Did you know a Lenovo PC from a few years back had almost 20 helper programs that often interrupted users¹? Some budget laptops come with too much pre-installed software, known as bloatware, which slows down the system¹. In fact, users might spend up to 15 minutes removing unwanted programs to make their system faster¹. But don’t worry, this article will give you key tips to make your Windows 10 device run smoother and faster.

Key Takeaways

• Identify and uninstall unwanted pre-installed software to improve system speed
• Utilize built-in tools like Disk Cleanup to free up storage and boost performance
• Upgrade RAM and storage to enhance overall system responsiveness
• Optimize power settings and disable unnecessary visual effects for better performance
• Keep Windows 10 updated to address bugs and improve system performance

Optimize System by Removing Bloatware

Many new Windows 10 and 11 computers come with extra software you don’t need, called bloatware or crapware. These programs slow down your system and make it hard to work². To make your computer run better, it’s important to find and delete these unwanted apps on your Windows device².

Identifying and Uninstalling Crapware

To make your Windows 10 or 11 faster, start by finding and deleting bloatware or crapware. Go to the Programs and Features in the Control Panel to see all the apps you have². Then, sort them by size or when you installed them to spot and delete big or unused apps. This makes your system run faster².

You can also use Windows tools like the Start menu and PowerShell to get rid of unwanted programs³. This is great for deleting apps like OneNote, Xbox, and others that came pre-installed².

Decluttering the System for Improved Speed

To make your Windows 10 or 11 even better, clean up your apps. Sort them by size or when you got them to find and delete big or unused ones. This boosts your device’s speed². You can do this in the Programs and Features section or with tools like EaseUS Partition Master².

Not just Windows, but many Android phones and tablets also have bloatware⁴. Things like weather, sports, and music apps can take up space you don’t need⁴. To get rid of them, go to Settings, then Apps & Notifications, and pick the apps to uninstall or turn off⁴.

By following these steps, you can make your Windows 10 or 11 run smoother by removing bloatware and crapware. This not only saves space but also makes your device less distracting and more efficient²³⁴.

“Bloatware and crapware can slow down your Windows 10 or 11 device. But with a few simple steps, you can get your system back to normal and improve your experience.”

Manage Startup Programs Effectively

Windows 10 often slows down because many programs start automatically when you turn it on⁵. About 30-40% of these programs can make your PC slow at startup⁵. But, Windows 10 users can easily manage these startup apps to make their computers run better.

The Task Manager in Windows 10 now has a “Startup” tab. This tab lets you see and stop unwanted startup programs⁶. You can check how each program affects your system, from No impact to High impact, and decide which to turn off⁶. Stopping High or Medium impact apps can make your system start faster. Even Low or No impact apps can free up memory⁶.

For those who want more control, tools like AutoRuns, Starter, and Startup Delayer are available⁶. These tools let you manage startup programs even better, helping you get the most out of your system.

Reviewing and disabling some startup programs can make your Windows 10 start faster⁷. This makes using your computer better and gives you more resources for work or fun⁷.

In summary, learning how to manage startup programs in Windows 10 is key to a smooth and fast computer experience. Using the Task Manager and other tools, you can control your startup apps. This way, you’ll enjoy a quicker and more responsive Windows 10 machine⁵⁶⁷.

Utilize Disk Cleanup for Storage Optimization

Keeping your Windows 10 device’s storage space in check is key for smooth performance. The Disk Cleanup tool is a great way to do this⁸. It helps manage storage by removing unnecessary files like temporary and system files⁸. Using Disk Cleanup can make your system run faster and help prevent storage problems⁸.

It also helps extend the life of your storage by reducing wear and tear from too many files⁸. Disk Cleanup has extra features like cleaning system restore points and Windows updates, and you can set it to clean automatically⁸.

Freeing Up Disk Space with Storage Sense

Windows 10 also has the Storage Sense feature for managing disk space automatically⁹. This tool helps you see where your storage is going and can clean up files for you⁹. Setting it to clean up regularly can stop storage from getting too full⁹.

Storage Sense can delete temporary files when your storage is low, so you don’t have to do it yourself⁹. While tools like CCleaner offer more cleaning options, Storage Sense is a good choice for Windows 10 users⁹.

Enabling Disk Defragmentation for HDDs

If you have a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), disk defragmentation can improve your system’s speed¹⁰. It makes files easier to access and store, which makes your system run better¹⁰. HDDs need defragmentation to stay efficient, unlike solid-state drives (SSDs)¹⁰.

Using Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense, and disk defragmentation together can help manage your storage well, improve your system, and make your storage last longer⁸⁹¹⁰.

