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Automatic updates are a built-in feature of Windows designed to keep your system secure and up to date. However, there are cases where you may want to block or delay Windows updates—especially in business environments, during software testing, or when a specific update causes compatibility issues. One of the most effective ways to control Windows updates is by using the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc). I’ve used this method multiple times in enterprise setups and on personal machines to prevent updates from interfering with critical workflows.

This article explains how to block Windows updates using Group Policy, covering all the necessary steps with detailed explanations.

What Is Group Policy in Windows?

Group Policy Editor is a built-in tool in Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions. It allows administrators and power users to control the behavior of system components using configurable policies.

With Group Policy, you can:

• Block automatic updates
• Defer feature or quality updates
• Control restart behavior
• Prevent Windows from downloading drivers automatically

This method is not available in Windows Home Edition, unless you manually enable gpedit via unofficial scripts (not recommended due to stability and support concerns).

When Should You Block Windows Updates?

From my experience, you may want to disable updates in cases like:

• Preventing driver conflicts during testing
• Avoiding forced reboots during critical operations
• Ensuring version stability on production machines
• Troubleshooting issues caused by a recent Windows update

Blocking updates doesn’t mean ignoring them forever. You can enable updates manually when needed.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Block Windows Updates Using Group Policy

Step 1: Open Group Policy Editor

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog
2. Type: gpedit.msc
3. Press Enter
4. The Local Group Policy Editor window will open

You must be signed in as an administrator to access and edit policies.

Step 2: Navigate to the Windows Update Policy Path

In the left panel, expand the following:

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Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Manage updates offered from Windows Update

You may also find relevant settings directly under:

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Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update

Take your time to review the available options carefully.

Step 3: Block Automatic Updates

This is the most direct method to stop Windows from installing updates automatically.

1. Double-click on Configure Automatic Updates
2. In the window that appears:

• Select Disabled
• Click Apply, then OK

This setting tells Windows not to check, download, or install updates automatically.

If you prefer to allow updates manually, you can instead choose:

• Enabled
• Under “Configure automatic updating,” choose: Notify for download and auto install

This allows you to control when updates are downloaded and installed.

Step 4: Additional Policy Settings to Consider

Here are other useful policies I regularly configure to tighten control:

Do not include drivers with Windows Updates

• Path:
  Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Do not include drivers with Windows Updates
• Double-click it > Set to Enabled

This prevents Windows from updating device drivers automatically, which is useful for systems that rely on stable or vendor-specific drivers.

Select when Preview Builds and Feature Updates are received

• Double-click this policy
• Set to Enabled
• Choose number of days to defer feature updates (e.g., 365)

This delays major version upgrades like Windows 11 23H2 for a defined period.

Select when Quality Updates are received

• Set to Enabled
• Delay monthly cumulative updates by a set number of days (e.g., 30)

This helps you avoid the risks of newly released patches.

No auto-restart with logged on users for scheduled automatic updates installations

• Enable this policy to stop automatic restarts when users are logged in

It ensures that Windows won’t reboot the system unexpectedly while someone is working.

Step 5: Apply and Exit

Once you’ve configured the necessary policies:

1. Close the Group Policy Editor
2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
3. Run the following command to apply changes:

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gpupdate /force

This refreshes your group policies without requiring a restart.

Step 6: Verify That Updates Are Blocked

You can confirm the change through the Settings app:

1. Open Settings > Windows Update
2. Click Check for updates

If your policies are correctly configured, you may see a message like “Some settings are managed by your organization” and updates will no longer be downloaded or installed automatically.

Alternatively, run this command in PowerShell to check the policy status:

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Get-WindowsUpdatePolicy

What Happens After Blocking Updates?

• Windows will no longer download updates unless manually triggered
• Update notifications may disappear
• Microsoft Defender updates may continue (depending on separate settings)

You can manually check for updates anytime through:
Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates

Blocking updates does not remove existing updates. It only stops new ones from being applied automatically.

How to Re-Enable Windows Updates via Group Policy

To reverse the change:

1. Open gpedit.msc
2. Navigate to Configure Automatic Updates
3. Set it back to Not Configured or Enabled (with a preferred update option)
4. Apply and force update using:

cmd

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gpupdate /force

This will restore normal update behavior.

Cautions and Best Practices

• Do not block updates permanently. Regular security patches are important.
• Review policies periodically, especially after major system upgrades.
• Test updates in virtual machines or non-production systems if you manage critical environments.
• Use WSUS (Windows Server Update Services) or Intune for enterprise-grade update control.

Conclusion

Blocking Windows updates using Group Policy is a safe and effective way to manage system stability, especially in business or development environments. It gives you full control over when and how updates are installed—without relying on third-party tools or risky registry hacks.

I’ve used this method on dozens of systems and workstations to maintain a predictable environment. With the right policies configured, you can avoid unwanted reboots, unstable driver updates, or incompatible feature releases—while keeping the flexibility to update when it’s convenient.

The taskbar is a core component of the Windows user interface, providing quick access to apps, system features, and notifications. Windows 11 introduced significant design changes to the taskbar, along with new customization options. This guide will show you how to fully customize the taskbar in Windows 11 to suit your workflow and personal preferences.

Why Customize the Windows 11 Taskbar?

Customizing the taskbar helps you:

• Access frequently used apps faster.
• Keep your workspace organized.
• Improve productivity with tailored shortcuts.
• Personalize the look and feel of your desktop.

Step 1: Open Taskbar Settings

• Right-click on an empty area of the taskbar.
• Select Taskbar settings from the context menu.
• The Settings app will open directly to the Taskbar customization page.

Step 2: Customize Taskbar Items

In the Taskbar settings, the first section is Taskbar items. Here you can toggle system icons on or off:

• Search: Shows or hides the search bar/icon.
• Task view: Displays virtual desktops and timeline.
• Widgets: Opens the news and interests panel.
• Chat: Enables Microsoft Teams chat integration.

Toggle these items on or off depending on which you use regularly.

Step 3: Customize Taskbar Corner Icons

The Taskbar corner icons section lets you manage icons that appear on the right corner (system tray) such as:

• Pen menu (if you have a stylus).
• Touch keyboard.
• Virtual touchpad.

Enable or disable these icons to reduce clutter or add quick access tools.

Step 4: Customize Taskbar Corner Overflow

Click on Taskbar corner overflow to manage which icons show directly on the taskbar and which hide behind the “^” menu.

• Enable frequently used app icons to be always visible.
• Disable rarely used icons to hide them but keep them accessible.

