Discover Microsoft’s Most Underrated App for Windows

Every time I boot up my Windows PC for the first time or after a reset, I usually uninstall several pre-installed applications. Many do not serve a purpose for me, or I have found superior alternatives. This sentiment is shared by many users who prefer a more streamlined approach to their software environment.

Interestingly, there is a noteworthy application from Microsoft that is not included by default but definitely deserves a spot on every Windows PC—the Microsoft PC Manager. I discovered this utility by chance and have since recommended it to all my friends who are Windows enthusiasts. It’s truly an underappreciated tool that Microsoft should consider bundling with every new PC.

What Is Microsoft PC Manager?

Microsoft PC Manager website home page with a download button.

Microsoft PC Manager serves as a comprehensive utility toolkit that helps users maintain, optimize, and monitor various health metrics of their Windows systems. Its user-friendly dashboard interface organizes tools for system health checks, storage management, and pop-up management, among others.

This official Microsoft application boasts numerous features designed to enhance its usability, ensuring it fits naturally with both Windows 10 and Windows 11. The implementation requires minimal setup, allowing new and seasoned users to onboard smoothly right away.

How to Install Microsoft PC Manager

Easy to Install, Easier to Use

If you expect the installation process to be tedious and complicated, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. Installing Microsoft PC Manager is remarkably simple and can be done in under five minutes. Follow these straightforward steps:

Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows PC.
In the search bar, type PC Manager.
Select Microsoft PC Manager from the search results.
Once the app page is displayed, click install.

Your installation will proceed quickly due to the app’s small size. You’ll be notified once it’s ready to use. You can then access PC Manager directly from the notification, through a desktop shortcut, or via the Start menu.

What Features Does Microsoft PC Manager Offer?

Upon launching Microsoft PC Manager, you’ll discover an intuitive design that categorizes all options and menus, providing easy access to various utilities.

Home

The Home dashboard features essential tools for optimizing and maintaining your system. The primary option available is the PC booster, which closes unnecessary background processes to enhance performance. Additionally, the Health Check feature monitors your PC’s temperature, allowing you to implement recommended settings to avoid overheating.

The Home dashboard also includes sections for Monitoring Active Processes, a Deep Cleanup to reclaim storage space, and a Startup menu for managing boot services that may hinder startup speed.

Protection

The Protection tab consolidates all system updates and security checks. Here, you can scan your PC for potential virus threats, check for necessary drivers and Windows updates, and even reset browser settings if needed. This section also provides tools for assessing your network health and restoring default Taskbar configurations if a mistake has been made in application management.

Storage

Within the Storage tab, users gain access to multiple features focused on optimizing and managing disk space. A deep cleanup can be initiated, where PC Manager utilizes Windows’ storage manager to identify and suggest files for deletion to free up additional space.

You can also delete redundant, large, or duplicate files while analyzing their storage footprint. Enabling Storage Sense allows automated cleanup under defined conditions, making it easier to keep your system clutter-free.

Apps

The Apps tab provides various controls that can significantly influence your computer’s performance. You can manage which applications run at startup, preventing unnecessary programs from loading initially. Furthermore, it allows for the complete removal of background applications that may be consuming resources.

This section is particularly useful if your PC is experiencing slow boot times or low storage space, making it an essential feature for optimization.

Toolbox

The final tab is the Toolbox, which contains quick-access tools for tasks such as taking screenshots, recording audio, toggling captions, and launching Notepad or a calculator.

By enabling a floating toolbar on your desktop, you make these utilities even more accessible, allowing for effortless completion of these tasks regardless of what other applications you may have open.

Make Managing Your Windows PC Simple with PC Manager

Microsoft PC Manager effectively addresses many overlooked aspects of PC maintenance and optimization. It handles common issues like residual files left behind after updates, ensuring users do not have to rummage through their system directories. This essential tool simplifies the management of your Windows environment, making it more streamlined and user-friendly.

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