Windows 11 delivers a modern interface, but it also comes loaded with unnecessary apps, background services, and system suggestions that many users never use. These extras quietly consume memory, slow down startup time, and reduce overall system responsiveness.
This guide explains how to debloat Windows 11 safely using proven, manual methods that do not break updates, security features, or core system functions
What Debloating Windows 11 Actually Means
Debloating does not mean stripping Windows to its core or removing critical components. A proper debloat focuses on:
- Removing unused built-in apps
- Disabling unnecessary startup programs
- Turning off background activity and suggestions
- Reducing telemetry and system noise
When done correctly, Windows 11 runs faster and feels cleaner without losing stability.
See also: How to Install PowerShell 7 on Windows PC (Windows 10 & 11)
Step 1: Uninstall Unnecessary Built-in Apps
Windows 11 installs several apps by default that many users never open. Removing these apps frees disk space and reduces background processes.
How to uninstall built-in apps
- Open Settings
- Go to Apps → Installed apps
- Review the app list
- Click the three-dot menu next to an app
- Select Uninstall
Apps you can safely remove
- Clipchamp
- Microsoft News
- Microsoft Tips
- Weather
- People
- Maps
- Phone Link (if unused)
- Xbox apps (if gaming is not required)
Apps you should keep
- Microsoft Store
- Microsoft Edge
- Windows Security
- WebView Runtime
Removing these system apps can break updates or core Windows features.
Step 2: Disable Startup Apps to Speed Up Boot Time
Many apps launch automatically when Windows starts. These apps slow boot time and consume memory immediately.
How to disable startup apps
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
- Open the Startup apps tab
- Check the Startup impact column
- Right-click unnecessary apps
- Select Disable
Safe startup apps to disable
- Spotify
- Discord
- Adobe updaters
- Game launchers
- OneDrive (optional)
Disabling startup apps does not uninstall them. It only stops automatic launching.
Step 3: Stop Apps from Running in the Background
Many Windows apps continue running even after closing them. Disabling background activity improves battery life and performance.
How to disable background apps
- Open Settings
- Go to Apps → Installed apps
- Select an app
- Click Advanced options
- Set Background app permissions to Never
Apply this setting only to non-essential apps.
Step 4: Turn Off Ads, Suggestions, and Tracking
Windows 11 includes system-wide suggestions, promotional notifications, and diagnostic tracking.
Disable diagnostic data
- Open Settings → Privacy & security
- Click Diagnostics & feedback
- Turn off:
- Send optional diagnostic data
- Tailored experiences
Disable Start menu suggestions
- Go to Settings → Personalization → Start
- Turn off Show recommendations
Disable notification tips
- Open Settings → System → Notifications
- Turn off Tips and suggestions
These changes reduce background activity and visual clutter.
Step 5: Remove Widgets and Chat from the Taskbar
Widgets and Chat constantly run background services even when unused.
How to disable Widgets and Chat
- Right-click the taskbar
- Select Taskbar settings
- Turn off:
- Widgets
- Chat
This step reduces RAM usage and background CPU load.
Step 6: Disable Unnecessary Windows Services (Safe List)
Some Windows services exist for specific hardware or enterprise use cases. Disabling unused services improves efficiency.
How to manage services
- Press Win + R
- Type
services.msc - Press Enter
- Double-click a service
- Set Startup type to Manual or Disabled
Services safe to disable if unused
- Xbox services
- Fax
- Retail Demo Service
- Windows Insider Service
- Touch Keyboard and Handwriting Service (non-touch PCs)
Never disable Windows Update, networking, or security services.
Step 7: Use a Debloat Script (Optional, Advanced Users)
Advanced users can use trusted PowerShell utilities to automate debloating.
Important precautions
- Create a restore point before running any script
- Avoid unknown GitHub scripts
- Do not remove Microsoft Store or Defender
Community-tested tools focus on app removal and telemetry reduction without breaking updates.
What to Expect After Debloating Windows 11
After completing these steps, Windows 11 typically shows:
- Faster boot times
- Lower idle RAM usage
- Reduced background CPU activity
- Cleaner Start menu and notifications
The system remains stable and update-compatible.
FAQs
Is it safe to debloat Windows 11?
Yes. Debloating Windows 11 is safe when you avoid removing core components like Microsoft Store, Windows Security, and Windows Update services.
Does debloating Windows 11 improve performance?
Debloating Windows 11 reduces RAM usage, speeds up startup time, and lowers background CPU activity, especially on low- and mid-range systems.
Can debloating Windows 11 break updates?
Manual debloating does not break updates if system apps and Windows Update services remain enabled.
Should beginners use debloat scripts on Windows 11?
Beginners should avoid aggressive debloat scripts. Manual debloating provides better control and prevents system instability.
How much RAM can debloating Windows 11 save?
Debloating Windows 11 can free around 1 to 1.5 GB of RAM on idle systems, depending on installed apps and services.
Do I need to reinstall Windows after debloating?
No. Debloating Windows 11 does not require reinstalling the operating system.
Is debloating Windows 11 good for laptops?
Yes. Debloating Windows 11 improves battery life and reduces heat by limiting background activity on laptops.
For most users, manual debloating provides the best balance between performance and safety. Automated scripts should only be used on secondary systems or by experienced users.
