Windows 11 is the latest and greatest operating system from Microsoft, but like any operating system, it can still suffer from memory-related issues. Optimizing memory usage is essential for ensuring your system runs smoothly, particularly for resource-intensive applications and tasks. In this article, I will show you how to optimize the memory in your Windows 11 computer.

Before diving into optimization techniques, it's essential to understand how memory works in Windows 11. RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of volatile memory that temporarily stores data for quick access by the various components. When your system runs low on RAM, it uses a portion of your computer's drive for what is called the Page File (commonly known as Virtual Memory), which is considerably slower than RAM. Therefore, optimizing RAM usage can significantly enhance your PC's performance.

Monitor your memory usage

The first step in optimization is to monitor how your memory is being utilized. Windows 11 provides a built-in Task Manager, which allows you to see which applications are consuming the most memory.

1. Open Task Manager by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting Task Manager or by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. In Task Manager, go to the Processes tab. Here, you can see the memory usage of each application. Look for any apps that are using an amount of memory that seems excessive.

Close background apps

Often, numerous applications and processes run in the background, consuming valuable memory. You can close unnecessary applications to free up resources.

1. Open Task Manager by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting Task Manager or by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. In Task Manager, go to the Processes tab. Here, you can identify applications that are not needed, highlight them, and click End Task to close them. Be careful not to close essential system processes.

Disable Startup programs

Several applications start automatically with Windows 11, which can lead to increased memory usage right from boot. Disabling these unnecessary startup programs can free up memory.

1. Open Task Manager by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting Task Manager or by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. In Task Manager, go to the Startup tab. Here, you can see all programs that automatically launch when your computer starts.
3. Right-click on the applications you don't need at startup and select Disable.

Adjust Virtual Memory settings

When your system runs low on RAM, it can use disk space as Virtual Memory. Adjusting these settings can lead to improved performance.

Go to Settings > System > About, and left-click on Advanced system settings. Under the Performance section, click Settings.

On the Performance Options dialog box, go to the Advanced tab and left-click on Change under Virtual Memory. You can either let Windows manage the size automatically or set a custom size. A good rule of thumb for a custom size is to set the Initial size to 1.5 times the amount of your physical RAM and the Maximum size to 3 times the Initial size.

For more information on Windows 11 Virtual Memory, check out our article How to manage Windows 11 Virtual Memory.

Verify Memory Compression

Windows 11 includes a feature called Memory Compression, which enables the OS to store more data in RAM by compressing unused memory pages. This feature is usually enabled by default, but it's worth verifying. To verify that Memory Compression is in use:

1. Open Task Manager by right-clicking on the Start button and selecting Task Manager or by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. In the left-hand column, left-click on the Performance tab.
3. In the Performance tab, left-click on the Memory section.
4. On the Memory section, look for In use (Compressed). If a value is shown, Memory Compression is active.

You can also check the status of Memory Compression and turn it on or off via PowerShell commands. To use the PowerShell commands, you will need to open PowerShell with admin privileges. The easiest way to do this is with Terminal.

Right-click on the Start button and select Terminal (Admin) from the context menu. By default, Terminal should open to a PowerShell prompt. At the PowerShell prompt, type or cut & paste the following commands and then press Enter.

This command returns the current status.

Get-MMAgent

This command disables Memory Compression.

Disable-MMAgent -mc

This command enables Memory Compression.

Enable-MMAgent -mc

Remember that you have to restart your computer for any of the changes made by the PowerShell commands to take effect.

Upgrade your RAM

If you find that your PC continually struggles with memory-related issues, it may be time to consider a hardware upgrade. Adding more RAM is one of the most effective ways to improve performance, especially for power users or gamers. Before purchasing new RAM:

• Check compatibility - Ensure the RAM you buy is compatible with your motherboard.
• Consider usage - For intensive tasks such as gaming, video editing, or multitasking, upgrading to a minimum of 32GB or 64GB may be beneficial.

For more information on memory upgrades, check out our article How to upgrade or add more memory to your computer.

Optimizing memory usage in Windows 11 is essential for maintaining system performance and efficiency. By monitoring memory usage, closing unneeded applications, adjusting virtual memory settings, and making use of built-in tools and features, you can ensure your PC runs smoothly. If issues persist, consider upgrading your hardware. With these tips, you can enhance your user experience and maximize the capabilities of Windows 11.

I have been getting a lot of questions about what somebody can do if their computer is not compatible with Windows 11, but they are not ready to get a new computer. Microsoft offers a program that provides essential security updates for Windows 10 after its end-of-life date (10/14/2025). Let's take a look at the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10.

The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program was originally introduced by Microsoft for businesses that require more time to transition from an older version of Windows to a newer one. With Windows 10, they have also opened up the ESU program to consumers.

Both versions of the program, whether for consumers or corporations, require Windows 10, version 22H2. What version of the ESU program you can enroll in depends on the type of license you have for Windows 10. Windows 10 Home devices can only choose the Consumer version. Here is a breakdown of the two (2) different versions of the ESU program.

