If you’ve ever noticed your Windows 11 computer running slower than usual or your battery dying faster than expected, background apps might be the culprit. These apps tend to run without you knowing, consuming resources and power. To stop them, you’ll need to dive into your settings and make a few adjustments. It’s easier than it sounds! By the end of this guide, you’ll be a pro at managing your apps, ensuring your PC runs smoothly and efficiently.
How to Stop Apps Running in Background Windows 11
Tired of your computer’s performance taking a hit because of apps you aren’t even using? Follow these steps to stop them in their tracks. This guide will help you regain control over which apps can run in the background on your Windows 11 device.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, click on the Start menu and select “Settings.”
The Settings app is your central hub for controlling various aspects of your Windows environment. By opening it, you’re on your way to managing those pesky background apps.
Step 2: Navigate to Privacy & Security
Go to the left-hand side menu and select “Privacy & Security.”
This section of the settings is where you can make your computer’s environment more secure and private by restricting app activities.
Step 3: Select ‘Background Apps’
Under App Permissions, click on ‘Background Apps.’
Here, you’ll find a list of all the apps that are running in the background. This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Toggle Apps Off
Find the apps you want to stop and toggle their switch to “Off.”
This action prevents the chosen apps from running when you’re not actively using them. It’s like closing a door behind you.
Step 5: Close Settings
Finally, close the Settings window to apply the changes.
By exiting the settings, you’re ensuring that your adjustments take effect immediately, giving your PC a breather.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll likely notice a difference in your computer’s performance. Apps that you’ve restricted won’t hog resources, leading to longer battery life and faster processing speeds.
Tips for Stopping Apps Running in Background Windows 11
- Regularly check which apps are permitted to run in the background to maintain performance.
- Consider disabling apps that you rarely use.
- Be cautious about stopping essential system apps as this might affect performance.
- Use Task Manager to monitor resource usage and identify problematic apps.
- Keep your system updated to benefit from the latest performance improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which apps are running in the background?
You can view active background apps in the ‘Background Apps’ section of the Privacy & Security settings.
Will stopping background apps affect app performance?
Stopping background apps can affect their ability to send notifications or update content while not in use.
Can I stop all apps from running in the background at once?
Windows 11 does not currently offer a universal toggle, so you’ll need to disable them individually.
What if I need an app to run in the background again?
Simply go back to the ‘Background Apps’ settings and toggle the switch back to “On” for that app.
Are there apps that should always run in the background?
Yes, some system apps are necessary for proper operation and should be left running in the background.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Privacy & Security.
- Select ‘Background Apps.’
- Toggle apps off.
- Close Settings.
Conclusion
Managing your background apps is a simple yet effective way to enhance your Windows 11 experience. By following these steps, you ensure that only the apps you need are using resources, which can lead to better overall performance and battery life.
It’s like cleaning out your closet—you might not see the mess when the door’s closed, but it’s there, taking up space. Similarly, background apps can clutter your computer’s resources, even if you aren’t aware of them.
Remember, technology is supposed to make life easier, not more complicated. By taking control of your app settings, you’re making a choice to optimize your device for what matters most to you. And if you ever run into trouble, don’t hesitate to revisit the steps or consult additional resources.
So, the next time you feel your computer lagging, think of this guide. With just a few tweaks, you’ll have your computer running as smoothly as a well-oiled machine.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.