Reduce startup programs: Disable high-impact non-essential startup items through Task Manager; 2. Enable quick boot: Turn on the quick boot function in the power options to shorten the boot time; 3. Update the system and drivers: Install Windows updates and optional updates, especially storage and chipset drivers; 4. Check storage health: Use commands or tools to detect the hard disk status, prioritize upgrading to SSD and maintain sufficient free space; 5. Run system maintenance tools: Perform disk cleaning, chkdsk, sfc /scannow, and DISM repair system files; 6. Adjust visual effects and services: Set performance options to best performance or disable non-essential services through MSConfig. The key to solving the slow startup of Windows 11 is to manage startup items, update the system, check the hardware status, and perform system maintenance, which can ultimately significantly improve the startup speed.

Windows 11 slow startup can be frustrating, especially when you're in a hurry. The good news is that there are several common causes — and just as many practical fixes. Here's how to speed up your Windows 11 startup process.

1. Reduce Startup Programs

One of the biggest culprits of slow boot times is too many apps launching at startup.

How to fix it:

• Press Ctrl Shift Esc to open Task Manager.
• Go to the Startup tab.
• Sort by Startup impact — look for apps labeled "High" or "Medium."
• Right-click any unnecessary program (like Spotify, Discord, or Adobe Updater) and select Disable .

? Tip: Keep only essential apps like antivirus or driver utilities. Most apps (eg, browsers, chat tools) can be launched manually later.

2. Enable Fast Startup

Fast Startup is a Windows feature that combines shutdown and hibernation to make booting faster.

How to enable it:

• Press Win R , type control , and press Enter.
• Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do .
• Click Change settings that are currently unavailable .
• Check the box for Turn on fast startup (recommended) .
• Click Save changes .

?? Note: Fast Startup may cause issues on some dual-boot systems or after driver updates. If you encounter problems, you can disable it later.

3. Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated system files or drivers — especially storage drivers — can significantly slow down startup.

What to do:

• Press Win I to open Settings .
• Go to Windows Update and install any pending updates.
• Also check for optional updates (click Advanced options > Optional updates ) to update drivers.

Alternatively:

• Use Device Manager ( devmgmt.msc ) to update your disk drives and chipset drivers under IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers and Storage controllers .

4. Check Your Storage Health

Slow startup is often a sign of storage issues — especially if you're still using an older hard drive (HDD) or a failing SSD.

What to do:

• Upgrade to SSD : If you're still on an HDD, upgrading to an SSD is the single most effective way to speed up boot time.
• Check disk health :
  • Open Command Prompt as admin and run:

     wmic diskdrive get status

    It should return “OK” for all drives.

  • Use tools like CrystalDiskInfo (free) to monitor SSD/HDD health.

Also:

• Make sure your drive isn't nearly full. Free up space — Windows needs breathing room to operate efficiently.

5. Run System Maintenance Tools

Windows has built-in tools that can fix underlying issues slowing down startup.

Recommended steps:

• Run Disk Cleanup :
  • Search for “Disk Cleanup,” select your system drive, and clean temporary files, system files, and update backups.
• Check for disk errors :
  • Open Command Prompt as admin and run:

     chkdsk C: /f /r

    (Replace C: if your OS is on another drive.) You'll need to schedule it for the next restart.

• Run SFC and DISM :
  • In Command Prompt (admin), run:

     sfc /scannow

    Then:

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

    These fix corrupted system files that might be affecting performance.

6. Adjust Visual Effects and Services (Optional)

If you're on older hardware, tweaking performance settings can help.

To optimize for performance:

• Press Win S , type View advanced system settings , and open it.
• Under the Advanced tab, click Settings in Performance.
• Choose Adjust for best performance , or manually disable animations like “Animate windows” or “Fade effects.”

You can also use MSConfig ( msconfig ) to disable non-essential services (but be cautious — don't disable unknown items).

Final Thoughts

Most slow startup issues in Windows 11 come down to startup apps, outdated drivers, or aging hardware. Tackle the basics first: disable unnecessary startup programs, enable Fast Startup, and ensure your system is updated. If the problem persists, check your drive health — and consider upgrading to an SSD if you haven't already.

It's not magic — just smart optimization. Basically that's it.

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