If your PC slow after Windows update, don’t worry — this is a common issue. Many users complain their computer runs slow after updates, with programs taking longer to open and performance dropping. While Windows updates are important to fix bugs, improve security, and add new features, they can sometimes make your PC slow after a Windows update. The good news is, there are simple fixes to get your system running smoothly again.
If you also face app freezes or programs not responding after an update, check out our guide on fixing app not responding issues for extra help.
In this article, I’ll guide you step-by-step with simple solutions that anyone can follow to fix this issue easily. You don’t need to be a tech expert to make your PC fast after Windows update again.
Why Does Your PC Slow After Windows Update?
After a Windows update, your PC may slow down due to several common reasons. Knowing why this happens helps you fix the problem more easily.
1. Update Tasks Running in the Background
After an update, Windows runs multiple tasks in the background. These include indexing files, optimizing system performance, and finalizing the update process. These tasks use CPU power and memory (RAM), which can make your PC slower for a few hours or even a day.
For example, after a major Windows update, you may notice your PC takes longer to open programs or that the fan is running continuously. This is normal at first because the system is finishing tasks. If your PC stays slow for days, then you need to check and fix background processes manually.
2. Compatibility Issues with Old Drivers
Windows updates sometimes make older drivers outdated. Drivers are programs that allow your hardware like graphics cards, sound cards, or network devices to work properly. If drivers are outdated, your PC may face compatibility issues, causing slow performance, crashes, or errors.
Updating your drivers after a Windows update ensures that your hardware works smoothly with the new system changes. This is one of the easiest ways to prevent slowdowns.
3. Buildup of Temporary Files and Cache
Every Windows update creates temporary files and cache to complete installation. Over time, these files build up and occupy storage space, which can slow down your PC.
Imagine your PC as a desk. If the desk is full of unnecessary papers and items, it becomes hard to work. Similarly, if your storage is cluttered with temporary files, your PC takes more time to access programs and files. Cleaning these files regularly helps maintain good performance.
4. Overload of Startup Programs
After an update, some apps automatically add themselves to startup. When your PC starts, these apps load together, increasing boot time and slowing overall performance.
For example, apps like messaging tools, cloud storage, or software updaters often start automatically. Disabling unnecessary start-up apps can make your PC start faster and free up memory for other programs.
Simple Steps to Fix a PC Slow After Windows Update
1. Check Background Processes
- Open Task Manager (Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc)
- Go to the Processes tab and check which apps are using high CPU or RAM
- If you find unnecessary apps, simply click End Task
Checking background processes allows you to see exactly what is slowing down your PC. Many times, a single app running in the background can take 30–50% of your CPU. Ending these tasks temporarily frees system resources.
2. Use Disk Cleanup
- Type Disk Cleanup in Windows search and open it
- Select temporary files, system cache, and unnecessary files, then click Clean
Disk Cleanup not only frees up storage but also helps Windows run faster. You can clean browser cache, old update files, and system logs that are no longer needed. This small step often improves speed noticeably.
3. Update Windows and Drivers
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
- Check for pending updates and install them
- Make sure all drivers, especially graphics and network drivers, are updated
Keeping Windows and drivers up-to-date ensures maximum compatibility and performance. Updated drivers prevent crashes, freezing, or slow performance caused by conflicts between old drivers and new system files.
4. Antivirus and Malware Scan
- Sometimes malware or viruses can slow down your PC after an update
- Use Windows Defender or other trusted antivirus software to scan your system
- If a virus is found, delete or quarantine it
Malware can run secretly in the background, using CPU and memory, which makes your PC sluggish. A full system scan keeps your PC safe and improves performance.
5. Optimize Visual Effects
- Right-click This PC > Properties > Advanced system settings > Performance
- Select Adjust for best performance or turn off unnecessary visual effects
Disabling fancy animations, shadows, and transparency frees system resources, making your PC faster. Even older PCs can feel much more responsive after this adjustment.
6. Check Storage Space
- Go to Settings > System > Storage and check free space
- If storage is less than 20%, remove old files or move them to an external drive
Low storage affects performance because Windows needs free space to manage temporary files and system cache. Regularly deleting unnecessary files or moving them to an external drive keeps your PC smooth.
7. System Restore (Optional)
- If your PC is still slow and other steps don’t help, use a restore point
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Open System Restore
- Select a restore point to bring your system back to a stable state
System Restore allows you to undo recent changes without losing your important files. This is very helpful when an update causes serious performance issues.
Tips to Avoid a Slow PC After Windows Updates
- Keep drivers updated regularly
- Control which apps run at startup
- Use Windows Disk Clean-up and optimization tools frequently
- Always keep a backup of important files
Following these habits prevents most slowdowns and keeps your PC running smoothly after every update.
Conclusion
A slow PC after a Windows update is common, but it is fixable. By checking Task Manager, updating drivers, cleaning temporary files, managing startup apps, and scanning for malware, you can restore your PC’s speed.
If these steps don’t work, using System Restore or resetting the PC can bring it back to a stable state. For more detailed guides and tools to optimize your PC performance, you can visit MiniTool System Booster. Following these simple tips ensures that your PC remains fast and smooth even after Windows updates.