Tool	Description	Recommendation
Disk Cleanup	Built-in utility for managing and optimizing storage space	Highly recommended for regular use to free up disk space and improve system performance8
Storage Sense	Automatic storage management and cleanup tool	Convenient and effective solution for Windows 10 users to free up disk space9
Disk Defragmentation	Optimizes file storage and access on traditional hard disk drives (HDDs)	Recommended for users with HDDs to maintain storage efficiency, not necessary for SSDs10

Using Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense, and disk defragmentation can make your Windows 10 device run better and keep your storage healthy⁸⁹¹⁰.

Upgrade to Higher RAM Capacity

For Windows 10 users wanting to boost their system’s performance, upgrading the RAM can make a big difference¹¹. You can find out how many RAM modules you have by using the “wmic memorychip” command. The number of memory slots on your motherboard can be checked with the “wmic memphysical” command¹¹. Adding more RAM can make your computer run smoother, start up faster, and support more tasks at once¹².

When you’re upgrading RAM, check your motherboard’s specs to see what type of RAM you can use (DDR3/4/5) and how much you can add¹¹. For everyday use, 8GB is enough, but 16GB is better for work, and 32GB or more is best for gaming¹¹. If you do a lot of video editing, streaming, or high-end gaming, consider getting 32GB or more of RAM for the best performance¹².

Make sure the new RAM matches the old one in terms of brand, speed, and voltage during the upgrade¹¹. If they don’t match, you might run into problems. Also, be aware of your motherboard’s limits on how many RAM modules you can add¹¹.

For older or less powerful systems, Windows 10’s ReadyBoost can use a USB drive as extra memory, but it’s not as good on newer systems with lots of RAM¹¹. You can check your RAM details with commands like “systeminfo” and “wmic memorychip” in Windows, or “free -m” and “sudo dmidecode -t 17” in Linux¹¹.

Upgrading your RAM can really make your Windows 10 system run better, giving you a smoother and faster experience¹².

RAM Capacity	Recommended Use
8GB	Minimum recommended
16GB	Improved performance for general tasks
32GB+	High-end gaming, video editing, and intensive applications

Remember to set your virtual memory right, especially if you have at least 2 GB of RAM¹³. Windows suggests setting it between 1.5 and 3 times your RAM size¹³. If you have enough RAM, you can even increase it up to 6,144 MB (6 GB) for better performance¹³.

“Upgrading RAM is a common practice to speed up computers, improve web browsing speed, optimize PCs for gaming, prevent crashes during resource-intensive tasks like video editing, and revitalize old PCs.”

By considering these tips and factors, Windows 10 users can make a smart choice when upgrading their RAM. This can lead to a big boost in system performance and responsiveness¹².

Enhance Performance with a Solid-State Drive

For Windows 10 users looking for a big boost in performance, switching to a solid-state drive (SSD) is a smart move¹⁴. SSDs are now the top choice for storing data on laptops and desktops because they are super fast and make your system run smoother than old hard disk drives (HDDs)¹⁵. SSDs can read data in less than 0.1 milliseconds, which is much faster than the 15 milliseconds for HDDs, making your computer feel lightning fast.

SSDs are great because they make your computer start up much quicker¹⁵. Windows 11’s Fast Startup feature works well with SSDs to speed up the boot time. SSDs also make your computer run better overall because they don’t have the slow loading times that HDDs do¹⁴. Even though SSDs might lose data during a power outage if you use write caching, this is very rare.

¹⁴ Windows 11 lets you control how often SSD optimization happens, so you can pick a time that works for you. Plus, if you have an SSD, you don’t need the Search Indexer because the drive can find files so quickly¹⁴.

¹⁴ As SSDs get full, they can start to slow down¹⁴. Things like hibernation files can take up a lot of space and slow things down. To keep your SSD running well, you should clean it regularly with tools like Auslogics BoostSpeed¹⁵.

¹⁶ Using AHCI mode can make your SSD about 10-15% faster than IDE mode¹⁶. Windows 7, 8, and 10 support TRIM, which keeps your SSD fast and long-lasting by deleting unused data¹⁶. Turning off the Indexing Service and System Restore can also help your SSD last longer and work better.

Switching to an SSD is a great way to make your Windows 10 system run faster¹⁵. By setting your power settings right, taking care of your SSD, and using features like AHCI mode, you can make your solid-state drive work its best. This means you’ll get a faster and smoother computer experience.

Scan for Malware and Viruses Regularly

Keeping your Windows 10 system safe and running well is key. A big part of this is scanning for malware and viruses often. The built-in Windows Defender antivirus is a strong tool. It finds and removes threats, keeping your system smooth¹⁷.

