While Windows 11 comes equipped with a plethora of features, some default settings can hinder your system’s performance and compromise your privacy. Let’s delve into nine crucial settings you should adjust to enhance your Windows 11 experience, ensuring it runs faster, smoother, and more securely.
1 Show File Extensions for Clear Identification
Windows is notorious for hiding file extensions by default. This practice can lead to confusion, making it hard to identify potentially harmful files that may masquerade as innocuous documents. By displaying file extensions, you can easily distinguish and manage different file types.
To reveal file extensions in Windows 11, follow these steps: Open File Explorer, navigate to View > Show, and select File name extensions. This simple toggle will enhance visibility for every file within File Explorer, aiding in security and management.
2 Configure Power Modes for Optimal Performance
Windows offers three power modes: Best Performance, Balanced, and Best Power Efficiency. If your machine feels unresponsive, it might be set to a power-saving mode that prioritizes energy conservation over performance.
Adjust your power settings by accessing Settings > System > Power and Battery and selecting Power Mode. Choose Best Performance when plugged in, and opt for Balanced or Best Performance when on battery to maintain responsiveness and minimize throttling.
3 Increase Refresh Rate for Improved Visuals
To fully leverage your high refresh rate display, ensure that Windows is set to use the maximum supported refresh rate. Often, the system defaults to 60Hz to save battery life, depriving you of smoother visuals.
For displays that support 120Hz or more with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), enable Dynamic Refresh Rate (DRR). This feature allows Windows to adjust the refresh rate on-the-fly, optimizing visual performance based on your activity.
4 Disable Intrusive Windows Ads
Windows 11 often bombards users with unwanted ads, including Xbox notifications and app recommendations. These ads can degrade your overall experience, appearing in the Start menu, File Explorer, and even the Settings page.
To remove these annoyances, follow these steps:
- Settings App: Navigate to Settings > Privacy and security > General and turn off Show me suggested content.
- File Explorer: Open File Explorer, click the three-dots menu, select Options, then the View tab, and uncheck Show sync provider notifications. Remember to click Apply or OK.
- Widgets: Disable the Widget feature by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting Taskbar settings, then toggling Widgets off.
- Start Menu Cleanup: Freely remove all pinned apps from the Start menu to avoid clicking on placeholder shortcuts.
If you’re using Microsoft Edge, consider turning off the News Feed to reduce distractions each time you open the browser.
5 Manage OneDrive Sync Settings
Many users have storage subscriptions with OneDrive but might not fully utilize its potential due to unnecessary syncing of files. It’s wise to manually select which folders to sync, rather than the automatic default settings that can quickly fill your available space.
Here’s how to customize your OneDrive backup:
- Ensure OneDrive is running.
- Click the OneDrive icon in the system tray.
- Select the Gear icon for Settings.
- In the Sync and backup tab, click Manage backup.
- Toggle off any folders you do not wish to sync (such as Documents, Pictures, etc.).
- Finally, click Save changes.
6 Personalize Your Taskbar
While Windows 11 allows you to center your taskbar, it limits movement to one position. For those who prefer customization, try using a third-party tool, Windhawk, which adds features like a vertical taskbar and options for grouping app windows more flexibly.
Additionally, enhance your taskbar by hiding the Search and Task View buttons through Taskbar settings for a cleaner interface—everything you need is just a shortcut away.
7 Enable and Calibrate HDR for Richer Visuals
If your setup includes an HDR-compatible display and you’d like to enhance your visual experience, calibration can significantly improve HDR content quality. Use the Windows HDR calibration app to properly configure your display settings for HDR gaming and media consumption.
8 Modify Your Default Search Engine
Microsoft may favor Bing, but many users prefer alternatives for their reliability and privacy. While changing the default search engine in Edge is straightforward, modifying the Start menu search settings involves a bit of registry tweaking.
Here’s a quick guide to switch your default search engine:
- Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit OK to open Registry Editor. Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER > Software > Policies > Microsoft > Windows > Explorer. - Right-click the Explorer folder, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it DisableSearchBoxSuggestions.
- Double-click this new entry, set Value data to 1, and click OK.
- Finally, restart File Explorer from Task Manager by selecting the Processes tab and clicking Restart task.
9 Enhance Features by Installing PowerToys
Though this isn’t a traditional settings change, installing PowerToys can greatly enhance your user experience with a variety of utilities designed for power users.
Some standout tools include PowerToys Run, a quick launcher for apps and files, Awake, which keeps your PC awake indefinitely, and Color Picker, ideal for design work. PowerToys substantially speeds up common tasks, making your workflow much more efficient.
By implementing these adjustments, you can significantly improve your productivity, minimize frustrations, and create a comfortable workspace. Tackle these essential settings today for a better Windows 11 experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I show file extensions in Windows 11?
To display file extensions in Windows 11, open File Explorer, navigate to View > Show, and check File name extensions. This will allow you to see the complete file names, including their extensions.
2. Can I change the power mode setting on my laptop?
Yes! Change your power mode by going to Settings > System > Power and Battery, then selecting Power Mode. You can choose between Best Performance, Balanced, or Best Power Efficiency based on your needs.
3. What is PowerToys, and why should I install it?
PowerToys is a suite of utilities that enhance Windows functionality. It includes features like a fast application launcher and tools to improve productivity by streamlining tasks. Installing PowerToys is highly recommended for users looking to maximize their Windows experience.
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