If you’ve noticed your Windows 11 computer running a bit slower than usual, it might be because too many apps are running in the background. Shutting down these background apps can free up resources and make your computer run more smoothly. This simple guide will show you how to stop background running apps in Windows 11, step by step.
How to Stop Background Running Apps in Windows 11
This guide will help you manage and stop apps that are running in the background on Windows 11. By following these steps, you can improve your computer’s performance and conserve battery life.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, open the Settings app on your Windows 11 computer.
To do this, click on the Start button (the Windows logo) and then click on the ‘Settings’ icon, which looks like a gear. Alternatively, you can press ‘Windows + I’ on your keyboard to open it directly.
Step 2: Go to Apps
Next, navigate to the ‘Apps’ section within the Settings app.
Once you are in the Settings app, find and click on ‘Apps’ in the left-hand menu. This section contains all the app-related settings you need.
Step 3: Open Apps & Features
Now, click on ‘Apps & features’ under the Apps section.
This menu will show you a list of all the installed apps on your computer. Here, you can manage which apps are allowed to run in the background.
Step 4: Select the App to Manage
Find the app you want to stop from running in the background.
Scroll through the list of apps and click on the three-dot menu next to the app you want to manage. Then, select ‘Advanced options.’
Step 5: Change Background App Permissions
Finally, change the app’s background permissions.
In the ‘Advanced options’ menu, you’ll see a section called ‘Background apps permissions.’ Choose ‘Never’ to stop the app from running in the background.
After completing these steps, the selected app will no longer run in the background, freeing up resources on your computer.
Tips for Stopping Background Running Apps in Windows 11
- Regularly Check Background Apps: Periodically review which apps are running in the background to keep your computer running optimally.
- Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs: Some apps start automatically when you turn on your computer. Use Task Manager to disable these.
- Use Battery Saver Mode: If you’re on a laptop, enabling Battery Saver can automatically limit background activity.
- Keep Apps Updated: Updated apps may run more efficiently and use fewer resources.
- Uninstall Unused Apps: If you don’t use an app, consider uninstalling it to free up space and resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are background apps?
Background apps are programs that continue to run even when you’re not actively using them. They can perform tasks like sending notifications or updating content.
How do background apps affect my computer’s performance?
Background apps can consume resources like CPU, memory, and battery life, potentially slowing down your computer.
Can I stop all background apps?
While you can stop most background apps, some are essential for system performance and should be left running.
How do I know which apps are running in the background?
You can check running background apps through the ‘Apps & features’ section in Settings or by using Task Manager.
Will stopping background apps improve my battery life?
Yes, stopping unnecessary background apps can help extend battery life, especially on laptops.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Apps.
- Open Apps & features.
- Select the app to manage.
- Change background app permissions.
Conclusion
You’ve now learned how to stop background running apps in Windows 11, a handy trick to keep your computer running smoothly. By following the steps outlined, you should see an improvement in performance and battery life.
Regularly managing background apps can keep your system efficient, ensuring you get the best out of your Windows 11 experience. If you’re looking for more ways to optimize your computer, consider checking out guides on disabling startup programs or tweaking performance settings. Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way!
Happy computing!