Are you noticing sluggish internet speeds or lag during online gaming and streaming sessions on your Windows 11 PC? Network performance isn’t just about having fast internet—your Windows settings and system condition play a huge role too. This guide walks you through the most effective ways to optimize your Windows 11 network performance, using proven best practices. Ideal for intermediate users, it covers hands-on tweaks, built-in tools, and third-party utilities to help you get the most from your connection.
Why is Network Performance Important on Windows 11?
Fast, reliable network performance means quicker downloads, smoother streaming, less buffering, and a better experience in online applications. Windows 11 introduces new networking features, but default settings may not always match your needs. Tuning these settings can unlock hidden speed and responsiveness.
What Built-in Windows 11 Features Can Boost Your Network?
1. Update Your Network Drivers
Outdated network drivers can bottleneck your connection.
– Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager
– Expand Network adapters
– Right-click your adapter and choose Update driver
– Select Search automatically for drivers
If Windows finds an update, install it and reboot.
2. Enable or Fine-Tune QoS (Quality of Service)
Windows 11 supports QoS, allowing you to prioritize important network traffic.
– Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter
– Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > QoS Packet Scheduler
– Double-click Limit reservable bandwidth
– Select Enabled and set the bandwidth limit to 0% to ensure all your bandwidth is available for use
3. Adjust Power Settings for Maximum Performance
Network adapters may power down to save energy, affecting speed.
– Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options
– Set your plan to High Performance
– Click Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings
– Under Wireless Adapter Settings, set Power Saving Mode to Maximum Performance
How Do TCP Tweaks Improve Network Speeds?
1. Enable Large Send Offload (LSO)
LSO lets network cards handle data segmentation, reducing CPU load.
– Open Device Manager, expand Network adapters
– Right-click your NIC > Properties
– Under Advanced tab, locate Large Send Offload v2 (IPv4 and IPv6)
– Set both to Enabled
2. Disable Windows Auto-Tuning if Necessary
Auto-Tuning improves throughput but can conflict with some routers or firewalls.
– Open Command Prompt as Administrator
– Run:
netsh int tcp show global
– If Receive Window Auto-Tuning Level is set to normal, test disabling it:
netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=disabled
– Test your speeds. If performance worsens, revert with:
netsh int tcp set global autotuninglevel=normal
Can Third-Party Utilities Help with Network Optimization?
Absolutely. Glary Utilities offers a comprehensive suite of tools to optimize not just your network, but your entire system. With its built-in Network Optimizer, you can quickly tweak advanced settings without digging through obscure menus.
– Download and install Glary Utilities
– Launch the program and click on “Advanced Tools”
– Select “Network” > “Internet Accelerator”
– Follow the on-screen recommendations, apply suggested optimizations, and reboot if necessary
Glary Utilities can also clear unnecessary system junk, repair registry issues, and manage startup programs—all of which can indirectly improve network speed by freeing up system resources.
What Real-World Problems Can These Tweaks Solve?
Example 1: Laggy Online Gaming
By updating network drivers, enabling LSO, and setting power options to maximum, gamers often notice reduced ping and fewer disconnects.
Example 2: Slow File Transfers Over LAN
Disabling unnecessary background apps with Glary Utilities and optimizing QoS can make large file transfers between PCs much faster.
Example 3: Inconsistent Streaming Quality
Clearing system junk, managing startup apps, and enabling all available bandwidth for user tasks ensure better streaming and less buffering.
What Ongoing Maintenance Keeps Network Performance Optimal?
– Regularly run Glary Utilities to clean up junk files and optimize settings
– Keep Windows and network drivers up to date
– Check for firmware updates for your router
– Schedule monthly reviews of power and adapter settings
Final Thoughts
Optimizing network performance on Windows 11 is not just about buying faster internet—it’s about ensuring your PC is set up to take full advantage of your connection. By combining built-in Windows tweaks with the powerful features of Glary Utilities, you can achieve pro-level results with minimal hassle. Commit to regular maintenance and you’ll enjoy consistently fast, reliable networking for all your online activities.