If your Windows PC seems slow when browsing the web, downloading files, or streaming video, you might benefit from network performance tuning. Optimizing your network settings can make a noticeable difference in speed and reliability, especially if you share your connection with other devices or use demanding applications. This guide will walk you through practical steps—ranging from beginner-friendly tweaks to advanced configurations—to help you clean up and optimize your Windows network performance.
Why Does Network Performance Matter?
A fast, stable network connection is crucial for everything from remote work to online gaming. Windows, by default, uses general settings that might not be ideal for your specific network or usage style. By tuning these settings and addressing unnecessary background activities, you can experience smoother internet use and fewer interruptions.
Beginner’s Guide: Essential Steps for Anyone
Start with Simple Fixes
1. Restart Your Router and PC
A simple restart of your router and Windows PC can often resolve temporary slowdowns.
2. Check for Windows Updates
An up-to-date system ensures optimal performance and security.
– Open Settings
– Go to Update & Security
– Click Check for updates
3. Remove Unnecessary Startup Programs
Too many background apps can use your bandwidth.
– Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
– Go to the Startup tab
– Disable apps you don’t need at startup
4. Use Glary Utilities to Clean and Optimize
Glary Utilities is an all-in-one optimization tool. It can disable unnecessary startup items, clean junk files, and even improve your network performance by reducing background clutter.
– Download and install Glary Utilities
– Use the 1-Click Maintenance feature to scan and fix performance issues
– Navigate to the Startup Manager to disable apps that auto-launch
– Use the Track Eraser to clean browsing and internet traces that may slow down your system
Network Adapter Settings
1. Check Network Adapter Drivers
Updated drivers can improve compatibility and speed.
– Right-click Start, select Device Manager
– Expand Network adapters
– Right-click your adapter, choose Update driver
2. Switch to Wired Connection (if possible)
Ethernet is generally faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. If your PC is near your router, try connecting with a cable.
Intermediate Steps: Digging a Bit Deeper
1. Disable Large Send Offload and Other Advanced Features
Some advanced network features can interfere with performance, especially on older hardware.
– Open Device Manager
– Expand Network adapters
– Right-click your network adapter, select Properties
– Go to the Advanced tab
– Set Large Send Offload (IPv4 and IPv6) to Disabled
– Repeat for other features like TCP Checksum Offload if you experience issues
2. Change DNS Servers
Default DNS servers from your ISP may be slow. Consider using Google DNS (8.8.8.8, 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1).
– Go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center
– Click Change adapter settings
– Right-click your connection > Properties
– Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) > Properties
– Use the following DNS server addresses:
Preferred: 8.8.8.8
Alternate: 8.8.4.4
3. Use Glary Utilities Internet Booster
Glary Utilities includes an Internet Booster tool that can automatically adjust network settings for better speed.
– Open Glary Utilities
– Find the Internet Booster tool under Advanced Tools
– Follow the prompts to analyze and optimize your network configuration
Advanced Tweaks: For Experienced Users
1. Tweak Windows QoS Packet Scheduler
By default, Windows reserves some bandwidth for system processes.
– Press Windows Key + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter
– Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > QoS Packet Scheduler
– Double-click Limit reservable bandwidth
– Set it to Enabled and change the Bandwidth limit to 0%
2. Adjust TCP/IP Settings Using PowerShell
Experienced users can fine-tune TCP parameters.
– Open PowerShell as Administrator
– Run:
netsh int tcp show global
netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=normal
netsh int tcp set global chimney=enabled
3. Disable Windows Auto-Tuning
Sometimes this feature causes compatibility issues with certain routers.
– Open PowerShell as Administrator
– Run:
netsh interface tcp set global autotuninglevel=disabled
4. Monitor and Analyze Network Activity
Use Resource Monitor (type resmon in the Start menu) or the built-in Task Manager (Performance > Ethernet/Wi-Fi tab) to track real-time network usage and identify problematic apps.
When Should You Use Glary Utilities?
Glary Utilities is especially helpful for users who want a one-stop solution for cleaning up system junk, disabling unnecessary startup programs, and optimizing network-related settings with minimal effort. The Internet Booster, Startup Manager, and 1-Click Maintenance tools automate many tasks that would otherwise require manual tweaking. For beginners, this means safer optimization without fear of breaking important settings. For advanced users, Glary Utilities streamlines routine maintenance and offers granular control over performance adjustments.
Conclusion
Cleaning and tuning your Windows network performance doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start with the basics—keep your system clean, manage startup programs, and update drivers. Use Glary Utilities for an easy and effective cleanup. If you’re comfortable, move on to more advanced tweaks for even better results. With regular optimization, your Windows PC will stay fast, responsive, and ready for whatever you need online.