Windows 11 comes with many features turned on by default. While some of them are useful, others quietly slow down your system, collect data, or create distractions. Most users never need these extra options.
By turning off a few unnecessary settings, you can make your PC faster, cleaner, and more private. The steps explained below are easy to follow and work for users everywhere.
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Turn Off Features That Slow Down Your PC
Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps
When Windows starts, many apps launch automatically in the background. This increases boot time and uses extra memory.
You can open Task Manager and check the Startup Apps section. If an app is not needed immediately after turning on your PC, disable it.
This simple step helps your system start faster and feel more responsive.
Stop Apps Running in the Background
Some apps continue working even when you are not using them. They consume RAM and CPU power silently, which can reduce performance during multitasking or gaming.
In Settings, you can control background permissions for each app. Turning off unused background apps improves stability and keeps your system smooth.
Disable Browser Background Activity
Web browsers often stay active even after you close them. This leads to higher memory usage and battery drain.
Most browsers, including Chrome, allow you to turn off background processes from their settings. Once disabled, your PC runs cooler and performs better during long sessions.
Reduce Distractions for Better Focus
Turn Off Unnecessary Notifications
Constant alerts can interrupt work and break concentration. Many notifications are not important.
Windows allows you to disable notifications completely or block them for specific apps. This creates a calmer and more focused workspace.
Remove Start Menu Alerts
The Start menu sometimes shows reminders related to accounts or cloud services. Many users find these messages annoying.
You can disable these alerts from settings to keep the Start menu clean and distraction-free.
Disable Widgets
Widgets display news, weather, and trending stories. While useful for some, they often distract users during work.
Widgets can be turned off from Taskbar settings. After disabling them, the taskbar looks simpler and more practical.
Turn Off Copilot and Cortana (If Not Needed)
Windows 11 includes AI tools and voice assistants that run background services. Not everyone needs them.
If you prefer a cleaner system, you can uninstall Copilot and remove Cortana safely from installed apps. This reduces clutter and background resource usage.
Improve Your Privacy Settings
Limit Diagnostic Data Collection
Windows collects usage and diagnostic data by default. Optional data sharing is not required for normal use.
In Privacy settings, you can limit data collection to only what is essential. This improves privacy and reduces tracking.
Disable Activity History and Personalization
Windows stores activity history, search behavior, and typing data to personalize experiences across devices.
If you value privacy, you can turn off activity history, online speech recognition, and typing personalization. These changes greatly reduce personal data storage.
Remove Ads and Promotions
Turn Off File Explorer Promotions
File Explorer sometimes shows messages promoting Microsoft services. These are not useful for most users.
You can disable these promotional notifications in Explorer settings. After that, File Explorer feels cleaner and more professional.
Remove Lock Screen Ads
The lock screen may display rotating promotional images and suggestions.
With a few system adjustments, these ads can be disabled. Once removed, the lock screen becomes simple and distraction-free.
Control Search and Updates
Disable Online Search in Start Menu
When you search from the Start menu, Windows may send your query online. This slows down local search and affects privacy.
You can restrict search to local results only. This makes searches faster and keeps your data on your device.
Prevent Sudden Restarts After Updates
Windows updates sometimes restart your PC automatically, which can lead to lost work.
You can enable restart notifications so Windows alerts you before restarting. This gives you full control over update timing.
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Final Thoughts
Turning off a few unnecessary features in Windows 11 can make a big difference. Your PC starts faster, runs smoother, and feels less cluttered. Privacy improves, ads disappear, and distractions are reduced.
Apply these settings on every new Windows installation. Enjoy a cleaner, faster, and more controlled Windows 11 experience.
Jatin Rajput (Tech Golu) — Tech blogger & YouTuber with 6+ years of experience in WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and mobile guides. Founder of TechGolu.in.