A faster PC does not always require a reinstall. If you use Microsoft Windows 11 Professional purchased from Licensgo, you can free up space, remove unnecessary software and reduce startup times using built-in Windows tools and free utilities. Here are practical steps and a checklist to help you avoid common mistakes.

1What you'll get

A faster system without reinstalling the OS: more free disk space, fewer startup programs and fewer unnecessary background processes.

The instructions use built-in Windows tools (Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense, Task Manager) and trusted free utilities; where useful, we link to guides on backup and recovery.

  • no reinstallation needed;
  • reversible steps with clear explanations;
  • final practical checklist.
Quick note

If you're planning major removals, back up first — see our practical backup guide.

2Step 1 — analyse disk usage and reclaim space

Start in Settings > System > Storage to see what's using space. Enable Storage Sense to remove temporary files automatically and configure its thresholds.

Use Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr) for system files: select ‘Clean up system files’ to safely remove old Windows Update files and previous installations.

  • clean temporary files and system caches;
  • remove old Windows installations if present;
  • empty the Recycle Bin and remove downloads you no longer need.

3Step 2 — remove bloatware and unused programs

Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps and uninstall programs you don't use. To remove several preinstalled apps at once, use bulk removal tools or PowerShell, but only if you're confident.

Keep the drivers, security software and vendor utilities you actually use. If you're unsure, disable the program at startup first instead of uninstalling it permanently.

  • uninstall desktop and modern apps you do not use;
  • do not remove drivers or manufacturer utilities without a backup;
  • if in doubt, disable it at startup instead of uninstalling it.
Safer approach

First disable unknown startup items via Task Manager > Startup, check that the system is stable, then uninstall if everything works.

4Step 3 — cut boot time and background load

Open Task Manager > Startup and disable high-impact apps you do not need immediately after startup. Only check non-critical entries in Services; do not disable Windows services you do not recognise.

Use the ‘Startup impact’ column on the Startup tab to prioritise; on laptops, choose a battery-saving power mode that reduces background activity.

Quick check

After changes, restart and measure boot time with Task Manager. Re-enable items if an app fails to start.

5Step 4 — clean up temporary files and browsers

Clear browser caches and remove extensions you don't use. In each browser, also sign out of duplicate profiles to reduce background syncing.

Run tools like Storage Sense and, if needed, a reputable cleaner for temporary files. Avoid aggressive cleaners that alter the registry unless you know the risks.

  • remove unnecessary browser extensions;
  • clear outdated caches and browsing data;
  • run an antivirus scan after the final clean-up.

6Step 5 — backup and step-by-step checklist

Before any major removal, back up your user data. For reliable disk images, consider tools such as Acronis True Image Premium. For a quick read, see our guide Practical backup strategies.

If you accidentally delete something, see our file recovery guide to understand the limits and your chances of recovery.

  • back up documents and profiles;
  • create a system image before making major changes;
  • check that everything works after each change and keep your backups.
Don't skip this

A disk image saves you time if something goes wrong; keep it offline until you need it.

7Common mistakes and final tips

Common mistakes: uninstalling drivers, deleting unknown folders in C:\Users or using untrusted cleaners. Use the official uninstallers and Windows tools first.

Keep a good antivirus such as ESET NOD32 Antivirus and update drivers from the manufacturer. If the clean-up doesn't help, consider running a system file check (sfc /scannow) before reinstalling.

  • keep your security software up to date;
  • update drivers from the manufacturer's website;
  • consider reinstalling only as a last resort.