How to tune up your Windows 11 laptop for this back-to-school season
These are the best tips to get your computer ready to tackle the new school year.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
•Back to School main hub•Best budget laptops under $500•Best engineering tablets for students•15 features to know in Windows 11•Tips for Grammarly on Windows 11•Grammarly vs. Microsoft Editor
As the new school year approaches, ensuring your laptop is ready to tackle the challenges ahead is important.
OnWindows 11, the system offers many tools and settings to fine-tune your laptop (tablet or desktop computer), regardless of the hardware configuration. For example, you have tools to optimize and free up storage space, improve battery life, boost performance, and settings to ensure your device is secure and provides the features to stay productive.
Thishow-to guidewill walk you through recommendations to tune up your computer for the next back-to-school season.
How to free up space on Windows 11
As part of the back-to-school process, you want to ensure your laptop has enough space for all your files (documents, pictures, and videos) and allow the system to operate at optimal performance.
On Windows 11, you can use various tools, such as “Cleanup recommendations” and “Storage Sense,” to delete unnecessary files and apps from the system drives as well as external hard drives to free up space.
Free space manually
To free up drive space manually using Cleanup recommendations, use these steps:
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Once you complete the steps, the system will delete the selected contents to free up space on the computer.
Free space automatically
To configure Storage Sense to delete junk files from your computer, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, as you start running out of space or depending on your configuration, Storage Sense will run automatically to optimize the storage space on Windows 11.
If the device is still without enough storage space, you can use this roundup of tips toclean up even more storage.
How to uninstall non-essential apps on Windows 11
One way to free up space and minimize issues, errors, and distractions is by uninstalling unused apps and games. Some apps may even run in the background when not in use, which can slow down device performance. Removing these apps can help keep your computer operating at its best.
To uninstall non-essential apps and games from Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete these steps, you may need to repeat the instructions to uninstall other apps and games as necessary.
How to improve performance on Windows 11
On Windows 11, the system offers various settings and tools to improve the overall performance. For instance, you can manage the apps that load a startup to speed up startup times and prevent apps you don’t need from running unnecessarily, wasting resources and energy.
If your computer has a traditional hard drive with rotating platters, Windows 11 offers a defragmentation tool that can rearrange the bits on the disks to enhance the device’s performance. However, this recommendation isn’t for you if your laptop has a solid-state drive (SSD).
Change startup settings
On Windows 11, apps can automatically launch at startup, which can be convenient, but they can also slow down your computer, drain the battery, and even interfere with other programs. If you have several apps configured to launch automatically, you should review them and deactivate non-essential ones.
To turn off apps to launch at startup, use these steps:
After completing the steps, depending on how apps impact the system, you should notice the laptop significantly faster during startup.
Optimize drives
Windows 11 includes a defragmentation tool that can be used to improve the performance of laptops with hard drives. However, this tool is not necessary for laptops with SSDs.
When using traditional rotating platters hard drives, the data can become fragmented over time. This means that the data is not stored in contiguous blocks, which can slow down the performance of the hard drive. The defragmentation tool reorganizes the data on the hard drive so that it is stored in contiguous blocks, which can improve performance.
Solid-state drives, on the other hand, store data in flash memory. Flash memory does not suffer from fragmentation as hard drives do, so there is no need to defragment an SSD.
To defrag a drive on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the tool will reorganize the drive blocks of data to improve the overall system performance on Windows 11.
How to repair drive errors on Windows 11
On Windows 11, similar to previous versions, performance tends to degrade, and errors and strange behaviors will appear as time goes on due to many factors, including applications and custom customizations. The Check Disk tool is a tool that can scan and repair logical issues to restore the system’s health.
To repair storage problems on Windows 11, use these steps:
After completing the steps, the tool will automatically scan, detect, and repair any logical problems.
If you’re still experiencing issues, you can usemore advanced tools to fix this problem on Windows 11.
How to backup laptop on Windows 11
As you prepare your computer for the new school year, consider creating a full backup to protect the installation and files from hardware failure, software-related problems, viruses like ransomware, and theft.
