How to Turn Off Background Apps in Windows 11

Introduction

Windows 11 brings a sleek and modern interface to the world of operating systems, but it also introduces some changes and updates to the way you manage apps and processes running in the background. Background apps can be convenient, as they allow certain applications to keep running even when you’re not actively using them. However, they can also drain your system resources and impact performance. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to turn off background apps in Windows 11, helping you regain control over your system’s performance.

Why Turn Off Background Apps?

Background apps run silently, consuming system resources, and can reduce the overall performance of your computer. Turning off unnecessary background apps can improve your PC’s speed and responsiveness, as well as help extend battery life on laptops. Additionally, by disabling background apps, you can enhance your privacy and reduce network data usage.

Here’s how you can manage background apps in Windows 11:

Method 1: Using the Windows 11 Settings

1. Access the Settings Menu: Click on the Windows icon in the taskbar or press the “Win + I” keyboard shortcut to open the Windows 11 Settings.
2. Go to Privacy: In the Settings window, select “Privacy” from the list of options.
3. Select Background apps: On the left sidebar, click on “Background apps.” This will take you to the screen where you can control which apps run in the background.
4. Manage App Permissions: You’ll see a list of apps with toggles next to them. Toggle off the apps that you don’t want running in the background. This action will disable them from using system resources when not in use.
5. Close the Settings Window: After you’ve adjusted the background app settings to your preference, you can simply close the Settings window, and the changes will be saved automatically.

Method 2: Using the Task Manager

1. Access Task Manager: Press “Ctrl + Shift + Esc” on your keyboard to open the Task Manager. You can also right-click on the taskbar and select “Task Manager” from the context menu.
2. View Background Processes: In the Task Manager, click on the “More Details” button to expand the window and reveal more options.
3. Navigate to the Background Processes Tab: Click on the “Processes” tab and then select the “Background processes” option on the left-hand side.
4. Disable Background Apps: You will see a list of background apps currently running. Right-click on any app you want to stop and select “End task.” This will terminate the app’s background process.
5. Confirm Your Decision: A warning will pop up, asking if you want to end the task. Click “End process” to confirm.

Conclusion

Turning off background apps in Windows 11 is a straightforward process and can significantly enhance your system’s performance and battery life while also offering better control over your privacy. By following the methods outlined in this article, you can effectively manage which apps run in the background, tailoring your system to your specific needs. Keep in mind that some background apps are necessary for the proper functioning of your computer, so it’s essential to strike a balance between optimization and functionality.