Is your PC running sluggishly? Discover effective Windows cleaning tools to rejuvenate your system and enhance performance!
How to Remove Unnecessary Programs
Each Windows installation accumulates programs over time that may never be used again. When you install software for a particular task and then forget about it, it can clutter your system. Windows 11 makes it simple to remove these unnecessary programs directly from the Start menu.
- Open the Start menu and navigate to All applications.
- Scroll through the list and identify programs you no longer need.
- Right-click on these programs and select Uninstall.
However, using the built-in uninstallation process might leave residual files and folders behind. For more effective removal, consider using specialized uninstall tools like Revo Uninstaller or Iobit Uninstaller. These programs can thoroughly track and delete leftover files, folders, and registry entries, ensuring a cleaner system.
Utilizing Powershell to Remove Built-In Windows Apps
Windows 11 automatically installs several built-in apps, such as Skype and Xbox, which often go unused. Uninstalling these apps is not straightforward, as they do not appear in the standard removal interface. Powershell offers a powerful solution.
To uninstall these apps, follow these steps:
1. Type 'Powershell' into the search bar and select Run as administrator.
2. Enter the appropriate command for each app you want to remove.
For example, to remove the Weather app, type
```powershell
Get-AppxPackage *bingweather* | Remove-AppxPackage
```
For other apps, here are their respective commands
- 3D Builder: `Get-AppxPackage *3dbuilder* | Remove-AppxPackage`
- Alarm & Clock: `Get-AppxPackage *windowsalarms* | Remove-AppxPackage`
Using Powershell provides a precise way to manage your installed applications.
Leverage Windows 11’s Storage Sense for Automatic Cleaning
Automatic maintenance is one of the most useful features of Windows 11. Storage Sense helps keep your hard drive clean by managing the automatic deletion of temporary files. Activating this feature is easy
- Go to Settings > System > Storage.
- Turn on the Storage Sense toggle.
In the Storage Sense settings, ensure the following options are enabled
- Clean up temporary files
- Automatically clean up user content
You can even set specific timeframes for how long files can remain in your Downloads folder before they’re deleted. Setting this to 30 days can prevent the accumulation of unused files, making regular maintenance effortless.
Use the Built-in Disk Cleanup Tool
The classic Disk Cleanup tool also remains relevant for regular Windows cleaning. Access it by typing `cleanmgr` in the search box. This tool allows you to clean temporary files, empty the recycle bin, and more, all summarized in a user-friendly interface.
To start
1. Open Disk Cleanup and select the drive you’d like to clean.
2. Click OK and let the tool analyze your drive.
3. Choose the files you’d like to delete (temporary files, system files, etc.) and press Remove Files.
Finding and Deleting Duplicate Photos
Photos can take up significant space on your hard drive, especially when duplicates are involved. Using software designed for this purpose can simplify the removal of duplicate images. Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro stands out in this area, offering capabilities to find and eliminate similar or identical photos.
- The free version allows you to delete up to 15 images at once, while the paid version provides full functionality.
- Regardless of the version, it’s efficient and accurate in detecting duplicates, maximizing your available space.
Resetting Windows 11 for a Fresh Start
If your system has accumulated a significant amount of clutter—like orphaned folders, cache, and unnecessary files—resetting Windows is a viable option. Fortunately, Windows 11 offers a method for reinstallation without needing external media.
1. Navigate to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC.
2. Choose whether to keep your files or remove everything.
3. Follow the prompts to reset and restore your PC to its original state.
Always back up any important files before proceeding with a reset to avoid unintentional data loss.
Conclusion: Consistent Maintenance is Key
Maintaining a clutter-free and efficient PC is essential for optimal performance. Utilizing the right Windows cleaning tools, like Revo Uninstaller, Iobit Uninstaller, Storage Sense, and Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro, along with effective uninstallation processes and regular cleaning schedules, can transition your Windows 11 experience from sluggish to snappy. Make it a habit to tidy up your PC regularly, ensuring its longevity and efficiency.