Windows 11 Slow After Update? Fix Performance Issues

Windows 11 Slow After Update? 

Did your Windows 11 PC become slow after a recent update?
Many users notice slower startup, lag, or freezing right after Windows updates.

👉 This is very common
👉 And in most cases, it’s fixable without reinstalling Windows

Follow the steps below in order.

Why Windows 11 Becomes Slow After an Update

After updates, Windows runs background processes.

Common reasons include:

• Background indexing and optimization

• Driver compatibility issues

• Startup apps re-enabled

• Power settings changed

• Temporary update files using system resources

💡 These issues are usually software-related.

⚡ Quick Check (Do This First)

Before advanced fixes:

• Restart your PC once

• Wait 10–15 minutes after login

• Check if slowdown continues

If yes, continue below.

✅ Fix 1: Disable Startup Apps (Very Important)

Too many startup apps slow down Windows.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Task Manager

2. Open Startup apps tab

3. Disable apps you don’t need at startup

4. Restart your PC

👉 This often gives an instant speed boost.

✅ Fix 2: Check Power Mode

Updates sometimes reset power settings.

1. Settings → System → Power & battery

2. Set Power mode to Best performance (or Balanced on laptops)

Low power modes can reduce performance.

✅ Fix 3: Clean Temporary Files

Windows update files can slow the system.

1. Settings → System → Storage

2. Click Temporary files

3. Select safe items (cache, update cleanup)

4. Click Remove files

This frees space and improves speed.

✅ Fix 4: Update or Reinstall Drivers

Outdated drivers cause lag.

1. Right-click Start → Device Manager

2. Update graphics and chipset drivers

3. Restart your PC

Graphics drivers are especially important for smooth performance.

✅ Fix 5: Turn Off Visual Effects

Windows animations use system resources.

1. Search Performance

2. Open Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows

3. Choose Adjust for best performance
   (or custom – turn off animations only)

This improves responsiveness on older PCs.

✅ Fix 6: Check Background Apps

Some apps run silently.

1. Settings → Apps → Installed apps

2. Select unused apps

3. Set background permissions to Never

This reduces CPU and RAM usage.

✅ Fix 7: Scan for System Issues

Corrupted files can cause slowdown.

1. Open Command Prompt as admin

2. Run:

   sfc /scannow

3. Wait until scan completes

4. Restart PC

This fixes hidden system problems.

❓ How Long Does Slowness Last After a Windows Update?

For most users:

• 1–3 days after update

• Performance improves automatically

If it continues beyond a week, fixes are recommended.

❓ Should I Uninstall the Update?

Usually no.

Updates improve:

• Security

• Stability

Only uninstall updates if problems are severe and widespread.

❓ Is Slow Performance a Hardware Issue?

Usually not.

If:

• PC worked fine before update

• Slowness started suddenly

Then it’s almost always software-related.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Windows 11 slow after update?

Because Windows runs background tasks and drivers may not be optimized yet.

Does disabling startup apps help?

Yes, it’s one of the most effective fixes.

Will future updates fix this issue?

Yes. Microsoft often improves performance in later updates.

Do I need to reset Windows?

No. Resetting Windows is rarely needed for performance issues.

Final Thoughts

A slow Windows 11 PC after update is frustrating, but usually temporary. Disabling startup apps, cleaning files, and updating drivers solve most problems.

👉 Try the fixes above before considering drastic steps.