Slow computer after a Windows 11 update? Here’s how to fix it

Windows 11 updates promise better performance, enhanced security, and new features. But for some users, updates have the opposite effect: the system becomes slow, apps take forever to load, and the whole computer feels sluggish.

The good news? In most cases, it’s not a major issue—just a few tweaks can bring your laptop or PC back to life. Here’s what you can do if your computer is running slow after a Windows 11 update.

Wait 24 to 48 hours

After a major update, Windows often performs several background tasks, including:

• Re-indexing your files for faster search
• Finalizing system updates
• Updating Microsoft Defender and background services
• Cleaning up old system files

This can temporarily slow down your system. If the lag is mild, try waiting a day or two before taking further action.

Check task manager for high usage

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and look for:

• High CPU or disk usage from system processes
• Background tasks like Antimalware Service Executable, Windows Installer, or MoUsoCoreWorker.exe

Let these processes complete if they’re temporary. If something unusual keeps running, take note.

Disable startup programs

Updates may reactivate unnecessary apps on startup, which can slow down your system.

How to fix:

1. Open Task Manager
2. Go to the Startup tab
3. Disable apps you don’t need right away (Spotify, Teams, Adobe, etc.)

Run Disk Cleanup

Old update files can take up gigabytes of space and slow your system down.

1. Type Disk Cleanup in the Start menu
2. Select your main drive (usually C:)
3. Click Clean up system files
4. Check items like Previous Windows installations and Temporary files

This will free up space and potentially speed up your system.

Update your drivers

Updates sometimes break or reset drivers—especially for graphics, audio, or chipset.

What to do:

• Visit your laptop or motherboard manufacturer’s website
• Download the latest drivers for Windows 11
• Or open Device Manager, right-click any suspicious devices → Update driver

Adjust visual effects

Animations and shadows can slow things down on older or low-powered machines.

To adjust:

1. Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, press Enter
2. Go to the Advanced tab → Performance → Settings
3. Choose “Adjust for best performance” or disable specific effects manually

Run built-in troubleshooters

1. Open Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters
2. Run tools for:
   • Performance
   • Windows Update
   • Program compatibility

These can automatically detect and fix common slowdowns.

Consider uninstalling the update

If your system is much worse and nothing helps:

1. Go to Settings → Windows Update → Update history → Uninstall updates
2. Select the most recent major update and uninstall it

Note: You can usually do this only within 10 days of the update.

A slow system after a Windows 11 update is often temporary or caused by background activity. With a few simple checks and cleanups, you can usually restore your PC’s performance quickly. And if all else fails, you can roll back or reinstall the system to start fresh.