13 Effective Ways to Reduce Background Processes in Windows 11

Is your Windows PC running slow or lagging? Are you tired of dealing with a high number of background processes running in Windows 11? Well, you're not alone. Many users face this issue, but luckily, there are several ways to reduce background processes and improve the performance of your PC. In this article, we will explore 13 effective methods to help you tackle this problem and get your Windows 11 running smoothly again.

1. Restart Your PC

If you've been using your PC for a long time, it's best to give it a rest by restarting it. Restarting your PC allows the processor to cool down and closes any unintended or unnecessary background processes running. It's a simple yet effective method to reduce background processes and improve performance.

Recently purchased a new PC? Windows might be indexing files, restoring backup data, and building cache to enhance performance. In this case, it's advisable to let it run its course, as Windows will automatically eliminate any redundant background processes. As long as your PC's performance is not compromised, having a few background processes is not necessarily a bad thing.

2. Close Unwanted Browser Tabs

Having too many browser tabs open can significantly contribute to the high number of background processes in Windows 11. Each tab creates a separate process that consumes resources and memory. To reduce background processes, consider closing unnecessary tabs in your browser. You can also hover over each open tab in Google Chrome to check its memory usage in real-time and decide which tabs to close first.

3. Uninstall Unwanted Applications

Having too many applications installed on your PC can lead to an excessive number of background processes. Each app has its own update service and other background activities that consume resources. Uninstalling unnecessary applications not only frees up storage space but also eliminates their background processes. You can use third-party uninstallers like Revo Uninstaller to remove applications completely and cleanly from Windows 11.

4. Disable Ads in Windows

Ads and data collection telemetry from Microsoft can contribute to the increasing number of background processes in Windows. Disabling ads in Windows can help reduce background processes. You can disable ads from the Start menu, lock screen, notification ads, and other data-sending processes. Check out our detailed guide on how to disable ads on Windows 11 for more information.

5. Remove Apps from the System Tray

Some applications continue to run in the background even when you're not actively using them. To reduce background processes, manually close these applications from the system tray on the taskbar. Click on the arrow pointing upwards on the right side of the taskbar to access the system tray. Look for apps that you're not actively using and right-click on them to close them.

6. Disable the Xbox Game Bar

The Xbox Game Bar is a game overlay manager from Microsoft that runs in the background all the time. If you don't use it for gaming, disabling the Xbox Game Bar can free up system resources. Check out our guide on how to disable the Xbox Game Bar on Windows 11 for detailed instructions.

7. Disable Touchscreen and Screen Gestures

If you're using an old touch-enabled Windows PC, enabling all touch-related features and gestures can put a strain on your machine. To reduce background processes, consider enabling the touchscreen only when you're actively using it and disabling it when not in use. You can disable the touchscreen from the Device Manager by following a few simple steps.

8. Change Personalization Settings

Personalization settings in Windows, such as transparency effects and dynamic themes, can increase resource usage. You can reduce background processes by changing unnecessary visual settings that you don't use regularly. Go to the Settings app, switch to the Accessibility tab, and click on Visual effects. Turn off transparency effects and animation effects to reduce background processes.

9. Change Startup Apps from the Task Manager

Disabling startup applications is essential to improve boot times and overall performance. These applications run in the background from the moment you start your Windows machine. Open the Task Manager, switch to the Startup apps tab, and disable applications that you don't actively use.

10. End Tasks from the Task Manager

Some apps or processes can remain open in the background even after you close them. To reduce background processes, you need to dig deeper into the Task Manager. Check the Apps and Background processes sections and manually end tasks that are unnecessary. Be cautious and avoid closing Windows processes, as they are essential for the proper functioning of Windows.

11. Turn Off Services from System Configuration

System Configuration allows you to turn off unnecessary services that run in the background. Open the Start menu and search for “msconfig” to access System Configuration. Switch to the Services tab, hide all Microsoft services, and disable any services that you deem unnecessary.

12. Change Windows Update Settings

Windows Updates can consume system resources while checking for and installing updates. You can delay non-important feature updates or temporarily pause all updates to improve performance. Go to Windows Update in the Settings app and adjust the update settings according to your preferences.

13. Reset Your PC

If all else fails and you're still experiencing a high number of background processes, you can consider resetting your PC. This should be your last resort, as resetting your PC will remove all files, apps, and settings. Use this option only if other methods don't work for you.

Reducing background processes in Windows 11 can significantly improve your PC's performance. By following these 13 methods, you can effectively reduce background processes and enjoy a smoother and faster Windows experience. Take control of your PC's performance and optimize it according to your needs.