Charles Esther
Most new Windows laptops come preloaded with Windows 11, but they often include many unwanted apps and services running in the background.
These programs can gradually slow down your device by consuming CPU, memory, and disk space.
To improve performance, open the Task Manager by clicking the Start button, then sort processes by resource usage to identify heavy users.
Before disabling or uninstalling anything, research each process to avoid turning off essential system functions.
If the app isn’t critical to Windows, right-click it and select “Disable” or uninstall the program if unnecessary.
Turn Off Extra Visual Effects for Better Speed
Windows includes various visual effects like window animations, shadows, and smooth transitions that enhance the look and feel of the interface.
However, these effects can tax your CPU and GPU, especially on lower-end hardware, slowing down your PC.
To turn off these effects, right-click the Start menu, navigate to System > About, and click “Advanced system settings.”
In the Performance section under the Advanced tab, select “Settings” and choose “Adjust for Best Performance” or customize which effects to disable.
Stop Annoying Pop-Ups and Suggestions
Windows often displays tips, feature suggestions, and notifications that many users find distracting.
Disabling these pop-ups can make using your computer less irritating and reduce background processes.
To turn them off, open Settings > System > Notifications.
Scroll down to “Additional Settings” and uncheck the unwanted options.
You can also disable notifications from specific apps by toggling them off individually.
Adjust Privacy Settings to Protect Your Data
Windows collects data on device usage, including location and app activity, which may feel intrusive to some users.
When setting up a new PC, it’s wise to review privacy settings to control what information is shared with Microsoft.
Head to Settings > Privacy and Security > Diagnostics & Feedback to modify diagnostic data preferences.
Also, under the “General” tab, turn off personalized ad tracking by disabling the advertising ID option.
Review app permissions for access to sensitive data like your location, camera, and microphone, and revoke permissions that aren’t necessary.
Disable Clipboard History to Enhance Privacy
Clipboard History in Windows saves everything you copy, from text to images, making it easy to access later.
However, this feature poses privacy risks if others use your device and can see sensitive copied content.
To turn off Clipboard History, open Settings > System > Clipboard, then toggle off “Clipboard history.”
While this prevents data from being saved, you’ll lose the convenience of accessing past copied items.
Alternatively, keep it enabled during use but clear the history and disable it before sharing your device.
Final Thoughts on Setting Up a New Windows PC
Getting a new Windows laptop or PC involves more than just logging in for the first time.
To maintain speed, safeguard your privacy, and avoid constant interruptions, adjusting these key settings is essential.
Implementing these tweaks has improved my computing experience, and I recommend anyone with a new device to consider them.
