Speed Up a Slow Windows Computer
Use safe built-in Windows tools to reduce startup time, free storage, install updates, and identify demanding applications.
Updated Aug 4, 2026
Step 1
Restart and install updates
Restart the computer before changing settings. Then open Settings, select Windows Update, install available updates, and restart again when prompted.
Step 2
Review startup applications
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Select Startup apps and disable nonessential applications with a high startup impact. Keep security and hardware utilities enabled.
Step 3
Free storage space
Open Settings, then System and Storage. Use Temporary files to remove safe-to-delete items. Keep at least 15 percent of the system drive free so Windows can update and work efficiently.
Step 4
Find resource-heavy software
In Task Manager, select Processes and sort by CPU or Memory. If one application continually uses excessive resources, update it, close unused tabs or documents, or reinstall it from a trusted source.