Step 5: Adjust Taskbar Alignment

By default, Windows 11 centers taskbar icons. If you prefer the classic left alignment:

• Scroll down to Taskbar behaviors.
• Find Taskbar alignment and select Left from the dropdown menu.

Your Start button and app icons will shift to the left side.

Step 6: Show or Hide Badges on Taskbar Apps

Badges indicate notifications or new content for apps:

• In Taskbar behaviors, toggle Show badges (unread messages counter) on taskbar apps on or off based on your preference.

Step 7: Automatically Hide the Taskbar

For a cleaner desktop:

• Still under Taskbar behaviors, enable Automatically hide the taskbar.
• The taskbar will slide out of view when not in use and appear when you move the mouse to the bottom.

Step 8: Pin and Unpin Apps on the Taskbar

To add or remove app shortcuts:

• To pin an app, open the app, right-click its icon on the taskbar, and select Pin to taskbar.
• To unpin, right-click the app icon and choose Unpin from taskbar.

This helps you access favorite apps quickly.

Step 9: Use Taskbar Toolbars (Limited in Windows 11)

Unlike Windows 10, Windows 11 does not natively support traditional toolbars like Quick Launch. However, you can add the Desktop folder to the taskbar:

• Right-click on the taskbar, select Toolbars > New toolbar.
• Choose the Desktop folder or another folder you want quick access to.

Step 10: Change Taskbar Color and Transparency

Taskbar color settings are linked to the overall Windows theme:

• Go to Settings > Personalization > Colors.
• Choose between Light, Dark, or Custom mode.
• Scroll down to Transparency effects and toggle on or off to make the taskbar semi-transparent.

Step 11: Troubleshooting Taskbar Issues

If you experience issues such as taskbar freezing or icons missing:

• Restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
• Check for Windows updates under Settings > Windows Update.
• Use system tools like System File Checker for corruption issues.

My Personal Tips

Regularly reviewing and customizing your taskbar improves workflow. For example, centering icons may look modern but left alignment suits multitasking better. I prefer hiding rarely used system icons to declutter and pinning apps I use daily for fast access.

Conclusion

Customizing the taskbar in Windows 11 is straightforward but powerful. From changing alignment to managing which icons show and tweaking transparency, these options let you tailor your workspace. Following this guide ensures you get the most out of your taskbar setup, enhancing both aesthetics and productivity.

Using keyboard shortcuts in Windows can dramatically improve productivity. While many default shortcuts already exist—like Ctrl + C for copy or Alt + Tab to switch windows—you can also create custom keyboard shortcuts for launching programs, opening folders, or executing scripts.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to create custom keyboard shortcuts in Windows using built-in methods and trusted third-party tools. This step-by-step article is based on my personal experience setting up shortcuts on Windows 10 and Windows 11, combined with verified information from reliable sources.

If you frequently open the same apps or perform repetitive actions, custom shortcuts can save you clicks and time.

What You Need to Know Before You Begin

• You can create shortcuts for applications, folders, and files.
• Windows has built-in support for assigning hotkeys to desktop shortcuts.
• You can use third-party tools like AutoHotKey for more advanced customization.
• Shortcuts must use a combination of Ctrl, Alt, or Shift with a letter or number.

Now, let’s get started with the simplest method first.

Method 1: Create Custom Shortcuts Using Desktop Shortcut Properties

This is the easiest and most reliable way to create custom keyboard shortcuts in Windows.

Step 1: Create a Desktop Shortcut

1. Right-click on your desktop.
2. Select New > Shortcut.
3. In the location field, type the path to the file, folder, or app.
   For example:
   • C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe
   • Or browse manually by clicking Browse.
4. Click Next, name the shortcut, and click Finish.

Step 2: Assign a Keyboard Shortcut

1. Right-click on the shortcut you just created.
2. Select Properties.
3. In the Shortcut tab, click on the Shortcut key field.
4. Press the key combination you want to use (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + C).
5. Click Apply, then OK.

Your custom shortcut is now active. Test it by pressing the key combination. It should launch the associated file, folder, or application instantly.

Note: Windows automatically prefixes the shortcut with Ctrl + Alt. You cannot remove that prefix using this method.

Method 2: Use Taskbar Shortcuts (Limited Customization)

If the program is pinned to the taskbar, you can open it using Windows key + number, based on its position.

Example:

• First item on the taskbar: Win + 1
• Second item: Win + 2

This isn’t a custom shortcut per se, but it’s useful for quick access.

Method 3: Use Windows Settings to Assign Shortcuts (For Accessibility Tools)

Some Windows utilities like Magnifier, Narrator, and Snipping Tool allow built-in shortcut customization.

Example: Assign shortcut to Snipping Tool

1. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.
2. Enable the shortcut for Snipping Tool or other accessibility tools.
3. Follow on-screen instructions.

These shortcuts are often predefined by Windows, but in some cases you can change them in Registry Editor or using scripting tools.

Method 4: Use AutoHotKey for Advanced Shortcuts

If you want more control—like automating tasks, running scripts, or assigning shortcuts without desktop icons—AutoHotKey is a powerful tool.

Step 1: Download and Install AutoHotKey

• Visit autohotkey.com
• Download and install the latest version.

Step 2: Create a New Script

1. Right-click on your desktop.
2. Choose New > AutoHotKey Script.
3. Name the file something like MyShortcuts.ahk.

Step 3: Edit the Script

1. Right-click the script and select Edit Script.
2. Add a line like:

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^!c::Run “C:\Program Files\Google\Chrome\Application\chrome.exe”

This line means Ctrl + Alt + C will open Chrome.

1. Save and close the file.
2. Double-click the .ahk file to run it. The shortcut is now active.

You can add as many shortcuts as you like in one script.

To make it permanent:

• Add the script to Startup folder so it runs every time Windows starts.

Method 5: Use Windows Registry Editor (Advanced Users Only)

Registry editing allows deep-level customization, but it’s risky and not recommended for casual users. You can bind custom key combinations to specific Windows functions using registry tweaks, but this process is manual and error-prone.

Unless you’re experienced, it’s better to stick with AutoHotKey or shortcut properties.

How to Disable or Remove Custom Keyboard Shortcuts

For Shortcut Properties:

1. Right-click the desktop shortcut.
2. Go to Properties > Shortcut tab.
3. Clear the Shortcut key field.
4. Click Apply and then OK.

