If you’re tired of your computer running slowly, turning off background apps in Windows 11 can help. Background apps can consume your PC’s memory and battery life, even when you’re not actively using them. To disable these apps, simply navigate to the Settings menu, select Apps, and then adjust the Background Apps settings. This quick process will allow you to manage which apps run in the background, ensuring your computer runs more efficiently.
How to Turn Off Background Apps in Windows 11
Disabling unnecessary background apps can free up system resources and extend battery life. Follow these steps to easily turn off background apps in Windows 11.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open the Settings app.
The Settings app is your command center for customizing your Windows 11 experience. Here, you can manage everything from your network connections to your display settings.
Step 2: Select Apps
In the Settings window, click on the ‘Apps’ option from the sidebar.
The Apps section is where you can manage all the applications installed on your computer. From here, you’ll have access to app-specific settings and permissions.
Step 3: Click on Apps & Features
Under Apps, choose ‘Apps & Features’ to see a list of installed applications.
This list provides detailed information about each app, such as size and installation date, making it easier to decide which apps you might want to disable.
Step 4: Choose an App
Scroll through the list and click on the app you wish to disable from running in the background.
Selecting an app opens up more settings and options, allowing you to tailor each app’s behavior to your needs.
Step 5: Adjust Background Permissions
After selecting an app, click ‘Advanced options,’ then choose ‘Never’ under Background apps permissions.
This setting prevents the app from running in the background, helping to conserve your system’s resources. You can always change this setting back if necessary.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your selected apps will no longer run in the background. This can lead to improved system performance and battery life, especially if you often work with multiple apps open. Not only can it make your device faster, but it can also extend the time you can go between charges.
Tips for Turning Off Background Apps in Windows 11
- Evaluate which apps are essential and only keep those running in the background.
- Regularly check the Background Apps settings to ensure they’re optimized.
- Consider the impact on notifications, as some apps might not send alerts if disabled.
- Use the Task Manager to monitor resource usage and identify resource-hungry apps.
- Be cautious with apps related to security, as disabling them might reduce protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I turn off all background apps at once?
No, Windows 11 requires you to adjust settings for each app individually. This ensures you have control over which apps can run in the background.
Will turning off background apps affect app performance?
Disabling background apps can improve overall system performance. However, it might delay notifications or updates for those specific apps.
How do I know which apps are running in the background?
You can use the Task Manager to see currently running apps and their resource usage, helping you make informed decisions about which to disable.
What if I want to re-enable a background app?
Simply follow the same steps and change the Background apps permissions back to ‘Always’ or ‘Power optimized.’
Does disabling background apps save battery life?
Yes, it helps to conserve battery life, especially on laptops, by reducing unnecessary resource usage.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Select Apps.
- Click on Apps & Features.
- Choose an App.
- Adjust Background Permissions.
Conclusion
Mastering how to turn off background apps in Windows 11 can be a game-changer for your PC’s performance. This simple adjustment can have a significant impact, helping your computer run smoother and your battery last longer. It’s like giving your computer a breath of fresh air, allowing it to operate without the clutter of unnecessary tasks. While some apps indeed need to run in the background for full functionality, many do not, and managing this effectively puts you in control of your device’s capabilities.
As you become more familiar with these settings, you’ll notice the benefits in speed and efficiency. It’s also worthwhile to make a habit of periodically reviewing your background apps, as new apps may occasionally slip through the cracks. And remember, this is just one piece of the puzzle in optimizing your device; staying informed about other system settings can further enhance your Windows 11 experience. So why not take a moment to explore further? Dive into your settings, experiment with adjustments, and see how much more you can get from your computer.
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
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