Frequently Asked Question

When your Windows 11 computer feels slow, a nearly full hard drive and too many programs running in the background are the most common causes. Work through these steps in order - they take just a few minutes and often make a big difference.

Step 1: Restart your PC first

1. Click the Start button (Windows logo on the taskbar).
2. Click the Power icon.
3. Click Restart and wait for Windows to come back up.

A full restart clears out memory and closes background programs. Try your computer again - if it's still slow, continue below.

Step 2: Check your storage and turn on cleanup

1. Click Start, then click Settings (the gear icon). If you don't see it, type "Settings" into the search box.
2. Click System on the left, then click Storage.
3. Wait a moment while Windows shows what is using your space. A bar near the top shows how full your drive is.
4. Turn on Storage Sense (the switch near the top) to let Windows automatically delete temporary files over time.
5. Click any category such as "Temporary files" to review and remove files you no longer need.

Step 3: Run Disk Cleanup

1. Click Start and type "Disk Cleanup", then open it.
2. If asked, choose the drive (usually C:) and click OK.
3. Check the boxes for items like "Temporary files", "Recycle Bin", and "Temporary Internet Files".
4. Click OK, then click Delete Files to confirm.

Step 4: Empty the Recycle Bin

1. Find the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
2. Right-click it and choose "Empty Recycle Bin".
3. Click Yes to confirm. Deleted files are removed for good, freeing up space.

Tips:

• Close browser tabs and programs you aren't using - each one uses memory.
• If your drive is nearly full (the storage bar is red), moving large files or photos to OneDrive can free up a lot of space.
• Too many programs starting up at login can also slow things down. Windows updates often include speed fixes, too. We have separate Help Desk articles on managing startup apps and installing Windows updates if you want to tackle those next.
• Give it time after updates: your PC may run a little slower for a few minutes right after installing updates while it finishes working in the background.

If you're still having trouble, contact the Jersey College Help Desk at 201-645-1164 or itsupport@jerseycollege.edu.