My PC lags alot

Check Task Manager while the slowdown is happening to identify whether CPU, memory, disk, or GPU is reaching its limit, then apply the matching fix below.

1. Identify what is slowing the PC

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Select Processes, then click the CPU, Memory, Disk, and GPU column headings to sort each one.
3. Keep Task Manager open while doing normal work and while running a game.
4. Note:
   • Which resource remains near its maximum.
   • Which process is using it.
   • Whether the slowdown occurs only in games or everywhere.

Microsoft specifically recommends Task Manager’s Processes, Performance, and Startup apps pages for finding resource-heavy processes.^1^

2. Apply the matching fix

• A nonessential program uses high CPU, memory, disk, or GPU: close it from Task Manager. Then open Startup apps, right-click unnecessary programs, and select Disable. Do not end Windows system processes.
• Memory is nearly full: close browser tabs and unused applications. If normal work consistently consumes almost all installed memory, additional RAM may be necessary.
• Disk stays near 100%: go to Settings > System > Storage. Run Storage Sense, review Temporary files, and remove only files you no longer need. Low storage space can reduce performance.^1^
• GPU is saturated only during games: lower the game’s resolution, shadows, render distance, and other graphics settings.
• CPU or GPU usage is high and the PC becomes very hot: ensure its vents are unobstructed. Persistent performance loss under heat may require inspection of cooling hardware.

3. Update Windows and drivers

For Windows 11:

1. Open Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
2. Install available updates.
3. Open Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates.
4. Install applicable driver updates and restart.

For Windows 10, use Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, so moving to Windows 11 is recommended when the hardware supports it.^1^

For graphics drivers not offered by Windows Update, use the PC or GPU manufacturer’s driver intended for the exact model. Avoid the model-specific driver links or third-party removal tools intended for another computer.

4. Adjust power and game graphics settings

When connected to power, select:

• Windows 11: Settings > System > Power & battery > Power mode > Best performance.
• Windows 10: search for Power Options, open Show additional plans, and select High performance.

This consumes more power and can make a laptop run warmer.^1^

If the PC runs Windows 11 and has multiple GPUs:

1. Open Settings > System > Display > Graphics.
2. Select the affected game and choose Options.
3. Select High performance, save, and restart the game.
4. For DirectX 10 or 11 games running windowed or borderless, enable Optimizations for windowed games under Graphics > Default settings.^2^

5. If no single process explains the lag

• Run a malware scan: Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Quick scan on Windows 11.^1^
• Test with unnecessary startup applications disabled. If performance improves, re-enable items in groups until the conflicting application is identified. Microsoft’s clean-boot isolation method recommends testing half the disabled items at a time.^3^
• If usage is normal but performance remains poor, record the Windows version, PC model, CPU, RAM, GPU, drive type, free storage, and the Task Manager percentages during lag. Those details are needed to distinguish software interference from hardware that cannot meet the workload.

References

1. [Windows 10](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/experience/performance-optimization/tips-to-improve-pc-performance-in-windows)
2. Optimizations for windowed games in Windows 11 | Microsoft Support
3. [Windows 10](https://support.microsoft.com/windows/experience/startup-boot/how-to-perform-a-clean-boot-in-windows)