14. April 2026

How to Disable Apps Running in the Background on Windows 10 & 11

If your computer feels slow, one common cause is too many apps running in the background. These apps use memory, CPU, and battery power—even when you’re not actively using them.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to disable background apps on Windows 10 and Windows 11 to improve performance.

⚡ Why Disable Background Apps?

Background apps can:

• Slow down your PC
• Drain battery life (especially on laptops)
• Use up system resources
• Affect overall performance

Disabling unnecessary apps can help your computer run faster and more efficiently.

🪟 How to Disable Background Apps in Windows 10

Method 1: Using Settings

1. Click Start Menu
2. Go to Settings
3. Click Privacy
4. Select Background apps
5. Turn off:
   • “Let apps run in the background” (to disable all apps)
   • Or toggle individual apps off

Method 2: Disable Startup Apps

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
2. Open Task Manager
3. Go to the Startup tab
4. Right-click unwanted apps → Click Disable

🪟 How to Disable Background Apps in Windows 11

Method 1: App Settings

1. Open Settings
2. Click Apps → Installed apps
3. Find the app you want
4. Click the 3 dots (⋮) → Select Advanced options
5. Under Background app permissions, choose:
   • Never

Method 2: Startup Apps

1. Open Task Manager
2. Go to Startup apps
3. Disable apps you don’t need at startup

🚀 Extra Tips to Improve Performance

• Uninstall unused programs
• Upgrade to an SSD
• Add more RAM
• Run a virus scan
• Keep Windows updated

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

Disabling background apps may affect how certain programs function, including notifications and automatic updates.

Please note:
All actions are performed at your own risk. PC Nest (pcnest.co.uk) accepts no responsibility for any issues, data loss, or system problems that may occur as a result of following this guide.

📞 Need Help?

If your PC is still slow or not performing properly, professional help may be required.

Contact PC Nest for fast and reliable PC repair in London, with same-day service available.

🔗 Explore Our Services

To help you find the right solution quickly, you can explore our full range of computer repair services below:

👉 Need a fast desktop fix? Visit our PC Repair London service page.
👉 Having issues with your laptop? Check our Laptop Repair London page.
👉 Dealing with viruses or malware? Read more on our Virus Removal London page.
👉 Lost important files? See our Data Recovery London service.
👉 Is your computer running slow? Visit our Slow Computer Fix London page.

📰 Learn More in Our Blog

Want helpful tips and troubleshooting guides? Visit our blog for expert advice on common computer problems and performance improvements.

Read our latest guides and tips on the PC Nest Blog