Windows 10 is a robust operating system, but over time, it can accumulate clutter, slow down, or develop performance issues. Many users unintentionally make mistakes that prevent them from getting the best out of their PC. This article focuses on the top 10 ways to clean and optimize Windows 10 performance, emphasizing common mistakes to avoid and providing practical, step-by-step solutions for both beginners and advanced users.
1. Not Uninstalling Unneeded Programs
Mistake: Many users leave programs they no longer use installed, which can consume system resources and slow down boot times.
Beginner Tip:
– Open the Start menu and go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
– Review the list and uninstall applications you don’t recognize or no longer need.
– Be cautious not to remove critical system utilities or drivers.
Advanced Tip:
– Use Glary Utilities’ “Uninstall Manager” to remove stubborn programs and clean leftover files. This ensures no traces remain that could affect performance.
2. Ignoring Startup Programs
Mistake: Allowing too many programs to start with Windows can significantly slow down boot times.
Beginner Tip:
– Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
– Go to the Startup tab and disable unnecessary startup items.
Advanced Tip:
– Glary Utilities’ “Startup Manager” provides detailed control, showing hidden startup entries and allowing you to delay or remove them safely.
3. Forgetting to Clean Temporary Files
Mistake: Temporary files, caches, and old updates pile up and take valuable disk space.
Beginner Tip:
– Type “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu and run the utility. Select the drive and check boxes for Temporary files, Recycle Bin, and other debris.
Advanced Tip:
– Use Glary Utilities’ “Disk Cleaner” for a deeper scan and to clear more types of temporary files, browser caches, and log files in one go.
4. Not Updating Windows or Drivers
Mistake: Running outdated Windows versions or drivers can cause slowdowns or compatibility issues.
Beginner Tip:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates regularly.
Advanced Tip:
– Update drivers from the manufacturer’s website or use Glary Utilities’ “Driver Manager” to scan and update drivers automatically.
5. Overlooking Hard Drive Health
Mistake: Allowing hard drives to fill up or ignoring errors can slow your system and risk data loss.
Beginner Tip:
– Regularly check available space in File Explorer. Keep at least 20% free for optimal performance.
Advanced Tip:
– Use Glary Utilities’ “Disk Repair” feature to scan for and fix drive errors, and its “Disk Space Analyzer” to locate large, unnecessary files for removal.
6. Not Managing Background Processes
Mistake: Background apps can hog CPU, memory, and network resources.
Beginner Tip:
– Open Task Manager and look for high-usage processes. End tasks that are not required, but avoid ending system-critical tasks.
Advanced Tip:
– Use Glary Utilities’ “Process Manager” for more insight into running processes, including hidden system tasks, and to set priorities or terminate resource hogs.
7. Skipping Regular Registry Cleaning
Mistake: Over time, the Windows Registry accumulates obsolete entries, which may cause errors and slowdowns.
Beginner Tip:
– Avoid manual registry edits unless you are sure. Mistakes can cause system instability.
Advanced Tip:
– Glary Utilities’ “Registry Cleaner” provides safe, automated cleaning. Always back up the registry using the utility’s built-in feature before making changes.
8. Failing to Defragment Hard Drives (HDDs only)
Mistake: Fragmented files on traditional hard drives can slow file access.
Beginner Tip:
– Type “Defragment and Optimize Drives” in the Start menu. Select your HDD (not SSD) and click Optimize.
Advanced Tip:
– Schedule regular defragmentation with Glary Utilities’ “Disk Defrag” tool for improved performance and advanced reporting.
9. Not Disabling Visual Effects
Mistake: Fancy animations and effects can impact performance, especially on older PCs.
Beginner Tip:
– Right-click “This PC” > Properties > Advanced system settings > Performance > Settings. Select “Adjust for best performance” or customize which visual effects to keep.
Advanced Tip:
– Use third-party tools for more granular control, but stick to built-in settings unless advanced tweaking is necessary.
10. Ignoring Malware and Adware
Mistake: Unwanted software and malware can cause severe performance issues and security risks.
Beginner Tip:
– Keep Windows Defender and any other antivirus up to date.
– Perform regular scans.
Advanced Tip:
– Glary Utilities’ “Malware Remover” scans for adware, toolbars, and other potentially unwanted programs that traditional antiviruses might miss.
Final Thoughts: Automate Cleanup with Glary Utilities
One of the biggest mistakes is neglecting regular maintenance because it’s time-consuming. Glary Utilities offers a “1-Click Maintenance” option that automates many of these optimization steps. This is especially useful for beginners who want a hassle-free way to keep their PC running smoothly, but also offers fine-tuned controls for advanced users.
By regularly applying these tips and avoiding the common pitfalls outlined, you can ensure your Windows 10 system remains fast, stable, and reliable.