For AutoHotKey:

1. Exit the script from the taskbar icon.
2. Or delete the .ahk file to remove all bindings.

Best Practices for Creating Shortcuts

• Use combinations that don’t conflict with system shortcuts (avoid Ctrl + C, Alt + F4).
• Keep it consistent. For example, use Ctrl + Alt + W for web apps.
• Avoid overly complex combinations.
• Document your shortcuts if you’re using many, especially with AutoHotKey.

My Personal Experience with Custom Shortcuts

I rely on custom shortcuts daily to launch apps like Notepad++, Chrome, and my Downloads folder. Using AutoHotKey, I’ve even created shortcuts for inserting predefined text while writing or coding.

Once set up, these shortcuts make tasks smoother and reduce mouse reliance. I always recommend starting with basic desktop shortcut methods before moving to scripting tools. It’s a habit that builds up speed over time.

Use Cases for Custom Shortcuts

• Launch a frequently used app (e.g., Photoshop, Chrome).
• Open a specific folder (e.g., Project folder).
• Run a batch file or PowerShell script.
• Paste canned email responses using AutoHotKey.
• Open websites directly from a hotkey.

Conclusion

Creating custom keyboard shortcuts in Windows is a powerful way to improve workflow and efficiency. Whether you use the basic desktop method or advanced scripting via AutoHotKey, Windows gives you multiple options to tailor your experience.

Start small—assign shortcuts to the apps you open daily. Once you get comfortable, explore more powerful automation using scripts.

In my daily routine, custom shortcuts have become second nature. With just a few key presses, I can open tools, start tasks, or even paste full templates. This guide provides all you need to start building your own shortcut system that works for your needs.

Voice Typing in Windows 11 is a built-in feature that allows you to dictate text using your voice, eliminating the need for manual typing. This tool is particularly beneficial for users seeking hands-free interaction with their PC, whether for accessibility reasons or convenience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up and use Voice Typing effectively.

What Is Voice Typing in Windows 11?

Voice Typing is Windows 11’s integrated speech-to-text functionality, enabling users to input text by speaking. It’s powered by Microsoft’s online speech recognition services and works across various applications where text input is possible, such as Notepad, Microsoft Word, web browsers, and more.

Prerequisites for Using Voice Typing

Before you begin, ensure the following:

• Internet Connection: Voice Typing relies on online speech recognition, so a stable internet connection is necessary.
• Microphone: A working microphone is required. This can be built-in or external.
• Language Settings: Ensure that your preferred language is set up for speech recognition.

How to Enable and Use Voice Typing

Step 1: Open a Text Input Field

Click on any area where you can type text, such as a document, search bar, or text field in an application.

Step 2: Activate Voice Typing

• Using Keyboard Shortcut: Press Windows + H keys simultaneously.
• Using Touch Keyboard: If you’re on a touchscreen device, tap the microphone icon next to the spacebar on the touch keyboard.

A small Voice Typing toolbar will appear on the screen.

Step 3: Start Dictating

Once the toolbar indicates it’s listening, begin speaking clearly. Your speech will be transcribed into text in real-time.

Step 4: Stop Dictating

To stop Voice Typing, you can:

• Click the microphone icon on the Voice Typing toolbar.
• Press Windows + H again.

Customizing Voice Typing Settings

Click the settings (gear) icon on the Voice Typing toolbar to access customization options:

• Auto Punctuation: Toggle this on to allow Windows to insert punctuation marks automatically based on your speech patterns.
• Voice Typing Launcher: Enable this to have the Voice Typing toolbar appear automatically when you click on a text field.

Supported Languages

Voice Typing supports multiple languages, including:

• English (United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, India)
• French (France, Canada)
• German
• Spanish (Spain, Mexico)
• Chinese (Simplified, Traditional)

To switch languages:

• Click the language switcher on the taskbar.
• Press Windows + Spacebar to cycle through installed languages

Tips for Effective Voice Typing

• Speak Clearly: Articulate your words to improve recognition accuracy.
• Use Commands for Punctuation: Say “comma,” “period,” “question mark,” etc., to insert punctuation.
• Edit as Needed: Review the transcribed text and make corrections manually if necessary.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Voice Typing Not Activating: Ensure your microphone is connected and not muted. Check that online speech recognition is enabled in Settings > Privacy & security > Speech.
• Poor Recognition Accuracy: Background noise can affect performance. Try using a headset or moving to a quieter environment.
• Unsupported Language: Verify that your desired language is installed and set as the default input language.

Conclusion

Voice Typing in Windows 11 is a powerful tool that enhances productivity and accessibility. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently dictate text across various applications. Remember to speak clearly and utilize the customization options to tailor the experience to your needs.

Managing virtual desktops in Windows is a powerful way to organize your workspace, especially when juggling multiple projects or tasks. This feature allows you to create separate desktops for different activities, reducing clutter and enhancing focus. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, virtual desktops can streamline your workflow effectively.

What Are Virtual Desktops?

Virtual desktops enable you to create multiple, separate desktop environments on a single physical monitor. Each virtual desktop can host different applications and windows, allowing you to switch between tasks without overlapping windows. For instance, you can have one desktop for work-related applications and another for personal browsing or entertainment.

How to Create a Virtual Desktop

Using Task View:

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon on the taskbar.
   • Alternatively, press Windows + Tab on your keyboard.
2. Create a New Desktop:
   • In the Task View interface, click on New desktop.
   • A new virtual desktop will appear, and you can switch to it immediately.

Using Keyboard Shortcut:

• Press Windows + Ctrl + D to create and switch to a new virtual desktop instantly.

Switching Between Virtual Desktops

Using Task View:

• Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
• Select the desktop you want to switch to from the list of available desktops.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts:

• Press Windows + Ctrl + Left Arrow to move to the previous desktop.
• Press Windows + Ctrl + Right Arrow to move to the next desktop.

Using Touchpad Gestures (Windows 11):

• Swipe four fingers left or right on the touchpad to switch between desktops.

Renaming Virtual Desktops

Assigning meaningful names to your virtual desktops can help you stay organized.

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Rename Desktop:
   • Right-click on the desktop you want to rename.
   • Select Rename and enter the desired name.

Customizing Desktop Backgrounds (Windows 11)

In Windows 11, you can set different backgrounds for each virtual desktop to distinguish them visually.

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Change Background:
   • Right-click on the desktop thumbnail.
   • Select Choose background.
   • In the settings window, select a picture to set as the background for that desktop.

Note: Custom backgrounds are only supported when using pictures, not solid colors or slideshows.