Microsoft no longer maintains the System Image Backup feature, but you can still use the tool to create backups. (As a deprecated feature, the company can remove it in future releases.)
To create a full backup of a laptop (connect an external drive), and use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the tool will create a backup, and you’ll be prompted to create a system repair disc to restore the backup. However, you can skip this step since you can use abootable USB flash driveto access the same Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
When using this tool, consider you can only recover the system since the last created backup. As such, it’s essential to be proactive and create backups periodically.
How to protect files with OneDrive on Windows 11
Although it’s not required, it’s recommended to use a cloud storage service (such as OneDrive) to back up your school files to the cloud and make them available across your devices. This is also another way to protect your files if your computer is ever lost or damaged.
Configure OneDrive
To set up OneDrive on your computer, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, files in the local folders will sync automatically to the OneDrive account, and they’ll be available anywhere, including from another Windows 11 computer, macOS, iOS, and Android devices connected with the same Microsoft account.
OneDrive backup
In the case that you don’t see the file backup prompt, you can manage the backup settings from the OneDrive application.
To back up your profile folders to OneDrive, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, documents and other files stored in any profile folders will upload to OneDrive automatically.
The free version of OneDrive only gives you 5GB of storage. If you have a lot of files, you should consider getting aMicrosoft 365 subscription, which unlocks 1TB of OneDrive storage and access to the suite of Office apps and many other benefits.
How to protect laptop from malware on Windows 11
Windows 11 has a built-in antivirus solution called Microsoft Defender Antivirus, which is more than enough protection against many malware types and hackers. However, you can also use third-party antivirus solutions if you prefer. The best antivirus solution for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Run full malware scan
Microsoft Defender Antivirus is the default anti-malware solution that protects your laptop and files on Windows 11. Although it’s always running in the background, performing a full malware scan is still recommended, especially if your computer is acting up or performing poorly.
To perform a full malware scan on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the antivirus will perform a scan to detect and remove viruses as necessary.
Configure firewall
Microsoft Defender Firewall is a built-in firewall that helps to protect your computer from unauthorized access. It’s enabled by default on Windows 11, but you can always check to ensure it is running. The firewall works by blocking incoming connections that are not authorized to prevent hackers and other malicious actors from gaining access to your device and files.
To enable the Windows 11 firewall, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the firewall will protect your laptop and data from online threats.
If the default antivirus and firewall aren’t for you, you can check thesebest antivirus software recommendationsto protect your computer.
How to upgrade to latest version of Windows 11
If you have had the same installation for a long time, one of the best ways to prepare your computer for the new school year is to upgrade to the latest version of Windows 11. When you upgrade your device, you can access the latest features and enhancements to improve productivity and efficiency.
Warning:The upgrade process to a newer version of Windows 11 is a non-destructive process, but creating a backup is always recommended before proceeding. You have been warned.
Windows Update process
To upgrade through Windows Update, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Windows Update will install the latest operating system version on your school laptop.
Installation Assistant process
If it’s not possible to upgrade using the Windows Update settings, you can try the Installation Assistant tool. However, this tool will proceed with the upgrade using reinstallation of the operating system, which is not necessary if the device is running Windows 11 version 21H2 or 22H2.
To install the latest version of Windows 11 with the Installation Assistant, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the Installation Assistant will upgrade the laptop to the latest release of Windows 11, preserving your files, apps, and most settings.
How to optimize laptop battery life on Windows 11
Laptop batteries can run out quickly, especially when working on a school project. However, there are several features you can use to make a single charge last longer. These features include choosing the correct power mode, configuring the battery saver feature, adjusting brightness, and more.
Change power modes
To change the power mode on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will enforce the selected power profile to optimize your laptop’s battery life.
ConfigureBattery saver
To configure the Battery saver mode on your school laptop running Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the feature will help expand the battery’s life. If you use “Battery saver,” brightness will be set to a lower setting, and some features will be turned off, throttled, or behave differently.
Change video playback settings
If the device isn’t receiving power and you need to watch a video to complete a school project, you can change the video playback settings to make the laptop play the video entirely on a single charge.
To change the video playback settings of your computer, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the battery should last longer when watching videos on Windows 11.
