How to Clean Windows PC Manually and Improve Performance

Is your Windows PC running slower than usual? Over time, unnecessary files, outdated settings, and background processes can clog up your system, impacting performance. Manually cleaning your Windows operating system can restore its speed and efficiency without relying on third-party software. This comprehensive guide walks you through how to clean Windows 10 or Windows 11 manually. Follow these steps to declutter your system, boost performance, and keep your PC running smoothly.

Why Clean Windows OS Manually?

Cleaning your Windows OS manually offers several benefits:

• Free Up Disk Space: Remove temporary files, old updates, and junk data.
• Improve Performance: Reduce background processes to speed up your PC.
• Enhance Privacy: Clear caches and logs that store personal data.
• Avoid Third-Party Tools: Maintain control without risking malware from untrusted cleaners.

Prerequisites for Cleaning Windows OS

Before starting, ensure you have:

• A Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC with administrator access.
• A backup of important files (use an external drive or cloud storage like OneDrive).
• At least 30 minutes to complete the process.
• Basic familiarity with Windows settings and File Explorer.

Note

: Always back up critical data before making system changes to avoid accidental loss.

Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Windows OS Manually

Step 1: Clear Temporary Files

Temporary files can accumulate and take up significant disk space.

1. Open Disk Cleanup: Press Windows + S, type Disk Cleanup, and select it. Choose your main drive (usually C:).
2. Select Files to Delete: Check boxes for Temporary Files, Recycle Bin, Thumbnails, and System Created Windows Error Reporting. Click OK and Delete Files.
3. Clean System Files: In Disk Cleanup, click Clean up system files, select additional items like Windows Update Cleanup, and delete them.

Step 2: Delete Unnecessary System Files

Old Windows update files and caches can slow down your system.

1. Clear SoftwareDistribution Folder: Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and stop the Windows Update service. Navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution in File Explorer, delete all contents, and restart the service.
2. Remove Old Windows Installation: If you upgraded to Windows 11, go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary Files, check Previous Windows installation(s), and remove them.

Step 3: Uninstall Unused Applications

Bloatware and unused apps consume resources and storage.

1. Access Apps List: Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps (Windows 11) or Apps & Features (Windows 10).
2. Uninstall Unnecessary Apps: Sort by size or last used, select unused apps (e.g., pre-installed games or trials), and click Uninstall.
3. Remove Bloatware: For stubborn system apps, use PowerShell. Open PowerShell as administrator, type Get-AppxPackage *appname* | Remove-AppxPackage (replace appname with the app, e.g., xbox).

Step 4: Manage Startup Programs

Too many startup programs can slow boot times.

1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to the Startup tab.
2. Disable Unnecessary Programs: Identify programs with High startup impact (e.g., third-party apps like Spotify), right-click, and select Disable.
3. Check Services: Press Windows + R, type msconfig, go to Services, check Hide all Microsoft services, and disable non-essential third-party services.

Step 5: Clear Browser Cache and Data

Browser caches can accumulate and slow down browsing.

1. Clear Edge Cache: Open Microsoft Edge, go to Settings > Privacy, Search, and Services > Clear Browsing Data, select Cached Images and Files, and clear.
2. Clear Chrome Cache: In Chrome, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data, choose Cookies and Cached Images, and clear.
3. Reset Browser Settings: If issues persist, reset browser settings to default via their respective settings menus.

Step 6: Defragment and Optimize Drives

Fragmented drives can reduce performance on HDDs.

1. Open Defragment Tool: Press Windows + S, type Defragment and Optimize Drives, and select it.
2. Analyze and Optimize: Select your main drive (C:), click Analyze, and then Optimize if fragmentation is high. SSDs are automatically optimized via TRIM.

Step 7: Update Windows and Drivers

Outdated drivers and system files can cause slowdowns.

1. Check for Windows Updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates and install all available updates.
2. Update Drivers: Open Device Manager (press Windows + X), right-click devices like graphics or network adapters, and select Update Driver.
3. Use Manufacturer Tools: For GPUs, use tools like NVIDIA GeForce Experience or AMD Radeon Software for the latest drivers.

Step 8: Disable Unnecessary Visual Effects

Fancy animations can strain lower-end PCs.

1. Adjust Visual Effects: Press Windows + R, type sysdm.cpl, go to the Advanced tab, and click Settings under Performance.
2. Optimize for Performance: Select Adjust for best performance or manually uncheck animations like Fade or slide menus. Click Apply.

Risks and Considerations

• Data Loss: Deleting system files incorrectly can cause issues. Stick to recommended folders and settings.
• System Stability: Disabling critical services may lead to errors. Always hide Microsoft services in msconfig.
• Backup Importance: Ensure all important files are backed up before starting.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Windows PC

• Schedule Regular Cleanups: Run Disk Cleanup monthly to prevent junk file buildup.
• Monitor Storage: Use Settings > System > Storage to enable Storage Sense for automatic cleanup.

Conclusion

Manually cleaning your Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC is a powerful way to boost performance, free up space, and keep your system running smoothly. Use built-in tools like Disk Cleanup and Task Manager to maintain control without third-party risks