To boost performance on older or low-end PCs, adjusting a few Windows settings can make a significant difference. These changes enable your hardware to focus on essential tasks, ensuring a smoother experience.
Adjusting Power and Startup
Windows uses a Balanced power plan by default to conserve energy. On desktop systems, or where power use isn’t an issue, switching to the High performance plan can reduce throttling and speed up CPU and storage response times. Navigate via Control Panel > Power Options to make this change.
Many programs automatically add themselves to the startup list, consuming unnecessary CPU and RAM. To disable them, open Task Manager using Ctrl+Shift+Esc, switch to the Startup tab, and turn off non-essential programs. If uncertain about an application, check its properties or search online for more information.
Managing Storage and Background Apps
Drives with ample free space perform more efficiently. Utilize the Storage Sense feature by navigating to Settings > System > Storage to clear temporary files and other unnecessary data. Aim for approximately 10% free space remaining on your drives. Avoid auto-deleting from the Downloads folder if you store files there.
Background apps can drain system resources needlessly. Check your installed apps under Settings > Apps, go to Advanced options for each, and set the background app permissions to Never for unused apps running in the background.
Optimizing Search and Update Settings
Windows Search can be more efficient by limiting index locations. Adjust these via Settings > Privacy & security > Search. Select either Classic under Find my files or exclude large, unnecessary folders to quicken search outcomes.
Delivery Optimization in Windows allows sharing updates with other devices. To modify or disable this, go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Delivery Optimization. Opt for sharing only with local network devices or turn off the feature to prevent excess bandwidth usage.
These setting adjustments target various system functions, potentially improving overall responsiveness without additional hardware upgrades.
