Windows 11 Slow After Updating: How to Fix It

First: give it 48 hours

After a big update, Windows indexes, optimizes and downloads drivers in the background for 1-2 days. If it's slow right after updating, use it normally for two days plugged in before touching anything: half the cases fix themselves.

Drivers after the update

If it's still slow after two days, the culprit is usually a driver the update left generic (graphics above all). Go to Windows Update → Advanced options → Optional updates and install the driver ones, or better: download graphics and chipset drivers from the manufacturer. Reboot and compare.

Trim effects and background

Windows 11 brings more animations and widgets than 10. In Settings → Accessibility → Visual effects disable transparency and animations; drop dashboard widgets if you don't use them. Noticeable on modest machines, and you lose nothing useful. More ideas in the slow PC guide.

Roll back (10 days)

If you upgraded from Windows 10 to 11 less than 10 days ago, you can go back: Settings → System → Recovery → Go back. After 10 days Windows deletes the copy and it's no longer possible (only formatting). Don't wait until day 11 to decide.

When to call a technician

If it's the same after drivers and trims, or the update left something broken (no wifi, no sound, blue screens: see blue screen), a technician narrows it in minutes reading logs and drivers. Free diagnosis here.

FAQ

Is it normal to be slow after updating?

Yes the first 1-2 days (indexing and drivers in background). After that, it's not normal.

Can I go back to Windows 10?

Only within 10 days of upgrading, from Recovery. After that it's formatting.

Are Windows Update drivers enough?

Sometimes. For graphics and chipset, manufacturer's are better.

Is Windows 11 worth it on an old PC?

If 10 ran fine and 11 drags it, consider going back within the window or staying where you ran well.

Related guides

• My slow PC
• Blue screen on Windows
• All repair guides