Using Windows Defender and Third-Party Antivirus

Windows Defender Antivirus works well with Windows 10. It will stop if another antivirus is on and active¹⁷. If that antivirus is removed, Defender will start again on its own¹⁷. Windows Security, which includes Defender, has many features like Virus & threat protection and Device security¹⁷. Your system’s security is shown by a color-coded icon. Green means you’re good, yellow means you should take action, and red means there’s a big problem¹⁷.

Windows Defender is a good choice, but you might also think about a third-party antivirus for extra safety. Antivirus programs like Malwarebytes, McAfee, Norton 360, Kaspersky, or others offer more security. They have real-time protection and cloud-delivered protection to keep your system safe from new threats¹⁸¹⁹.

Scanning your system often, with Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus, is key to keeping your Windows 10 device safe and running well. By finding and removing threats early, you keep your system protected and performing well¹⁹.

Adjust Power Settings for windows 10 Performance

Improving your Windows 10 device’s power settings can greatly boost its performance. With a few easy changes, you can get more power and speed from your system²⁰.

The default power plan, “Balanced,” aims for a good balance between saving energy and performance. But if you want more speed, try the “High Performance” or “Best Performance” plan²⁰²¹.

The “High Performance” plan focuses on power over saving energy. This lets your system run at its best. You’ll see better app speed, faster startup, and smoother gaming²².

For laptops, plug them in when using the “High Performance” plan. This way, your system can use its full power without worrying about the battery²².

To change your power settings, just follow these steps:

1. Open the Start menu and search for “Power & sleep settings”.
2. Click on “Additional power settings” in the right-hand panel.
3. Select the “High Performance” or “Best Performance” plan from the list.
4. If the “Ultimate Performance” plan is available, try enabling it for even better performance²².

Remember, the “High Performance” plan uses more power. So, use it when plugged in and not on battery²²²¹.

“Adjusting your Windows 10 power settings can make a noticeable difference in the overall performance of your system.”

By optimizing your windows 10 power settings, you can make your device work better. Enjoy a smoother and more responsive computing experience²⁰²²²¹.

Run Windows Troubleshooters Periodically

Want to make your Windows 10 run better? Try using the built-in Windows troubleshooters often. These tools help fix many system problems, making your computer work faster.

Resolving System Issues with Built-in Tools

Windows 10 has many troubleshooters for different issues, like network or audio problems²³. You can find troubleshooters like the ELAN fingerprint driver troubleshooter from 3/15/2023, the Access work or school troubleshooter from 8/24/2022, and the .NET Framework troubleshooter from 5/31/2022²³. These tools help you fix problems fast, improving your Windows 10.

²⁴ The Windows 10/11 troubleshooter tool can find and fix many errors on its own²⁴. You can get to it through the Settings app or Control Panel²⁴. With 18 troubleshooters, you can solve a lot of computer issues, from Bluetooth to power problems²⁴.

Sometimes, you might need more than the built-in tools for tough problems. Tools like MiniTool Power Data Recovery are great for getting back lost data. MiniTool Partition Wizard and MiniTool ShadowMaker help with disk management and backups²⁴.

Using Windows 10 troubleshooters and other tools together can make your system run better. Regular checks and troubleshooting keep your Windows 10 running smoothly and efficiently.

Disable Visual Effects for Resource Optimization

If you have an older or less powerful computer, turning off some visual effects in Windows 10 can make a big difference. It can free up system resources and make your computer run faster²⁵. By giving up some of the fancy visual stuff, like window animations and transparency effects, your system can work better²⁵.

One important step is to turn off transparency effects in Windows 10. This includes the Start menu, Taskbar, and Action Center²⁵. Doing this can make your system work less hard, which means it runs faster, especially on older computers²⁵.

Also, turning off effects like shadows and animations helps with windows 10 performance optimization and resource management²⁵. With less visual stuff to handle, your system can focus more on what you need it to do. This makes your computer run faster and more smoothly²⁵.

To turn off these effects, go to the “Performance Options” in the System Properties menu and uncheck what you don’t want²⁶. This easy step can really help with the windows 10 visual effects and performance optimization of your system²⁷.

Remember, giving up some visual appeal means your system works better. For many, the faster performance is a big win²⁵. By finding the right balance between looks and resource management, you can make the most out of your Windows 10 experience²⁷.

“Disabling unnecessary visual effects and animations can significantly improve system performance, especially on older or lower-powered hardware.”

Keep Windows 10 Updated

Keeping your Windows 10 system up-to-date is key to its security and reliability²⁸. Updates bring bug fixes, performance boosts, and security patches to protect against cyber threats²⁸. Yet, turning off updates might make your system more stable for some, especially if new updates don’t work well with their setup²⁸.

