Having a slow Windows 10 PC can be frustrating: long boot times, sluggish apps, and delays. Fortunately, you can boost your PC’s speed by using several built-in features and small adjustments. Here are 8 proven methods to make Windows 10 run better and faster.
1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup tab.
- Review the list and disable programs you don’t need at startup (right-click → Disable).
2. Remove Bloatware & Unused Applications
Steps:
- Open Settings → Apps → Apps & features.
- Sort by size or usage.
- Uninstall apps you never use or those that came preinstalled.
3. Free Up Disk Space
Steps:
- Run Disk Cleanup (search “Disk Cleanup” in Start menu).
- Select drive C:, check items like “Temporary files,” “Recycle Bin,” “Delivery Optimization Files.”
- Click Clean up system files for more options.
4. Optimize Hard Drive or Enable TRIM (for SSDs)
Steps:
- For HDDs: Search “Defragment and Optimize Drives,” then optimize the drive.
- For SSDs: Ensure TRIM is enabled via PowerShell: run
fsutil behavior query DisableDeleteNotify. If it returns 0, TRIM is enabled.
5. Adjust Visual Effects for Best Performance
Steps:
- Right-click This PC → Properties → Advanced system settings → Performance Settings.
- Choose “Adjust for best performance” or manually disable animations, shadows, etc.
6. Update Windows & Device Drivers
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update, check for updates.
- Then open Device Manager, expand devices (graphics, chipset), right-click → Update driver.
7. Scan for Malware and Clean Registry
Steps:
- Use Windows Security (built-in antivirus) to run full scan.
- Consider reputable tools like Malwarebytes for extra checking.
- Be cautious with registry cleaners; back up registry first if using one.
8. Increase Virtual Memory / Adjust Page File
Steps:
- Open System → Advanced system settings → Performance → Settings → Advanced tab.
- Under Virtual Memory, click Change, uncheck “Automatically manage,” set a custom size: initial size = 1.5× your RAM, maximum = 3×.
Tips for Long-Term Speed Maintenance
- Regularly reboot your PC (once every few days).
- Keep Windows, drivers, and apps updated.
- Avoid installing unnecessary software.
- Use lightweight antivirus or security tools.
- Clean dust inside your PC case (hardware overheating can slow performance).
Conclusion
By applying these 8 proven methods, you can significantly improve your Windows 10 PC’s speed and responsiveness. Some tweaks (like disabling startup programs or freeing space) yield immediate benefits, while others maintain performance over time. Adopt these practices, and your computer will feel smoother and more efficient.