Moving Windows Between Desktops

You can move open windows from one virtual desktop to another to better organize your tasks.Lifewire

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Move Window:
   • Right-click on the window you want to move.
   • Select Move to and choose the target desktop.

Alternatively, you can drag and drop the window to the desired desktop thumbnail in Task View.

Showing Windows on All Desktops

If you want a particular window to appear on all virtual desktops:

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Show on All Desktops:
   • Right-click on the window.
   • Select Show this window on all desktops.

To revert this setting, repeat the steps and uncheck the option.

Closing a Virtual Desktop

When you’re done with a virtual desktop, you can close it without losing your open applications.

1. Open Task View:
   • Click the Task View icon or press Windows + Tab.
2. Close Desktop:
   • Hover over the desktop you want to close.
   • Click the X button that appears.

Note: Closing a desktop moves its open windows to the previous desktop.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Virtual Desktops

• Create New Desktop: Windows + Ctrl + D
• Close Current Desktop: Windows + Ctrl + F4
• Switch Desktops: Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow
• Open Task View: Windows + Tab

Personal Experience

As someone who frequently multitasks between different projects, virtual desktops have been invaluable. I typically have one desktop dedicated to work-related applications like email and documents, another for research and browsing, and a third for communication tools. This separation helps me maintain focus and reduces the clutter on each desktop.

Conclusion

Virtual desktops in Windows are a versatile tool for enhancing productivity and organization. By effectively utilizing this feature, you can create distinct workspaces tailored to your specific tasks, leading to a more streamlined and efficient workflow.

Experiencing high CPU usage in Windows Task Manager can lead to sluggish performance, unresponsive applications, and overheating. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to identify and resolve high CPU usage issues in Windows 11.

Understanding High CPU Usage

High CPU usage indicates that your computer’s processor is working at or near its maximum capacity. Common causes include:

• Background processes: Unnecessary applications running in the background.
• Malware: Malicious software consuming system resources.
• Outdated drivers: Drivers that are incompatible or outdated.
• System services: Windows services like SysMain or Windows Search.
• Antivirus software: Security programs performing intensive scans.

Step-by-Step Solutions

1. Identify Resource-Intensive Processes

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click on the Processes tab.
3. Click the CPU column header to sort processes by CPU usage.
4. Identify processes consuming high CPU resources.
5. Right-click on the process and select End task if it’s unnecessary.

Note: Be cautious when ending system processes, as this may cause instability.

2. Restart Your Computer

A simple restart can resolve temporary issues causing high CPU usage.

Steps:

1. Click on the Start menu.
2. Select Power > Restart.

3. Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated software can lead to performance issues.

Update Windows:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

Update Drivers:

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand categories and right-click on devices to select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

4. Scan for Malware

Malware can cause high CPU usage by running unwanted processes.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Privacy & security > Windows Security.
3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
4. Select Quick scan or Full scan for a comprehensive check.

5. Disable Background Apps

Limiting background apps can free up CPU resources.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Apps & features.
3. Click on the three dots next to an app and select Advanced options.
4. Under Background apps permissions, choose Never.

6. Adjust Power Settings

Optimizing power settings can reduce CPU usage.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to System > Power & battery.
3. Click on Power mode and select Best performance.

Advanced Adjustment:

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
2. Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
3. Click on Change plan settings next to your selected plan.
4. Click on Change advanced power settings.
5. Expand Processor power management and set Maximum processor state to 90%.

7. Disable SysMain Service

SysMain (formerly Superfetch) can cause high CPU usage.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down and double-click on SysMain.
3. Click Stop to halt the service.
4. Set Startup type to Disabled.
5. Click OK to apply changes.

8. Check for Windows Search Issues

Windows Search indexing can consume CPU resources.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Locate Windows Search and double-click it.
3. Click Stop to halt the service.
4. Set Startup type to Manual or Disabled.
5. Click OK to apply changes.

9. Investigate System Interrupts

High CPU usage by “System Interrupts” may indicate hardware issues.

Steps:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Check for devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
3. Update or disable problematic drivers.
4. Consider disconnecting external devices to identify the cause.

10. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help identify software conflicts.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Under the General tab, select Selective startup and uncheck Load startup items.
3. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
4. Click OK and restart your computer.

Conclusion

High CPU usage in Windows 11 can stem from various sources, including background processes, malware, and system services. By systematically identifying and addressing these issues, you can optimize your system’s performance and ensure a smoother computing experience.

Need to install a fresh copy of Windows 10 or Windows 11, troubleshoot serious system issues, or perform an upgrade on a new or existing PC in April 2025? Creating a bootable USB drive with Windows installation media is a fundamental step. The official Microsoft Media Creation Tool is the easiest and most reliable way to do this. I’ve personally used this tool countless times to set up and repair Windows systems, and this guide will walk you through the detailed process on how to create a bootable USB for Windows installation, ensuring you have a reliable installation tool ready.

Important Note: This guide will cover using the official Microsoft Media Creation Tool for both Windows 10 and Windows 11, as they are the most common operating systems in April 2025. You will need a USB flash drive with at least 8GB of storage space, and all data on the USB drive will be erased during this process. Ensure you back up any important data from the USB drive before starting.

Step 1: Downloading the Appropriate Media Creation Tool (Getting the Right Tool for the Job)

Microsoft provides a specific Media Creation Tool for each version of Windows. Ensure you download the correct tool for the Windows version you want to install.

1. Open Your Web Browser: Use any web browser on a working computer.
2. Go to the Official Microsoft Website:
   • For Windows 10: Navigate to the official Windows 10 download page:
   • For Windows 11: Navigate to the official Windows 11 download page:
3. Download the Media Creation Tool: On the respective download page, look for the section related to creating installation media. You should find a button that says “Download tool now.” Click on this button to download the Media Creation Tool executable file (it will have an .exe extension).

Step 2: Running the Media Creation Tool (Starting the Process)

Once the Media Creation Tool is downloaded, you can run it to begin creating your bootable USB drive.

1. Locate and Run the Downloaded File: Find the downloaded Media Creation Tool .exe file in your downloads folder and double-click on it to run the application.
2. User Account Control (UAC) Prompt: You might see a User Account Control prompt asking if you want to allow this app to make changes to your device. Click “Yes.”
3. Accept the License Terms: Read through the software license terms. If you agree, check the “Accept” or “Accept the license terms” box and click “Next.”

Step 3: Choosing What You Want to Do (Selecting Your Action)

The Media Creation Tool will ask you what you want to do. You want to create installation media for another computer.

