After installing Windows 11, your computer is slow: Reasons and solutions

Last update: 09/05/2025

Have you noticed your PC running slower since installing Windows 11? You're not alone. Many users have noted with concern a considerable decrease in the performance of your equipmentIf your computer is running slow after installing Windows 11, here's why and what you can do to fix it.

After installing Windows 11, the computer is slow: Reasons

After installing Windows 11 the computer is slow

With the end of support for Windows 10 just around the corner, many users have decided to make the jump to Windows 11. While they have managed to update their computer to the latest version, the result has not been as expectedIn many cases, after installing Windows 11, the computer runs slow and the user experience is terrible. Why?

The reasons are many and varied: from insufficient hardware to incorrect configurations. If the version change did not do any good to your PC, it's almost certainly due to a hardware deficiency. Add to this unnecessary processes, too many startup applications, or outdated drivers, and the slowness will be exasperating. Let's take a closer look at the reasons why your computer is running slow after installing Windows 11.

Insufficient minimum requirements

That your computer was able to receive Windows 11 is great, but don't declare victory just yet. Just because it meets the minimum requirements for installing Windows 11 doesn't mean you'll enjoy a good user experience. The reality is that Many of the compatible devices are only enough to boot the system, but fall short in the performance department..

And what are the minimum requirements to install Windows 11What is the recommended level for an optimal, or at least decent, user experience? If your computer is running slow after installing Windows 11, check if it meets the following criteria: minimum specifications:

  • Processor: Compatible 64-bit CPU (8th Gen Intel or AMD Ryzen 2000), at least 1 GHz with dual cores.
  • 4 GB of RAM and an HDD with at least 64 GB available.
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If you have a computer with these characteristics, it is very likely that Windows 11 will experience a drop in performanceThis is especially true if you open multiple programs at the same time or run demanding processes.

What hard drive do you have? HDD or SSD?

If your PC uses a mechanical hard drive as primary storage, it's understandable that Windows 11 might be slow. This operating system is optimized to run on SSD drives, which offer faster read and write speeds. Mechanical hard drives (HDDs), on the other hand, cannot handle multiple applications or run the operating system as quickly as desired.

Unnecessary processes and background applications

If your computer is running slow after installing Windows 11, the cause may be unnecessary processes and apps running in the background. Windows 11 is great, but It is full of applications, services and processes that do nothing but consume resources.This can negatively affect your computer's performance, especially if it's running below the minimum requirements.

Outdated or incompatible drivers

Another possible reason your computer is running slow after installing Windows 11 has to do with your hardware drivers. Remember, when you install a new operating system, Some drivers may become obsolete or not fully compatibleThis is especially common in graphics cards or audio components.

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After installing Windows 11, your computer is slow: Solutions

Windows 11 faster

Once you know the reasons, it's easier to find solutions if your computer is running slow after installing Windows 11. Make some adjustments or apply small improvements On hardware, this may be enough to enjoy a smoother user experience. And on devices that barely meet the minimum requirements, it's a good idea to apply all the measures we'll mention below.

Update key components

Upgrading your hardware is always a good idea, especially if you've just upgraded to Windows 11 and are experiencing slowness. Components you should replace to improve your computer's performance include: RAM and storage driveIf you only have 4GB of RAM, it's best to increase it to 8GB or 16GB to optimize process execution.

In the case of storage, replace the mechanical hard drive (HDD) with an SSD will completely transform the performance of Windows 11. You'll see significant improvements in app loading times, system startup, and overall speed. And if the slowness persists, it's time to try the following measures.

Control startup applications

If your computer takes too long to boot, try disabling some startup applications. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Go to the Home tab.
  3. Disable programs you don't need to run at startup, prioritizing those with the greatest impact.

Disable unnecessary processes

When there are a lot of processes running in the background, it's inevitable that Windows 11 will run slowly, especially if you have low RAM. In these cases, the best thing you can do is disable background apps by going to Settings – System – Background Apps.

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Free up disk space if your computer is slow after installing Windows 11

free up space windows

Freeing up disk space can be helpful if your computer is running slow after installing Windows 11. The more storage space you have, the better your computer will perform. To clear the junk, click Windows + R, type %temp% and delete temporary files. You can also use native tools like Microsoft PC Manager to optimize Windows 11, clear cache and speed up its performance.

Turn off visual effects and transparencies

Nothing speeds up Windows 11 better than disabling visual effects and transparencies. The interface won't look its best, but it will feel smoother and more fluid. To disable animations and transparencies, click Start, write Performance options, go to the tab Visual effects and select Adjust for better performance.

Keep Windows and its drivers updated

Finally, make sure your operating system and drivers for your cards and peripherals are up to date. To do this, you can use Windows Update to check for and install the latest Windows 11 updates. On the other hand, Open the Device administrator and check for any that are accompanied by a warning icon (!). Right-click on it and select Update Driver. You can also download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website (Intel, AMD, NVIDIA, etc.).