Simple Ways to Speed Up Your Windows 10 System
Plus, keeping things tidy can help your hardware last longer and make your workspace more efficient.
Start with Disk Cleanup
The first step is to use Windows’ built-in Disk Cleanup tool. This handy utility scans your drive for files you probably don’t need anymore, like temporary files and system caches. Typically, you’ll want to run it on your C: drive. Once it finishes scanning, you’ll see a list of items that can be safely deleted.
Running this regularly frees up space and speeds up file access since those pesky junk files won’t be clogging up your system.
- Search for Disk Cleanup in the Start menu and give it a click.
- Alternatively, open Command Prompt or PowerShell and type
cleanmgr.exe.
Uninstall Unused Applications
Next, it’s worth reviewing your installed programs. Those apps you downloaded ages ago and haven’t touched since? Time to say goodbye. Head to the Control Panel, select ‘Programs and Features’, and look through the list. Remove anything outdated or unnecessary. This clears space and reduces background processes that gobble up system resources.
Just be cautious — don’t uninstall anything you still plan to use, as that could cause issues.
- Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
- Select the programs you no longer need and click Uninstall.
Manage Startup Items
Many apps love to launch themselves when your Windows boots up, which can significantly delay startup time. To speed things along, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, then switch to the Startup tab. Here, you can disable programs that aren’t essential at startup—they’ll still be available when you want them, just not hogging resources right from the get-go.
To disable an app, right-click it and select Disable.
Defragment Your Hard Drive
If you’re still using a traditional HDD, running a defragmentation can help boost performance. It reorganises your files so your system can find them quicker. Launch the Defragment and Optimize Drives tool from the Start menu or type defrag in the Run box with Windows key + R. Make sure you select the correct drive for analysis.
- Find it via: Start > Windows Administrative Tools > Defragment and Optimize Drives.
A quick heads-up: don’t defrag SSDs. Windows automatically handles them with TRIM commands, which is exactly what they need.
Keep Windows and Drivers Up to Date
Staying current with Windows updates and device drivers is key to a stable, secure PC. Head to Settings, select Update & Security, and click Check for updates. These updates often include performance improvements and security patches vital for smooth operation.
- To update drivers, open Device Manager (right-click the Start button), then right-click a device and choose Update driver. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
After completing these steps, many users notice a real boost in speed — faster startups, smoother multitasking, and better file handling. It’s surprising what a little TLC can accomplish.
Extra Tips for a Happy, Healthy Windows 10
To keep your system running smoothly, make a habit of regularly emptying your Recycle Bin. Over time, it fills up unnecessarily. Consider using tools like CCleaner or Advanced SystemCare for more thorough cleaning, but use them with care.
And don’t forget to keep your desktop clutter-free — a tidy workspace makes finding files faster and reduces mental clutter.
- You can run Disk Cleanup via the command line with:
cleanmgr /sagerun:1. First, set it up with cleanmgr /sageset:1. - Enable automatic updates and disk optimisation in Settings > Storage.
As a general rule, performing these maintenance tasks every few months is enough to prevent slowing down. It helps stop that sluggish feeling from creeping in over time. Be cautious: deleting essential system files can cause problems, but cleaning out junk and unused apps is usually safe.
One last tip: defragmenting HDDs can speed things up considerably, but avoid doing this on SSDs, as it can actually reduce their lifespan.
Hopefully, these tips save you time and frustration. They’ve worked well on plenty of machines I’ve tested them on.
Does disabling startup programs stop them from working?
No worries — disabling a program’s automatic startup just means it won’t launch on boot. You can still open and use it whenever you like. The goal is simply to speed up the boot process, so your PC doesn’t spend ages loading everything all at once.
Are third-party cleanup tools worth the bother?
Windows’ own tools do a pretty good job for regular maintenance. But if you want a deeper clean, programs like CCleaner or Glary Utilities are popular options. They can dig into those stubborn junk files and help optimise your system and storage. Just be sure to choose reputable ones—there are dodgy apps out there that can do more harm than good.
Quick Fixes for a Cleaner System
- Run Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr) to clear temporary files.
- Uninstall apps you no longer use.
- Disable unnecessary startup apps to speed up boot times.
- If you have an HDD, defrag it to improve data access.
- Keep Windows and device drivers current for stability and security.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Windows 10 Fast and Secure
Sticking to these routines can seriously improve your Windows 10 experience and even extend your device’s lifespan. Think of it as regular maintenance for your PC — neglect it, and eventually it’ll struggle when you need it most. Many find that a bit of ongoing TLC not only speeds things up but also cuts down on those annoying glitches and crashes.
In today’s fast-paced digital environment, a sluggish or cluttered computer can be real headache. Taking a bit of time for regular system cleanups helps keep security tight and ensures your device stays reliable and quick. Setting up a maintenance schedule isn’t just smart — it’s essential. It keeps your workflow smooth, reduces bugs, and keeps your digital space organised.