1. Select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC”: Choose this option and click “Next.”

Step 4: Selecting the Language, Edition, and Architecture (Customizing Your Installation)

Now you’ll define the specifics of the Windows installation media you want to create.

1. Select Language: Choose the language for your Windows installation from the dropdown menu.
2. Select Edition: Choose the edition of Windows you want to install (e.g., Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows 10 Pro, etc.). The options available will depend on the tool you downloaded and your existing Windows license (if any).
3. Select Architecture: Choose the architecture for your Windows installation (32-bit or 64-bit). Most modern computers in April 2025 use a 64-bit architecture. If you’re unsure, you can check your computer’s system type (as explained in a previous article on checking specs) or select “Both” (if available) to create media that can install either architecture.
4. Click “Next”: Once you’ve made your selections, click “Next.”

Step 5: Choosing the Media to Use (Selecting Your USB Drive)

You need to tell the tool that you want to create a bootable USB flash drive.

1. Select “USB flash drive”: Choose this option and click “Next.”
2. Select Your USB Flash Drive: The tool will display a list of connected USB drives. Ensure you select the correct USB drive where you want to create the installation media. Remember that all data on this drive will be erased.
3. Click “Next”: Once you’ve selected the correct USB drive, click “Next.”

Step 6: Downloading and Creating the Windows Installation Media (The Main Process)

The Media Creation Tool will now download the necessary Windows installation files and write them to your USB drive, making it bootable.

1. Wait for the Download to Complete: The tool will start downloading the Windows installation files. This process can take a significant amount of time depending on the size of the files and your internet connection speed in Delhi, India, or elsewhere. You’ll see a progress indicator.
2. Wait for the Media Creation to Complete: Once the download is finished, the tool will then create the Windows installation media on your USB drive. This involves copying the files and making the drive bootable. This process will also take some time.
3. Progress Indicators: The tool will display progress indicators for both the download and creation phases. Do not interrupt the process by unplugging the USB drive or closing the tool.

Step 7: Finishing Up (Your Bootable USB is Ready)

Once the Media Creation Tool has finished creating the installation media, you’ll see a confirmation message.

1. “USB flash drive is ready”: The tool will indicate that your USB flash drive is ready.
2. Click “Finish”: Click the “Finish” button to close the Media Creation Tool.

You now have a bootable USB flash drive with Windows installation media! You can use this drive to install Windows on a computer or perform troubleshooting and repair operations.

My Personal Insights on Creating Bootable USBs 

I’ve found the Microsoft Media Creation Tool to be an indispensable tool for anyone working with Windows computers. It’s user-friendly, reliable, and ensures you have genuine Windows installation media. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast in Delhi building a new PC or simply need to reinstall Windows on your laptop, creating a bootable USB is a straightforward process that empowers you to manage your Windows installations. Remember to always use a blank USB drive as the process will erase its contents.

Okay, you’ve got TensorFlow or PyTorch installed on your Windows machine with GPU support enabled (like we discussed in the previous guide for TensorFlow). That’s a huge step towards faster Machine Learning (ML) training. But sometimes, even with a powerful GPU, training can feel slower than expected.

Simply having the GPU doesn’t automatically mean your training is fully optimized. Bottlenecks can occur in other parts of your system or workflow. By applying specific techniques, you can ensure your GPU is working at its full potential and significantly speed up your ML training. I was amazed by the difference some of these optimizations made when I first implemented them.

Why Optimization Matters for GPU Training

When you move ML training from a CPU to a GPU, the pure mathematical computations (like matrix multiplications) become much faster. However, other parts of the process, like getting the data ready for the GPU or how efficiently the model uses the GPU’s resources, can become the new slowdowns. Optimization helps address these issues.

How to Speed Up Machine Learning Training on Windows with GPU

Here are several steps and techniques you can use to make your ML training faster on Windows when using a GPU:

Step 1: Verify Your GPU is Actually Being Used

This might sound obvious, but it’s the first thing to check. Ensure your code is running on the GPU and that the GPU is active during training.

• Check GPU Activity:
  • Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc). Go to the ‘Performance’ tab. Click on your GPU. Look at the usage graphs (like “Compute 0” or “3D”). During training, you should see significant activity here, often close to 100%.
  • If you have an NVIDIA GPU, open Command Prompt and run nvidia-smi. This tool shows GPU utilization, memory usage, and running processes. Look for your Python process using GPU memory and showing high utilization during training.
• Verify in Code: Use the framework’s API to confirm GPU availability and usage.
  • TensorFlow: Add code like tf.config.list_physical_devices('GPU') to see detected GPUs. Use tf.debugging.set_log_device_placement(True) temporarily in your code to see messages indicating which device (CPU or GPU) operations are being placed on during execution.
  • PyTorch: Use torch.cuda.is_available() and torch.cuda.current_device() to check availability and the active GPU. Ensure your model and data tensors are moved to the GPU (e.g., model.to('cuda'), data.to('cuda')).

If your GPU isn’t showing activity, revisit your TensorFlow/PyTorch installation and configuration steps.

Step 2: Optimize Data Loading and Preprocessing

A common bottleneck is feeding data to the GPU fast enough. The GPU can process batches of data very quickly, but if it has to wait for the CPU to load and preprocess the next batch, the GPU sits idle.

• Use Built-in Data Pipelines: Machine learning frameworks provide optimized tools for this.
  • TensorFlow: Use the tf.data API to build efficient data pipelines. This allows for parallel loading, buffering, and prefetching data while the GPU is busy with the current batch.
  • PyTorch: Use the torch.utils.data.DataLoader class. Configure it with num_workers > 0 to load data in parallel processes on the CPU. Use pin_memory=True and non_blocking=True when moving data to the GPU (data.to('cuda', non_blocking=True)) for faster transfer.
• Store Data on Fast Storage: Loading data from a slow HDD will be slower than loading from a fast SSD or NVMe drive.
• Perform Preprocessing Strategically: Do as much computationally expensive preprocessing as possible before training and save the processed data. For transformations needed during training (like data augmentation), leverage GPU-accelerated libraries if available, or ensure your data loading pipeline handles it efficiently in parallel on the CPU.

Step 3: Choose an Appropriate Batch Size

The batch size (the number of samples processed in one forward/backward pass) significantly impacts GPU utilization.