Updates might need your system to restart, which can be a hassle²⁸. But they’re crucial for making your computer run better and faster²⁸. Tools like NinjaOne can help manage updates and keep you in control²⁸.

Don’t disable Windows updates permanently, as it can expose your system to security risks²⁸. Instead, try stopping the Windows Update service or adjust Group Policy settings to manage updates as needed²⁸.

With Windows 10’s end-of-support date on October 14, 2025, staying informed is vital²⁹. Upgrading to Windows 11 might not be an option for everyone due to hardware issues²⁹. But, you can consider Extended Security Updates (ESUs) or upgrade older hardware²⁹.

By keeping your Windows 10 updated, you keep your device secure, reliable, and running smoothly²⁸. Finding the right balance in managing updates is crucial for a productive and safe computing experience²⁸.

For those who want more control over updates, a specific tool can be helpful³⁰. It lets you turn off and on automatic Windows Updates while keeping your antivirus current³⁰. This tool is regularly updated, digitally signed, and supports script-based automation³⁰.

Feature	Description
Supported Windows Versions	Windows 7 to Windows 1130
Digital Signature	SHA-256 code signing certificate30
Setup File Size	Approximately 56 MB30
Install Size	Around 20 MB30
Last Update	May 5, 202330
License Type	Shareware30

“Balancing control over updates and system security is essential for maintaining a productive and protected computing experience.”

Conclusion

This article has given you key tips to make your Windows 10 run better³¹. By getting rid of unnecessary programs, managing startup apps, and using disk cleanup tools, you can make your system faster and more efficient³¹. These steps help both new and old computers run smoother, making Windows 10 more enjoyable for everyone³¹.

Microsoft is always making Windows 10 better³², with regular updates and integration with Microsoft Office and other services³¹. Even though upgrading might cost money at first³¹, the benefits and value over time make it a smart choice for improving your Windows 10 experience³¹.

By using the tips from this article, you can make the most out of your Windows 10 system³¹. These tips are great for both power users and casual users, helping you get better performance and a smoother experience³¹.

FAQ

What is Windows 10 and how can I improve its performance?

Windows 10 is a popular operating system from Microsoft. Many users want to make it run better for a smoother experience. This article will give you key tips to boost Windows 10’s performance. You’ll learn how to remove unwanted software and upgrade your hardware.

How can I identify and uninstall bloatware or crapware on my Windows 10 system?

Many Windows 10 computers come with extra software you don’t need, called bloatware or crapware. To make your system run better, find and remove these apps. You can do this through the Programs and Features section in Windows 10.

How can I manage startup programs effectively in Windows 10?

Too many programs starting up can slow down your Windows 10. Use the updated Task Manager to see which ones start automatically. Then, disable any you don’t need, so only important apps start when you turn on your computer.

How can I utilize the Disk Cleanup utility in Windows 10 to improve system performance?

The Disk Cleanup utility in Windows 10 helps remove files you don’t need, like temporary internet files and system junk. Using it can free up space on your hard drive and make your system run faster.

How can upgrading the RAM in my Windows 10 system improve performance?

Upgrading your RAM can greatly improve how Windows 10 works. It helps with tasks that use a lot of memory, making your system faster and more efficient.

What are the advantages of replacing a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) with a solid-state drive (SSD) in a Windows 10 system?

Switching from a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) to a solid-state drive (SSD) can make your Windows 10 system much faster. SSDs access data quicker and start up faster, making your computer more responsive.

How can I regularly scan my Windows 10 system for malware and viruses to maintain optimal performance?

Keeping your Windows 10 safe from malware and viruses is key to good performance. Use Windows Defender or other antivirus programs regularly to scan for threats and keep your system secure.

How can adjusting the power settings in Windows 10 impact system performance?

Changing your power settings in Windows 10 can make your system run faster. Try setting it to “High Performance” or “Best Performance” to use more power for speed, not saving energy.

How can I use the built-in Windows troubleshooters to identify and resolve performance issues?

Running Windows troubleshooters can help fix problems that slow you down. These tools are built into Windows 10 and can find and fix common issues, making your system run smoother.

How can disabling visual effects in Windows 10 improve system performance?

If your computer is old or not very powerful, turning off some visual effects in Windows 10 can help. This includes things like animations and themes, which use up system resources.

Why is it important to keep Windows 10 up to date?

Keeping Windows 10 updated is crucial for its performance and security. Updates often bring performance boosts and fix bugs. Always check for updates and install them to keep your system running well.

Source Links

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