Windows 11 Slow After Update: Fix It Safely (2026)

Ever wondered why your Windows 11 computer feels slow after an update? Many users face this issue. Despite updates aiming to boost performance, some can make your system slow. We’ll show you how to make your PC fast again.

Key Takeaways

Understanding common reasons behind slow performance after updates.
Simple fixes to try before attempting advanced solutions.
Importance of keeping drivers and settings up to date.
Steps to safely resolve persistent performance issues.
When to consider advanced fixes like SFC, DISM, or resetting your PC.

What Happens After a Windows Update

After a Windows update, your PC might feel slow. Several things can make it run slower. These include tasks still running, driver changes, and not enough free space.

Background Tasks Still Running

Even after the update seems done, tasks can still be running. These tasks use up a lot of system resources. This makes your PC feel slower.

Driver Changes After Updates

Windows often updates drivers with system updates. This can cause problems like lag or crashes. For example, if graphics drivers don’t match the new system, it can slow things down. Keeping drivers updated helps avoid these issues.

Low Free Storage Space

How much free space you have is also important. Not enough space can slow down your system. Windows needs enough space to work well. Clearing out unused files and programs helps keep your PC running smoothly.

Quick Fixes to Try First

If your system is slow, try a few quick fixes. These can help with problems like windows 11 slow boot after update. Start with simple steps that often solve common issues.

Restart and Wait for Indexing to Finish

First, restart your computer. This can fix minor problems that updates cause. After restarting, let your system finish indexing. This process organizes your files and apps.

Check Task Manager for High CPU or Disk

Next, open Task Manager. Look at CPU and disk usage. Find apps using too much resources. Closing these can boost performance and fix slow issues. If disk usage stays stuck at 100%, use this guide for 100% disk usage on Windows 11.

Free Up Space and Reboot

Then, check your storage space. If it’s almost full, delete unused files or programs. This can make your system faster. After clearing space, reboot to see if it helps.

Safe Fix Steps

For a more thorough fix, consider these safe steps. They improve your Windows 11 experience and address performance issues. These actions ensure your system runs optimally and can significantly fix slow Windows 11 scenarios.

Install Optional Windows Updates

Start by checking for any optional updates from Microsoft. These updates often include crucial security patches and performance enhancements. They can alleviate Windows 11 performance issues.

Update Graphics and Chipset Drivers

Next, update your graphics and chipset drivers. Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause significant slowdowns. This impacts your overall experience in applications and games.

Disable Heavy Startup Apps

Another effective step is to disable heavy startup applications. Limiting the number of programs that automatically launch during startup can dramatically improve boot times. This leads to a more responsive system.

Check Power Mode Settings

Lastly, verify your power mode settings. Set your PC to a balanced or high-performance option. Energy-saving modes can restrict performance and contribute to slow Windows 11 responses.

Advanced Fixes (If Still Slow)

If your PC is still slow after a Windows update, it’s time for advanced fixes. These steps can solve problems that simple fixes didn’t. But, be careful; some actions may change your system settings.

Run SFC and DISM (With Warning)

Start by running the System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM). They check and fix damaged system files that slow your PC. This process takes time and might change some settings, so follow the instructions closely.

Roll Back a Problem Driver (If Needed)

If a new driver is slowing your PC, try rolling it back in Device Manager. This often fixes performance issues and gets your system working right again.

Reset This PC (Last Resort, Backup First)

As a last option, resetting your PC might be needed. It reinstalls Windows 11 and can fix slowdowns from updates. Before you do this, make sure to back up your files. This way, you won’t lose important data. These steps should help make your computer fast again.

Conclusion

A Windows 11 update can slow your PC because of background tasks, driver changes, or low free space. Start with the quick fixes, then update drivers and reduce startup load before trying advanced repairs.

If the problem still won’t go away, use SFC/DISM and only reset your PC as a last resort after backing up your files.