• Larger Batch Size: Generally leads to better GPU utilization because the GPU can perform calculations on more data in parallel. This often speeds up training per epoch.
• GPU Memory Limit: The main constraint is your GPU’s memory (VRAM). You must choose a batch size that fits within your GPU’s memory along with the model parameters and intermediate calculations.
• Finding the Right Size: Experiment with the largest batch size that fits comfortably in your GPU memory without causing “out of memory” errors. While larger batches speed up computation, very large batches might require more epochs to converge, and very small batches might train slower per epoch but can sometimes lead to faster convergence or better generalization. It’s a trade-off you might need to tune.

Step 4: Use Mixed Precision Training

Modern NVIDIA GPUs (those with Tensor Cores, generally RTX series and later) are highly optimized for lower-precision floating-point numbers, specifically FP16 (16-bit) compared to the standard FP32 (32-bit).

• How it Works: Mixed precision training uses a combination of FP16 and FP32. Model parameters are typically stored in FP32 for accuracy, but computations are performed in FP16 where possible. Gradient values are often kept in FP16 but converted back to FP32 for updating the master copy of weights.
• Benefits: Can significantly speed up training (sometimes 2x or more) and reduce GPU memory usage, allowing for larger batch sizes.
• How to Enable:
  • TensorFlow (Keras): Add tf.keras.mixed_precision.set_global_policy('mixed_float16') at the beginning of your script.
  • PyTorch: Use torch.cuda.amp.autocast() within your training loop for forward passes and torch.cuda.amp.GradScaler() to handle gradient scaling during the backward pass and optimization steps.
• Requirement: Your GPU must support FP16 computations efficiently (Tensor Cores). Check your GPU specifications.

Step 5: Choose Efficient Model Architectures

Some model architectures are inherently more computationally expensive or less efficient on GPUs than others. While likely beyond a simple “how-to” step-by-step code change, understanding this can inform your model choices if speed is critical. Architectures designed with GPU parallelism in mind tend to perform better.

Step 6: Profile Your Training Code

If you’ve tried basic optimizations and still have speed issues, profiling can help pinpoint the exact bottlenecks – is it the GPU waiting, data loading, or something else?

• Framework Tools: TensorFlow and PyTorch have profiling tools that can show how much time is spent on the CPU, GPU, and moving data between them.
  • TensorFlow: Use the TensorFlow Profiler.
  • PyTorch: Use the PyTorch Profiler.
• Interpretation: Analyzing the profiling output helps identify where the slowdowns are occurring so you can focus your optimization efforts.

Step 7: Keep Software Updated

Regularly updating your NVIDIA drivers, CUDA Toolkit, cuDNN, and the TensorFlow/PyTorch libraries themselves can often provide performance improvements and bug fixes from the developers.

Other Potential Bottlenecks

Even with GPU optimization, your training speed can be limited by:

• CPU Speed: If your CPU is too slow, it can bottleneck data loading and preprocessing, even with parallel workers.
• System RAM: Not having enough RAM can lead to slow data loading or swapping.
• Storage Speed: As mentioned, a slow hard drive will limit how quickly data can be fed to the CPU/GPU.

Speeding up Machine Learning training on Windows with a GPU involves more than just installing the right software. It requires verifying GPU usage, optimizing how data gets to the GPU, tuning parameters like batch size, potentially using mixed precision, and understanding where bottlenecks lie. By applying these techniques, you can significantly reduce training times and iterate on your models much faster.

Ever felt limited by having only one operating system on your computer? Maybe you need Windows for certain software or games, but you’re curious about Linux for development, customization, or its open-source nature. Dual booting lets you install both Windows and Linux on the same computer and choose which one to start every time you turn on your machine. It’s like having two computers in one, using the same hardware. I decided to set up a dual boot a few years ago because I wanted to learn Linux without giving up my familiar Windows environment. It felt a bit intimidating at first, but by following the steps carefully, I was able to get it working.

Setting up a dual boot requires preparing your computer, creating installation media, and carefully guiding the installation process. This guide walks you through the steps to dual boot Windows with a popular Linux distribution like Ubuntu.

Important Preparations Before You Start

Setting up a dual boot involves modifying your hard drive. Data loss is a real risk if something goes wrong.

1. Back Up Your Data: This is the most crucial step. Back up all your important files from your Windows installation to an external hard drive or cloud storage. Seriously, do not skip this. I always back up before making significant changes to my disk.
2. Create a Windows Recovery Drive: This can help you access Windows repair options if there are boot issues later.
3. Ensure You Have Enough Free Space: Linux needs its own space on your hard drive. A minimum of 20-30 GB is recommended, but more is better, especially if you plan to install many applications or store files in Linux.
4. Gather Necessary Software: You’ll need the ISO file for the Linux distribution you want to install (Ubuntu is a common choice for beginners) and a tool to create a bootable USB drive.

Step 1: Shrink Your Windows Partition

You need to make space on your hard drive for the Linux installation. You’ll do this from within Windows using Disk Management.

• Press Windows Key + X and select “Disk Management”.
• In the Disk Management window, find the partition where Windows is installed (usually the C: drive).
• Right-click on the Windows partition and select “Shrink Volume…”.
• Windows will calculate how much space can be shrunk. Enter the amount of space you want to allocate for Linux in the field that says, “Enter the amount of space to shrink in MB.” Remember that 1 GB is 1024 MB. For 30 GB, you would enter around 30720.
• Click “Shrink”.

How to Shrink: This process will create “Unallocated” space on your hard drive. Do not create a new volume in this unallocated space; leave it as is. The Linux installer will use this space. The time this takes depends on your drive size and how much data is on it.

Step 2: Disable Windows Fast Startup

Fast Startup in Windows can interfere with dual booting by not fully shutting down the system, which can cause issues when accessing files from Linux.

• Click the Start button, type “Control Panel”, and open it.
• Change “View by” to “Large icons” or “Small icons” if it’s set to “Category.”
• Click “Power Options”.
• Click “Choose what the power buttons do” on the left side.
• Click “Change settings that are currently unavailable”.
• Under “Shutdown settings,” uncheck the box next to “Turn on fast startup (recommended)”.
• Click “Save changes”.

How to Disable: This ensures Windows performs a complete shutdown, making it safer for a dual-boot setup.

Step 3: Disable Secure Boot (May Be Required)

Secure Boot is a UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) feature designed to prevent malware from loading during startup. However, it can sometimes prevent Linux from booting. You may need to disable it in your computer’s BIOS/UEFI settings.

