Technology media outlet BGR has identified ten common reasons why personal computers running the Microsoft Windows operating system experience reduced performance, highlighting issues ranging from low storage space to unneeded background apps.
Among the primary factors slowing down personal computers, tech experts from the publication highlighted filled device memory, recommending that users always maintain at least 10 to 25 percent of free storage space. Operating a computer with too many programs running simultaneously in background mode was also cited as a frequent cause of system sluggishness.
Specialists specifically warned against installing third-party optimization software whose creators promise to accelerate the operating system. According to the BGR report, these utilities duplicate existing tools already built into Windows and can actively harm computers by creating security backdoors that leave devices vulnerable to hacker intrusion. Microsoft Windows, developed by American technology firm Microsoft, remains the world's most widely used desktop operating system, featuring built-in maintenance tools for routine file cleanup and security scanning.
Software updates and system power modes
Refusing to install system updates was identified as another major cause of reduced performance. The report noted that Windows updates frequently fix system errors, allowing software to execute faster, and advised users against skipping software updates. Choosing sleep mode instead of turning off the computer completely also lowers performance over time, as a computer in sleep mode cannot clear its memory of background application traces or finish installing updates.
Ignoring basic cybersecurity rules was described by BGR as a significant mistake that degrades computer performance. Journalists also advised users to remove unused built-in features, pointing to the Copilot neural network tool as an example of software to uninstall if not needed. Copilot is an artificial intelligence assistant integrated into Windows 11 to help users generate content, summarize documents, and manage system preferences.
Graphics settings and storage optimization
To maintain peak speeds, specialists recommended selecting performance mode rather than energy saving mode in system settings. Where possible, users running Windows 11 were advised to disable visual effects. In addition, the material noted that computers may perform slower during gaming sessions if Game Mode is not turned on, directing users to enable the option under the Game Mode settings section in the operating system menu. Windows 11, released by Microsoft in 2021, introduced dedicated graphics and gaming optimization features designed to prioritize system resources during gameplay.
The findings follow a separate report in early August by technology portal MakeUseOf, which stated that disabling non-essential applications and adjusting several system settings can speed up Windows computers. Specialists at MakeUseOf also recommended turning on the Storage Sense feature to optimize solid-state drive (SSD) performance. Solid-state drives are high-speed flash storage components standard in modern personal computers, where automated maintenance helps prevent performance degradation over time.