Consumer

• ESU license can be used on up to 10 devices.
• Only has one year of support.
• $30.

Corporate

• ESU license can be used on only one device.
• Can have up to three years of support.
• $61 for the first year, with the price doubling every consecutive year.

For more information on the Extended Security Updates program for Windows 10, follow the links below.

ESU for Consumers

ESU for Corporations

Windows 11 provides users with a range of features designed to enhance accessibility and improve user experience. One of these features is the ability to zoom in on the screen, which can be particularly useful for individuals with visual impairments or anyone who needs a closer look at specific details on their display. In this article, we will show you the various ways you can zoom in on Windows 11.

Windows 11 offers a built-in Magnifier tool that lets users zoom in on content on their screens. This tool is versatile and easy to use, offering various zoom levels and viewing options that can adapt to different situations. Additionally, there are ways to zoom in using keyboard shortcuts, applications, and even web browsers.

Using Magnifier to zoom

The Magnifier tool is the primary method to zoom in on Windows 11. Here’s how to access and utilize it:

How to open Magnifier: Press the Windows logo key + + (plus) on your keyboard. This shortcut will launch Magnifier instantly. You can also type Magnifier in the search bar and select the app from the results.

Adjusting the zoom level: Once Magnifier is open, you can zoom in by pressing the Windows logo key + + (plus) continuously. Each press will increase the zoom level, allowing you to focus on finer details.

Using Magnifier modes: The Magnifier can operate in three (3) different modes:

• Lens Mode: This mode lets you move a magnifying lens around the screen. You’ll see a portion of the screen beneath the lens zoomed in.
• Docked Mode: In this mode, Magnifier will appear docked at the top of your screen, and it will display the magnified view of the area below.
• Full-Screen Mode: This option magnifies the entire screen. You can toggle between these modes by clicking on the settings icon within the Magnifier window and selecting your preferred option.

Panning: In Lens and Full-Screen modes, you can navigate around the screen by pressing and holding the Ctrl key and moving your mouse. This allows you to pan across different sections of the screen without losing the zoom functionality.

Using the on-screen controls: The Magnifier window provides sliders for adjusting the zoom level and settings for adjusting the view, including changing the color invert options to improve visibility.

Using Magnifier keyboard shortcuts to zoom

Windows 11 has several keyboard shortcuts for using Magnifier that come in handy for quickly zooming in or navigating.

• Zoom In: Press the Windows logo key + + (plus).
• Zoom Out: Press the Windows logo key + - (minus).
• Close Magnifier: Press the Windows logo key + Esc.

Using browser features to zoom

If you primarily need to zoom in while browsing the web, modern web browsers offer integrated zoom features:

Zoom inside Google Chrome: To quickly zoom in, press Ctrl + + (plus) to zoom in and Ctrl + - (minus) to zoom out. If you want a complete reset, you can press Ctrl + 0.

Zoom inside Microsoft Edge: Like Chrome, you can use Ctrl + + (plus) to zoom in and Ctrl + - (minus) to zoom out. The browser also allows you to access zoom settings through the menu in the top right corner of the browser.

Zoom inside Mozilla Firefox: Firefox users can apply the same shortcuts, Ctrl + + (plus) to zoom in and Ctrl + - (minus) to zoom out, or reset with Ctrl + 0.

Using app features to zoom

Many applications in Windows 11 also support zoom functionality. For example, in Microsoft Office programs like Word and Excel, you can:

• Zoom in/out on the screen: Use the zoom slider located in the bottom right corner of the window. This slider lets you adjust your view dynamically.
• Using keyboard shortcuts: Many applications also support Ctrl + + (plus) and Ctrl + - (minus) for zooming in and out.

Zooming in on Windows 11 is both easy and highly customizable, thanks to features like Magnifier and built-in shortcuts. Whether working on documents, browsing the web, or interacting with complex graphics, these zooming options can enhance your productivity and overall experience. With these tools, you can adjust your viewing preferences and make Windows 11 work better, regardless of your visual needs.

Windows 11 has brought a fresh interface and features to enhance productivity and user experience. However, many users find that the operating system comes with a plethora of pre-installed apps and features that they may never use. In this article, we'll explore practical techniques to remove bloatware from your Windows 11 computer.

The accumulation of bloatware can lead to slower performance and unnecessary clutter. Whether you’re looking to optimize your system for gaming, productivity, or simply to enjoy a cleaner system, debloating Windows 11 can significantly improve your experience.

What is bloatware?

Bloatware refers to unwanted software that comes pre-installed on your computer. This can include trial software, manufacturer apps, and even Microsoft apps that you might not find useful. While some of these apps may be beneficial to some users, others may find them redundant or irritating. These programs not only consume valuable disk space but can also contribute to slower startup times and increased resource usage.

Why debloat your Windows 11 computer?

Improved performance: Removing unnecessary applications can lead to faster boot times and overall system responsiveness.

Free up disk space: Every gigabyte counts, especially if your device has limited storage. Removing unwanted programs can free up space for more important files and applications.