• Restart your computer.
• As the computer starts, press the key to enter BIOS or UEFI settings. This key varies by manufacturer (common keys are F2, F10, F12, Del, or Esc). You might see a message on the screen indicating which key to press.
• Once in the BIOS/UEFI settings, look for a setting related to “Secure Boot” or “Boot Mode”.
• Disable Secure Boot. You might also need to set the boot mode to “Legacy Support” or “CSM” if your Linux distribution requires it, though most modern Linux versions support UEFI.
• Save your changes and Exit the BIOS/UEFI setup.

How to Access BIOS/UEFI: If you miss the key prompt, you can also access UEFI settings from Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now. After restarting, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings > Restart. Be careful when changing BIOS/UEFI settings; follow on-screen instructions carefully.

Step 4: Create a Bootable Linux USB Drive

You’ll use a USB drive to install Linux.

• Download the ISO file for your chosen Linux distribution (e.g., from the Ubuntu website).
• Download a tool to create bootable USB drives. Rufus is popular for Windows. balenaEtcher is another user-friendly option.
• Insert a USB drive into your computer (make sure any important data is backed up from the USB, as it will be erased).
• Open the bootable USB creation tool.
• Select your USB drive.
• Select the ISO file you downloaded.
• Follow the tool’s instructions to write the ISO to the USB drive. Use the default settings unless you have a specific reason to change them.

How to Create: This process makes your USB drive bootable and puts the Linux installer on it. It typically takes several minutes.

Step 5: Boot from the USB Drive

Now you’ll start your computer using the Linux installer on the USB drive.

• With the bootable USB drive inserted, restart your computer.
• You may need to press a key during startup (often the same key as for BIOS/UEFI, or sometimes a different one like F12 for a boot menu) to select which device to boot from. Choose your USB drive.
• If successful, you will see the Linux boot menu. Choose the option to “Try Ubuntu” or “Install Ubuntu”. Choosing “Try Ubuntu” lets you test it out before installing.

How to Boot: If your computer boots back into Windows, you might need to go back into your BIOS/UEFI settings (Step 3) and change the Boot Order to prioritize the USB drive.

Step 6: Install Linux Alongside Windows

This is the most critical step where you install Linux onto the unallocated space you created earlier.

• If you chose “Try Ubuntu,” find the “Install Ubuntu” icon on the desktop and double-click it.
• Follow the initial installation prompts (language, keyboard layout, etc.).
• When you reach the “Installation type” screen, this is where you tell the installer where to put Linux.
  • Choose the option that says “Install Ubuntu alongside Windows Boot Manager” (or similar wording). This option is usually the simplest for dual-booting as it attempts to automatically configure the bootloader.
  • Alternatively, you can choose “Something else” for manual partitioning. If you choose this, you will need to select the “free space” or “unallocated space” you created in Step 1. Then, you’ll create partitions for Linux (at least a root partition ‘/’ formatted as Ext4, and potentially a swap area). This option gives you more control but requires more knowledge about Linux partitioning. For beginners, the “alongside” option is recommended.
• If you chose “Install alongside,” the installer will show you how it plans to partition the disk. You can usually adjust the slider to change the amount of space allocated to each operating system.
• Click “Install Now”.
• The installer will warn you about changes to the disk; confirm to proceed.
• Continue following the rest of the installation prompts (setting your location, creating a user account and password).

How to Partition: The “Install alongside” option is designed to make this process as safe as possible for dual booting. It automatically resizes the existing Windows partition further (if needed) and sets up the necessary Linux partitions and the bootloader.

Step 7: Install the GRUB Bootloader

The GRUB bootloader is essential for a dual-boot system. It’s the menu you’ll see when you start your computer, allowing you to choose between Windows and Linux. The Linux installer usually handles this automatically when you choose the “Install alongside” option, installing GRUB to the main boot drive.

How it Works: After installation, GRUB takes over the boot process. It detects both your Linux installation and your Windows installation and presents you with a menu each time you start your computer.

Step 8: Complete Installation and Restart

• Once the installation finishes, you will be prompted to restart your computer.
• Click “Restart Now”.
• When prompted, remove the USB installation drive.

How to Restart: Your computer will restart, and if the installation was successful, you should now see the GRUB boot menu.

Step 9: Choose Your Operating System

• At the GRUB boot menu, use your keyboard’s arrow keys to highlight either “Ubuntu” (or your Linux distribution’s name) or “Windows Boot Manager”.
• Press Enter to boot into the selected operating system.

How to Choose: You will see this menu every time you start your computer. GRUB usually remembers the last operating system you selected.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Computer Boots Straight into Windows: Your BIOS/UEFI boot order might still be set to boot from the Windows drive first. Go back into BIOS/UEFI settings (Step 3) and set the drive with the Linux installation/GRUB as the primary boot device.
• Computer Boots into GRUB Rescue: Something went wrong with the GRUB installation. You might need to boot back into the Linux USB (Step 5) and use a tool like “Boot-Repair” (often available in Live Linux environments) to fix the bootloader.
• Wrong Time in Windows After Booting into Linux: Windows and Linux sometimes handle the system clock differently (local time vs. UTC). In Linux, open the Terminal and run sudo timedatectl set-local-rtc 1 –adjust-system-clock. Enter your password. This tells Linux to use local time.
• Windows Updates Break GRUB: Occasionally, major Windows updates can overwrite the bootloader. If this happens, boot back into the Linux USB and use “Boot-Repair” to reinstall GRUB. Having that recovery USB ready is very helpful.

Dual booting Windows with Linux provides flexibility, allowing you to use both powerful operating systems on a single machine. While the process requires careful steps, especially during partitioning and bootloader setup, the ability to easily switch between Windows and Linux makes it worthwhile for many users. Taking the time to prepare and follow the instructions gives you the power of two operating systems at your fingertips.

Is your Windows computer feeling sluggish? Does it take forever to start up or open applications? A slow PC can be incredibly frustrating, turning simple tasks into tedious waits. It’s easy to think you need to buy a new computer, but often, you can significantly improve performance just by making some adjustments and performing simple maintenance within the Windows operating system itself. I’ve managed to breathe new life into older laptops just by following these steps.

Over time, Windows can get bogged down by too many programs running, unnecessary files, and resource-hungry settings. This guide will show you how to identify common culprits and use Windows’ built-in tools to clean up and speed things up.

Why Does Windows Slow Down Over Time?

