Enhancing Performance on Windows 11: Key Insights
If you’re focused on maximizing performance in Windows 11, recent evaluations indicate that the latest version has made significant strides compared to its predecessor, Windows 10 22H2. In our August analysis, we noted a marked improvement in overall performance for Windows 11 24H2, signaling that Microsoft’s commitments to enhancing user experience are beginning to bear fruit.
Identifying Performance Limiting Factors
Despite these enhancements, it is essential to be aware of certain default settings within Windows 11 that could impede system performance. Microsoft itself has recognized that some visual effects, left enabled, can detract from system efficiency. The company has provided guidance on how to disable these features for better performance, which is particularly beneficial for users with lower-spec or older devices that are especially vulnerable to resource strain.
The Auto Discovery Feature: A Double-Edged Sword
A recent highlight from security researcher and X user Enderman brings to light the impact of the default-enabled auto discovery feature in Windows 11. This function can significantly degrade File Explorer performance, especially when navigating folders containing a large number of files. The system’s need to process extensive data can lead to frustrating slowdowns.
The stupid «Auto-Discovery» feature is still turned on by default in Windows 11. Thanks to it, Windows Explorer is disgustingly slow in folders with many files. You can only fix this problem via a registry hack. The fix is in on the screenshot and in the reply.pic.twitter.com/juin34Gm8D
— Enderman (@endermanch) October 21, 2025
Registry Tweaks for Improved File Explorer Performance
Enderman provided valuable insight into how users can deactivate this feature through a simple Registry modification. By creating a Registry entry (.reg file) and adjusting the “FolderType”value, users can effectively turn off the auto-discovery function for all folders, enhancing overall performance in File Explorer.
Create a.reg file and insert the following: [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Classes\Local Settings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell\Bags\AllFolders\Shell] “FolderType”=”NotSpecified” Run the file, merge the changes and that will turn off auto-discovery for folders in Explorer.
— Enderman (@endermanch) October 21, 2025
Disabling Bing Integration in Start Menu Search
In addition to the auto discovery issue, another user brought up the Start menu’s search feature, which frequently prioritizes online content from Bing instead of effectively searching local files. Similar to the auto discovery feature, this can also be disabled through Registry modifications.
You can also disable the Start menu searchbox sending what you type to Bing, making it slow: https://t.co/UUPdwIhOzn
— Henk Poley (@HenkPoley) October 21, 2025
Proceed with Caution
When considering these adjustments, it’s critical to approach Registry modifications with caution. Incorrect changes can lead to severe issues with your Windows installation. Therefore, always back up your Registry prior to implementing any modifications.
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