Change sleep settings
The computer monitor is one of the components that uses the most energy. You can always prolong the battery life of your laptop by adjusting the brightness of the screen, selecting the correct screen and sleep timers, and tweaking other settings.
To change when the screen should turn off and when the device should sleep to conserve battery, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the settings will apply to help extend the battery life of your laptop.
Change brightness
To reduce the brightness on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the brightness on the screen will lower, helping to minimize the energy usage impact.
Enable dark mode
To enable the dark mode on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the desktop components (Start menu, Taskbar, File Explorer, and supported apps) will start using the dark color mode, and the system transparency effects will be turned off to help optimize battery life.
Enable airplane mode
To enable Airplane on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the network adapter and Bluetooth will turn off to conserve battery life.
Disconnect non-essential peripherals
Laptop batteries can drain quickly, especially when you are using external devices. To extend battery life, disconnect non-essential devices you are not using, including external storage devices, cameras, Bluetooth peripherals, and any other devices that are connected to your device.
Enable hibernation
Hibernation is a power-saving mode that saves everything in the current session to the hard drive and then powers down the system. This allows you to conserve battery power when you don’t use your computer. When you power on your laptop again, you can pick up where you left off.
To enable hibernation on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the “Hibernation” option will now appear from the Start power menu. When shutting down your device with this option, you can extend the battery life of the laptop, and it’ll help you save your current session when running out of battery, and you can’t afford to close the apps.
You can trythese instructionsif the feature isn’t available on your device.
How to customize desktop appearance on Windows 11
Windows 11 allows you to customize the appearance of your desktop in many ways.
Change themes
Themes are a great way to keep your computer desktop fresh and interesting. They are small apps that include a collection of wallpapers and specific color settings. You can download tons of themes from the Microsoft Store.
To change the theme on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the theme with its wallpapers and colors will apply to your computer.
Pin apps
If you’re preparing your computer for school, it’s always a good idea to have your frequently used apps at your fingertips for quicker access, and you can do this using pins.
To pin apps to the Start menu or Taskbar on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the apps you pinned will appear on the Start menu and Taskbar, depending on your configuration.
Create folders on Start
Folders in the Start menu are a great way to group and organize similar apps.
To create folders in the Start menu, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, you may need to repeat the instructions to create more folders to organize other applications.
Quick desktop cleanup
To hide the desktop icons and files on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the desktop will appear empty, decluttering the space, but you will still be able to access the files from the “Desktop” location from the left navigation pane on File Explorer.
Install fonts
On Windows 11, you can install fonts that you can use on school projects through the Office apps and other programs, such as Adobe Photoshop.
To install new fonts on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the fonts will be available for all applications that make use of the system fonts on Windows 11.
How to set up printer on Windows 11
Printing content on paper is still a thing and understanding the steps to configure a wireless or USB printer on Windows 11 is still relevant.
Install Wi-Fi printer
To install a wireless printer on Windows 11, and use these steps:
After completing the steps, the system will automatically download and install the required drivers.
Install USB printer
To install a USB printer on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the system will automatically detect and install the local printer.
You can usethese instructionsif you have any problems trying to set up a local printer.
How to install Office apps on Windows 11
Microsoft 365 includes all the Office apps (such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) students need to stay productive in and out of school.
To set up the Office app on Windows 11, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the installer will set up the Office apps, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and others.
How to switch to Microsoft Edge on Windows 11
Although Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome, among others, are great browsers, Microsoft Edge is still arguably the best experience for Windows 11 users. In part, this is because the browser has better power handling to help extend battery life and improve system performance. You even get support for Chrome extensions and pack many useful features.
To switch to Microsoft Edge from the most popular browsers, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you can start taking advantage of the Microsoft Edge features.
How to reset laptop running Windows 11
Windows 11 includes the “Reset This PC” feature that lets you quickly wipe out the drive and reinstall the operating system while preserving your files and settings. This is a great way to start fresh if your laptop is running slow, has battery problems, or is otherwise experiencing issues.
To reinstall Windows 1 while preserving files and most settings, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will reset to the factory settings, fixing existing problems and improving performance to get your laptop ready for the new school year.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