Several things contribute to a PC slowing down:

• Too Many Startup Programs: Applications launching automatically when you turn on your computer.
• Background Processes: Apps running quietly in the background, using up CPU and memory.
• Low Disk Space or Fragmentation: A full hard drive or scattered files (on older HDDs) makes it harder for Windows to find what it needs.
• Visual Effects: Fancy animations and visual features that consume system resources.
• Malware or Viruses: Malicious software can run hidden processes that hog resources.
• Outdated Software/Drivers: Can lead to inefficiencies.

Let’s tackle these one by one.

Step 1: Manage Startup Programs (Reduce Boot Time)

Many applications are set to launch automatically when you start Windows. This makes your computer take longer to boot up and can slow things down right from the start.

1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard.
2. Go to the Startup Tab: Click the Startup tab at the top of the Task Manager window. (If you see a simple view, click “More details” first).
3. Identify Impactful Programs: Look at the list of programs. The “Startup impact” column (High, Medium, Low, None) tells you how much each program affects your startup time.
4. Disable Unnecessary Programs: Right-click on any program that you don’t need to start automatically (like chat apps, software updaters you don’t use often, game launchers) and select Disable. Be cautious about disabling programs from manufacturers like Microsoft or your computer’s brand unless you know exactly what they do. Focus on apps you installed yourself.

Disabling programs here doesn’t uninstall them; it just stops them from launching with Windows. You can still open them manually whenever you need them. This is one of the quickest ways to improve boot speed.

Step 2: Close Unnecessary Background Apps (Free Up Resources)

Even after your PC starts, many apps might be running in the background without you actively using them, consuming valuable CPU and memory (RAM).

1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Go to the Processes Tab: This tab shows everything currently running. It’s usually the first tab you see.
3. Identify Resource Hogs: Click on the CPU, Memory, or Disk columns to sort by usage. Look for apps you aren’t currently using that are consuming significant resources under “Apps” or “Background processes.”
4. End Unnecessary Tasks: Right-click on an app you want to close and select End task. Only do this for apps you recognize and know you don’t need running. Do not end processes listed under “Windows processes” or “Background processes” if you are unsure what they are, as this can cause system instability.

This helps free up resources for the programs you are actively using.

Step 3: Clean Up Your Hard Drive (Free Up Space and Organize Files)

A nearly full hard drive can slow down your computer, and on older types of drives, scattered files can also cause delays.

1. Run Disk Cleanup:
   • Search for “Disk Cleanup” in the Windows search bar and open it.
   • Select the drive you want to clean up (usually C:).
   • Check the boxes for types of temporary files you want to delete (like Temporary Internet Files, Recycle Bin, Temporary files).
   • Click Clean up system files for more options (like Windows Update Cleanup – this can free up a lot of space but takes time).
   • Click OK and then Delete Files.
2. Uninstall Unused Programs: Get rid of software you no longer need.
   • Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
   • Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find programs you don’t use.
   • Click the three dots next to the program name and select Uninstall.
3. Optimize Drives (Defragmentation/TRIM): This helps your hard drive work more efficiently.
   • Search for “Defragment and Optimize Drives” and open it.
   • IMPORTANT: If you have a Solid State Drive (SSD) (most modern computers do), select your drive and click Optimize. This runs the TRIM command, which helps SSDs manage data. DO NOT Defragment an SSD; it’s unnecessary and can reduce its lifespan.
   • If you have an older Hard Disk Drive (HDD), select the drive and click Defragment. This reorganizes scattered files for faster access.

Freeing up disk space and optimizing your drives helps Windows find and load files faster.

Step 4: Adjust Visual Effects (Reduce Resource Usage)

Windows uses visual effects like animations, shadows, and fading. These look nice but use system resources.

1. Search for “Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows” in the Windows search bar and open it.
2. In the Performance Options window, under the “Visual Effects” tab, you have options:
   • Let Windows choose what’s best for my computer: Default setting.
   • Adjust for best appearance: Turns on all effects (uses most resources).
   • Adjust for best performance: Turns off most visual effects for maximum speed (makes Windows look less fancy).
   • Custom: Lets you manually check or uncheck individual visual effects.
3. Select Adjust for best performance for maximum speed gain, or choose Custom and uncheck effects like “Animate controls and elements inside windows,” “Fade or slide menus into view,” “Show shadows under windows,” etc.
4. Click Apply and then OK.

You’ll notice Windows windows opening and closing more instantly.

Step 5: Adjust Power Settings (Maximize Performance)

Windows power plans balance performance and energy consumption. The default “Balanced” plan sometimes limits performance.

1. Search for “Power Options” or “Edit power plan” in the Windows search bar.
2. In the Power Options window, click Show additional plans if you don’t see them.
3. Select a High Performance or Ultimate Performance plan. These plans prioritize speed over saving energy.
4. (Optional) Click “Change plan settings” next to your chosen plan, then “Change advanced power settings” to explore more granular options, but selecting the plan itself is often sufficient.

Note: High Performance/Ultimate Performance plans will use more battery on laptops.

Step 6: Scan for Malware and Viruses (Remove Hidden Slowdowns)

Malicious software like viruses, spyware, or malware can run hidden processes that consume significant system resources and slow down your PC without your knowledge.

1. Search for “Windows Security” in the Windows search bar and open it.
2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
3. Click Scan options.
4. Select Full scan and click Scan now. This will thoroughly check your entire system, which can take a while.
5. Follow any prompts to remove or quarantine threats found.

Using the built-in Windows Security is a great first step. Running a scan regularly helps keep your system clean and fast.

Step 7: Keep Windows and Drivers Updated (Install Optimizations)

Microsoft regularly releases Windows updates that include performance improvements, bug fixes, and security patches. Device manufacturers also release updated drivers that can optimize hardware performance.

1. Check for Windows Updates:
   • Go to Settings > Windows Update.
   • Click Check for updates. Download and install any available updates.
2. Update Drivers: While Windows Update provides many drivers (often in optional updates), sometimes getting the latest drivers directly from your computer’s manufacturer (for laptop components) or graphics card manufacturer (Nvidia, AMD, Intel) is beneficial for performance, especially for graphics.

Keeping your system and key drivers updated ensures you have the latest optimizations.

Putting It All Together

Making Windows faster often involves a combination of these steps. Don’t just do one thing; tackle managing startup, cleaning your disk, adjusting visual settings, and ensuring security. It might take a little time upfront, but the result is a more responsive and enjoyable computer experience. It truly feels like getting a speed upgrade without paying for new hardware.

By regularly performing these maintenance tasks, you can help keep your Windows operating system running smoothly over time.