Windows 11 Running Slow After Fresh Install? Causes & Easy Fixes

Installing Windows 11 on a new or existing PC should make your system faster and smoother. But many users face a common and frustrating issue: Windows 11 running slow even after a fresh install.

If your PC feels laggy, apps take time to open, or boot speed is slow, don’t worry. This guide explains why Windows 11 runs slow after installation and provides easy, proven fixes that actually work.

Why Is Windows 11 Slow After a Fresh Install?

A fresh Windows installation doesn’t always mean optimal performance. Several background processes and system settings can slow things down.

Common reasons include:

• Outdated or missing drivers
• Background updates & indexing
• Low RAM or HDD instead of SSD
• Startup apps running automatically
• Incorrect power settings
• Visual effects consuming resources

Let’s fix these step by step.

1. Let Windows 11 Finish Background Updates

After a fresh install, Windows 11 runs updates, indexing, and optimization tasks in the background.

Fix:

• Wait 24-48 hours after installation
• Keep your PC connected to the internet
• Restart your system once or twice

Performance often improves automatically after updates complete.

2. Install Missing or Outdated Drivers (Most Important)

Windows may install generic drivers, which reduce performance.

Fix:

1. Press Win + X → Device Manager
2. Look for yellow warning signs
3. Update these drivers:
   • Graphics driver
   • Chipset driver
   • Storage controller
   • Network driver

Best option: Download drivers directly from your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s website.

3. Check If You’re Using HDD Instead of SSD

Windows 11 is optimized for SSDs. Running it on an HDD causes lag, slow boot, and delayed app loading.

Fix:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Performance
• Check Disk type (HDD or SSD)

Best solution: Upgrade to an SSD (huge speed boost)

4. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Too many startup apps slow down boot time and background performance.

Fix:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
2. Go to Startup apps
3. Disable apps you don’t need at startup

Examples to disable:

• Chat apps
• Auto updaters
• Cloud sync tools (optional)

5. Set Power Mode to Best Performance

Windows 11 often defaults to Balanced or Power Saver mode.

Fix:

1. Open Settings → System → Power & battery
2. Set Power mode → Best performance

This allows your CPU to perform at full capacity.

6. Reduce Visual Effects & Animations

Windows 11 animations look good but consume system resources.

Fix:

1. Press Win + R → sysdm.cpl
2. Go to Advanced → Performance → Settings
3. Select Adjust for best performance
4. Click Apply

This is especially helpful for low-RAM PCs.

7. Check RAM Usage & Background Apps

If you have 4GB or 8GB RAM, Windows 11 may struggle.

Fix:

• Close unused apps
• Uninstall heavy software you don’t need
• Avoid running multiple browsers with many tabs

Recommended RAM:

• Minimum: 8GB
• Best: 16GB

8. Turn Off Background Apps

Some apps run in the background even when not in use.

Fix:

1. Go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps
2. Select an app → Advanced options
3. Set Background app permissions → Never

9. Check for Windows Errors & System Health

Corrupt system files can cause slowdowns.

Fix:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin)
2. Run:

sfc /scannow

3. Wait for the scan to complete
4. Restart your PC

10. When to Reinstall Windows 11 Again?

Consider reinstalling only if:

• Drivers fail repeatedly
• System crashes often
• Major files are corrupted

Before reinstalling, backup important data.

Quick Performance Checklist

• Update drivers
• Use SSD instead of HDD
• Disable startup apps
• Set power mode to Best Performance
• Reduce animations
• Upgrade RAM if needed

Also Read:

• Why Is My Computer Not Turning On Even When Plugged In? (Causes & Fixes)
• Best Laptop Under ₹30,000 for Students- All Rounder Performance (2026 Guide)

FAQ – Windows 11 Slow Performance

Q1. Is Windows 11 slower than Windows 10?
No. On supported hardware, Windows 11 performs equal or better than Windows 10.

Q2. How long does Windows 11 take to stabilize after install?
Usually 1–2 days due to updates and indexing.

Q3. Can low-end PCs run Windows 11 smoothly?
Yes, with SSD, enough RAM, and optimized settings.

Final Thoughts

If Windows 11 is running slow after a fresh install, it doesn’t mean something is wrong with your PC. In most cases, simple optimizations like driver updates, disabling startup apps, and using an SSD can dramatically improve performance.

Apply these fixes one by one, and your Windows 11 system should feel fast, smooth, and responsive.