In this article, we will explore in depth the possible causes and solutions for slow performance after Windows update. By following these strategies, you can ensure your system runs smoothly post-update.

Common Causes of Slow Performance After Windows Update

• Background Processes: New processes running in the background can consume system resources.
• Disk Fragmentation: Updates might cause files to be fragmented, slowing down disk access times.
• Drive Outdated Drivers: Updated Windows may conflict with older drivers, degrading system performance.
• Lack of System Resources: Low memory or processor availability can slow down performance.
• Corrupted System Files: Incomplete updates might corrupt files, causing system instability.

Comprehensive Solutions to Fix Slow Performance After Windows Update

1. Free Up System Resources

One immediate step to address slow performance after Windows update is to free up system resources.

1. Right-click on the Taskbar and choose Task Manager.
2. Identify processes consuming excessive CPU and memory.
3. End unnecessary tasks by selecting them and clicking End Task.
4. Disable startup programs: Go to the Startup tab in Task Manager and disable non-essential programs.

2. Update Drivers

Ensuring your drivers are up to date is crucial for smooth performance after a Windows update.

1. Open the Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button.
2. Expand the categories and right-click the device you want to update.
3. Select Update driver, then click on Search automatically for updated driver software.
4. Install any available updates and restart the PC.

3. Run Disk Cleanup and Defragment the Drive

Improving disk efficiency can noticeably enhance system performance after a Windows update.

1. Search and open Disk Cleanup from the Start menu.
2. Select the drive you want to clean (usually C:).
3. Check all boxes under Files to delete and click OK.
4. To defragment your drive, open Defragment and Optimize Drives from the Start menu.
5. Select a drive and click on Optimize.

4. Check for Corrupted System Files

Running built-in utilities can repair corrupted files causing slow performance after a Windows update.

1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. This process will detect and repair any corrupted files.
4. After completion, restart your computer.

5. Disable Background Services

Many background services can slow down performance after a Windows update.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services.
3. Disable non-essential services and click OK.
4. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

6. Reset Virtual Memory

Adjusting virtual memory settings can help fix slow performance after a Windows update.

1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System.
2. Click on Advanced system settings on the left.
3. Under Performance, click Settings.
4. Navigate to Advanced and click Change under Virtual memory.
5. Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size, select your drive, and set the desired Custom size.
6. Click Set, then OK to apply.

7. Uninstall Problematic Updates

If specific updates are causing slow performance after a Windows update, you may need to uninstall them.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click View update history and then Uninstall updates.
3. Select the update you suspect is causing problems and click Uninstall.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help identify startup programs that slow performance after a Windows update.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Select Selective startup under the General tab and uncheck Load startup items.
3. Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and disable all unnecessary services.
4. Click OK and restart your computer.

Conclusion

Dealing with slow performance after Windows update can be inconvenient, but by thoroughly exploring the above solutions, you can restore your system’s speed and efficiency. Regular maintenance, including updating drivers, managing startup programs, and cleaning up the disk, ensures your PC remains responsive and in optimal condition. If the problem persists, consider consulting professional help to avoid hardware-related issues.