How to Disable Background Apps in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Michael Collins

Disabling background apps in Windows 11 can significantly improve your computer’s performance by freeing up resources. Here’s a quick guide to help you do just that. You’ll learn how to navigate your settings, identify which apps are running in the background, and disable them to keep your system running smoothly.

Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Disable Background Apps in Windows 11

This guide will walk you through a few simple steps to disable background apps in Windows 11. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have freed up valuable system resources.

Step 1: Open Settings

To begin, press the Windows key + I to open the Settings menu.

After pressing these keys, the Settings window will appear. This is your main hub for changing various system settings.

Step 2: Navigate to "Apps"

In the Settings menu, click on "Apps" from the left-hand sidebar.

The Apps section contains all the installed applications on your device, including those running in the background.

Step 3: Select "Apps & Features"

Next, click on "Apps & Features," which is located at the top of the Apps section.

This opens up a list of all the apps installed on your computer, making it easy to manage them.

Step 4: Identify Background Apps

Scroll through the list and identify the apps you want to stop from running in the background.

Take your time to review each app. Consider which ones you don’t actively use but might still be consuming resources.

Step 5: Adjust Each App’s Background Activity

Click on the three dots next to each app and select "Advanced options." Scroll down to "Background apps permissions" and select "Never."

This step ensures that the selected app will no longer run in the background, thus freeing up system resources.

After completing these steps, your computer should run more efficiently. You should notice faster processing speeds and better overall performance.

Tips for Disabling Background Apps in Windows 11

  • Regularly Review Your Apps: Keep an eye on your installed apps regularly to ensure none are unnecessarily running in the background.
  • Use Task Manager: For a quick overview, use Task Manager to see which apps are consuming the most resources.
  • Consider App Usage: Only disable background activity for apps you rarely use to avoid missing out on important notifications.
  • System Updates: Ensure your system is up-to-date. Sometimes background apps are optimized with newer updates.
  • Battery Life: Disabling unneeded background apps can also extend your laptop’s battery life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are background apps?

Background apps are applications that run while you are using other programs. They can consume system resources even when not in active use.

Will disabling background apps affect app notifications?

Yes, it may affect notifications. If you disable background activity, the app may not send you notifications until you manually open it.

How can I see which apps are running in the background?

You can use Task Manager to see which apps are running and how much resources they are consuming.

Can I re-enable background apps after disabling them?

Yes, you can always go back to the app’s settings and change the background app permissions to "Always" or "Power optimized."

Do I need to disable background apps after each system update?

Generally, no. Your settings should remain intact, but it’s a good idea to check after significant updates.

Summary

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Click on "Apps" from the sidebar.
  3. Select "Apps & Features."
  4. Identify which background apps to disable.
  5. Adjust each app’s background settings to "Never."

Conclusion

Disabling background apps in Windows 11 is a straightforward way to boost your computer’s performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your system remains fast and efficient. Regularly reviewing your apps and their background permissions can make a significant difference in how smoothly your computer runs.

If you notice your device slowing down, it’s always a good idea to revisit these settings. For more tips on keeping your system optimized, be sure to check out more articles and guides. Your computer will thank you for it! Whether you’re a tech newbie or a seasoned pro, managing background apps is an essential skill in keeping your system running at its best.