Enhanced security: Fewer applications mean a smaller attack surface for potential malware or vulnerabilities.

Customization: Debloating allows you to tailor your operating system to fit your specific needs, ensuring that what you have is relevant to your usage.

Things you can do to debloat Windows 11

Manually uninstall nonessential apps

The simplest way to start debloating is to manually remove unneeded programs. To do this:

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings (gear icon).
3. Scroll down the left-hand column and left-click on Apps.
4. In the right-hand column, left-click on Installed apps.
5. From here, you can scroll through the list of installed applications. If you spot something you don’t use, left-click on the three horizontal dots next to it and select Uninstall.

Disable apps that start automatically

Not all applications need to run at startup. By preventing specific apps from launching during boot, you can substantially decrease the time it takes to start up your device.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Left-click on the Startup apps tab.
3. Right-click on any app you don’t need at startup and select Disable.

Use third-party apps to remove bloatware

If you prefer a less manual method, consider using third-party tools designed to help with debloating. Tools like O&O AppBuster and Win11Debloat allow you to easily install or uninstall apps.

• O&O AppBuster lets you select multiple apps to remove at once and also provides protection in case you decide to reinstall them later.
• Win11Debloat is a powerful script that automates much of the process of removing common bloatware.

Note: You should ensure any third-party tool is from a reputable source.

Adjust your privacy settings

Windows 11 offers various privacy settings that can be tweaked to improve performance and security:

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings (gear icon).
3. Scroll down the left-hand column and left-click on Privacy & security.
4. Review the permissions granted to applications and turn off any that you feel are unnecessary, such as Location services (under Location) or Camera.

Turn off suggested apps

Windows 11 sometimes suggests apps on the Start menu, which can be distracting. To turn these off:

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings (gear icon).
3. Scroll down the left-hand column and left-click on Personalization.
4. Scroll down the right-hand column and left-click on Start.
5. Toggle off the options for Show recently added apps and Show most used apps to declutter your Start menu.

Routine maintenance

Once you've performed a debloat, maintaining your system regularly is a good practice. Periodically check for any new applications that may have been installed and apply updates to existing software to keep your system optimal.

Debloating Windows 11 can lead to a more efficient and customized experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can take control of your system and ensure optimal performance tailored to your needs. Whether you prefer manual methods or automated third-party tools, debloating your system can help you reclaim valuable resources and enhance your overall Windows 11 experience.

So you got a new computer and want to get rid of the junkware and bloatware that comes with it but do not want to spend hours trying to clean it up? Or you got a pre-owned computer and want to get rid of its questionable software. In either case, a quick reinstallation of Windows may be the best option.

So, for this article, I am going to assume that you have a new (to you) computer that is fully functional and want to get it back to factory default. In this case, you do not want to save anything and want a fresh Windows installation. As long as your computer can boot normally, you should have no problems.

For this exercise, you will need two (2) USB drives (8GB or larger), one that can be reformatted for the installation media and one for the drivers for your computer. The first thing you need to do is check the activation status and Windows version.

How to check activation and version of Windows

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. Left-click on the Settings (gear icon) app to open it.
3. In the left-hand column, click on System.
4. Scroll down the right-hand column and select Activation. If the Activation state is good, note the version, Home or Pro, and you are ready to proceed.

Download the operating system and drivers

It may seem out of order, but we will get the drivers for your system first, then the OS. Depending on whether your computer is a name-brand system or a custom-built one, you will have to find the correct drivers.

The best bet is to perform a Google search for the make/model of your computer (name-brand) or motherboard (custom-built) to find the support page for your system. Then you can choose which drivers you want to download.

Remember that network adapter drivers (ethernet or wifi) are the minimum driver(s) you will need when the reinstallation is complete. Once you have downloaded the drivers, extract them if they are in a compressed file, and then copy them over to one of the USB drives.

Next, download the Windows Media Creation Tool to create the installation media on the second USB drive. Once you download the tool, insert the second USB drive in to your computer and run the Windows Media Creation Tool. Just follow the prompts to create bootable installation media.

When the Windows Media Creation Tool is finished, leave that USB drive attached to your computer and disconnect any other external drive, including the USB drive with the drivers.

Boot your computer on the install drive

1. With the install media attached, left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. Left-click on the Settings (gear icon) app to open it.
3. In the left-hand column, click on System.
4. Scroll down the right-hand column and select Recovery.
5. In the right-hand column to the right of Advanced startup, left-click on Restart now.
6. When your system restarts, it should boot to the Choose an option screen. There, you click on Use a device.
7. Left-click on the USB drive you used for the installation media.
8. Your system should now boot up on the installation USB drive and start the setup program. Proceed through the setup screens until you get to the Select setup option. Make sure that Install Windows 11 is selected and the I agree that everything is going to be deleted checkbox is checked.
9. When prompted for a product key, select I don't have a product key and proceed with the installation. Windows will download the product key and reactivate once the installation is complete and your computer connects to the Internet.