R and type sysdm.cpl then press Enter
Go to the Advanced tab and click Settings under Performance
Select the Advanced tab and click Change under Virtual Memory
Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size
Select your system drive and choose Custom size
Set Initial size and Maximum size (usually 1.5 to 2 times your RAM)
Click Set and then OK
Restart your PC to apply changes

2: Benefits of Increasing Virtual Memory

Reduces system crashes during heavy multitasking
Improves responsiveness on low RAM PCs
Helps run memory-intensive applications

Increasing the virtual memory is a simple tweak that boosts system stability and speed without additional hardware.

Update Windows & Device Drivers Regularly

Keeping Windows and your device drivers up to date is essential for performance and stability. Updates fix bugs improve security and enhance system speed.

1: How to Update Windows

Open Settings
Go to Update & Security
Click Check for updates
Install all available updates to keep your system running smoothly

2: How to Update Device Drivers

Press Windows + X and select Device Manager
Right-click your hardware and select Update driver
Focus on graphics network and chipset drivers for best performance

Regular updates prevent slowdowns crashes and compatibility issues making your PC faster and more reliable

Safeguard Performance with Virus Scans & Maintenance

A slow PC is often caused by malware or accumulated system clutter. Regular virus scans and maintenance keep your Windows 10 PC running smoothly and protect it from performance draining threats.

1: Run Regular Virus Scans

Use Windows Security or a trusted antivirus tool to perform full system scans. This detects and removes malware spyware and adware that can slow down your computer and disrupt daily tasks.

2: Clean Temporary Files

Windows accumulates cache, logs, and temporary files over time. Use Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense to remove them and free up disk space. This reduces storage load and improves speed.

3: Keep Windows Updated

Install the latest Windows updates to fix bugs patch security vulnerabilities and improve system performance. Updated drivers for graphics network and storage devices also boost efficiency.

4: Automate Maintenance Tasks

Enable automatic maintenance in Windows 10 to schedule disk optimization software updates and system checks. This ensures your PC stays fast without constant manual effort.

i. Key Points to Remember:

Regular virus scans protect your PC from malware
Cleaning temporary files frees up storage
Updates improve security and performance
Automatic maintenance keeps the system optimized

Conclusion

A slow Windows 10 computer doesn’t mean you need expensive upgrades or paid optimization tools. With the right techniques, you can significantly improve your system speed for free. From cleaning your computer and disabling unnecessary startup programs to adjusting visual effects and using builtin maintenance command each step contributes to a faster, smoother, and more responsive experience.

Apply these strategies consistently, and your PC will reward you with better performance longer lifespan and a much smoother daily workflow.

FAQs

Q1. How can I make my Windows 10 PC run faster quickly?

You can disable unnecessary startup programs, clean temporary files, and adjust visual effects to get an instant speed boost.

Q2. Does disabling startup apps improve Windows 10 speed?

Yes, reducing startup programs significantly improves boot time and overall performance.

Q3. Is ReadyBoost still useful for speeding up a PC?

ReadyBoost helps only on systems using a traditional HDD; it does not improve performance on SSD-based PCs.

Q4. How much virtual memory should I set in Windows 10?

A good rule is to set virtual memory to 1.5 to 3 times your RAM size for stable performance.

Q5. Why is my Windows 10 still slow even after cleanup?

Your PC may be slow due to outdated drivers, malware, too many background apps, or insufficient hardware resources.