Windows 11 Settings Most People Never Change (But Should)
People open the Windows Settings app mainly to adjust Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and wallpaper. Many other Windows 11 settings go overlooked because they are buried beneath multiple levels of menus.
Windows 11 ships pre-configured for general compatibility across a wide range of systems, not specifically for you. It works fine for most people, but "fine enough" is not the same as optimized.
A few targeted changes can make your computer faster, safer, and more functional. This is especially worthwhile if you have recently upgraded to Windows 11, purchased a new computer, or simply want to get more out of your hardware.
This guide covers the most impactful Windows 11 settings, what they do, and how to change them — no registry edits required.
Quick Answer
The first Windows 11 settings worth changing are Storage Sense for automatic cleanup, Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling for smoother graphics, Diagnostics and Feedback to reduce telemetry, Power Mode set to Best Performance for improved responsiveness, and Startup Apps to speed up boot times.
Performance Settings You’re Probably Missing
Turn on Storage Sense
What it does
Storage Sense automatically deletes temporary files, clears unnecessary system data, empties the Recycle Bin on a schedule, and removes items from the Downloads folder after a set period.
Why it matters
Junk data accumulates inside Windows over time, taking up space and slowing down your computer. Storage Sense handles this automatically in the background, making it one of the easiest proactive PC optimization settings available — it prevents clutter before it starts affecting performance.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > System > Storage > Storage Sense
Turn it on and configure:
- Cleanup frequency
- Recycle Bin timing
- Downloads folder cleanup rules
Enable Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling
What it does
This feature allows your graphics card to manage its own memory scheduling directly, rather than routing that work through the CPU.
Why it matters
On supported NVIDIA® and AMD® GPUs, Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling can reduce latency, stuttering, and frame overloading during gameplay, streaming, multitasking, and video playback.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Change Default Graphics Settings
Enable: Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling
Set Power Mode to Best Performance
What it does
Windows 11 defaults to Balanced power mode, which favors energy conservation over maximum performance.
Why it matters
Balanced mode intentionally reduces CPU and GPU output during lower-demand workloads to conserve power. This is most noticeable during:
- Browser-heavy workloads
- Multitasking
- Creative applications
- App launches
- Large file transfers
How to change it
Go to: Settings > System > Power & Battery > Power Mode
Select: Best Performance
Disable unnecessary startup apps
What it does
Multiple applications launch automatically when Windows starts.
Why it matters
Every startup app consumes RAM, CPU, and storage bandwidth before you have even opened it. Common examples include Spotify, Adobe Updater, Teams, Skype, Discord, and cloud storage sync clients. Startup bloat is one of the most common reasons a PC feels slower after a few months of use.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Apps > Startup
Disable all items you do not need at boot.
For more advanced startup management, see our guide on how to use Task Manager like a pro.
Turn off visual effects you do not need
What it does
Windows 11 uses transparency effects, fade animations, motion transitions, and other visual enhancements throughout the interface.
Why it matters
These effects consume system resources. On machines with integrated graphics, reducing animations can noticeably improve menu and desktop responsiveness.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Accessibility > Visual Effects
Disable:
- Transparency Effects
- Animation Effects
For deeper optimization: System > About > Advanced System Settings > Performance Settings > Adjust for Best Performance
Privacy Settings Worth Changing Today
Limit diagnostic data
What it does
Windows 11 collects diagnostic data to support compatibility, updates, personalization, and security.
Why it matters
Beyond the essential data required for normal operation, Windows can also collect optional diagnostic data. Limiting this is one of the most straightforward privacy adjustments available.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & Feedback
Select: Required Diagnostic Data
Also disable:
- Tailored Experiences
- Improve Inking & Typing
Turn off Advertising ID
What it does
Windows assigns a unique advertising ID that app developers can use to serve personalized ads and recommendations.
Why it matters
Disabling this setting stops cross-app ad tracking without affecting normal app functionality. Most users are unaware it exists because it sits several menus deep.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Privacy & Security > General
Disable: Allow apps to show me personalized ads by using my advertising ID
Review app permissions
What it does
Apps can request access to your camera, microphone, contacts, location, and background activity.
Why it matters
Many permissions remain enabled long after apps are no longer regularly used.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Privacy & Security
Review and remove unnecessary permissions under:
- Camera
- Microphone
- Location
- Background Apps
Security Settings Hiding in Plain Sight
Enable DNS-over-HTTPS
What it does
DNS-over-HTTPS (DoH) encrypts your DNS requests, preventing internet providers and network operators from easily tracking which websites you visit.
Why it matters
Standard DNS traffic is unencrypted. Encrypted DNS improves both security and privacy, particularly on public Wi-Fi networks.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi > Hardware Properties > DNS Server Assignment > Edit
Recommended providers:
- 1.1.1.1
- 8.8.8.8
Select: Encrypted Preferred
Turn on Find My Device
What it does
Find My Device lets you locate a lost or stolen PC.
Why it matters
Most users enable location tracking on their phones but overlook the equivalent feature on their Windows laptops.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Privacy & Security > Find My Device
Enable: Find My Device
Requirements:
- Microsoft account
- Location services enabled
Check Windows Security's full dashboard
What it does
Windows Security covers antivirus protection, firewall controls, device security, browser protection, and account security.
Why it matters
Most users run occasional virus scans without reviewing the full dashboard. Features like Reputation-Based Protection and Smart App Control may be disabled without the user realizing it.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security
Quality-of-Life Settings You Didn't Know About
Clipboard history
What it does
Clipboard History saves multiple copied items rather than just the most recent one.
Why it matters
This is particularly useful when writing, working in spreadsheets, coding, or doing research that involves copying and pasting across multiple sources.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > System > Clipboard
Enable: Clipboard History
Press Windows Key + V to view saved clipboard items.
Focus Assist / Do Not Disturb
What it does
Focus Assist silences notifications during work, meetings, gaming, or scheduled quiet periods.
Why it matters
Constant notification interruptions break concentration. Windows 11 has solid focus tools built in, but most users never configure them.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > System > Focus
Customize:
- Focus sessions
- Automatic rules
- Notification schedules
Night Light
What it does
Night Light reduces blue light emissions during evening hours.
Why it matters
Extended screen use in the evening strains your eyes and can disrupt sleep. Night Light shifts the display to warmer tones after dark.
How to change it
Go to: Settings > System > Display > Night Light
Adjust:
- Strength
- Schedule
- Sunset timing
Frequently Asked Questions
What Windows 11 settings should I change for better performance?
Enable Storage Sense, disable unnecessary startup apps, set Power Mode to Best Performance, and reduce Windows 11 visual effects. These changes improve processing speed and responsiveness without requiring any hardware upgrades.
How do I make Windows 11 faster without upgrading hardware?
Storage Sense, Startup Apps, Power Mode, and disabling animations are all software-level optimizations that improve responsiveness and reduce resource consumption. Many users notice the difference within minutes of making these changes.
What privacy settings should I change in Windows 11?
The most impactful privacy settings in Windows 11 involve diagnostic data, the advertising ID, and permissions for the camera, microphone, and location. Adjusting these limits data collection without affecting core Windows functionality.
Is it safe to change Windows 11 advanced settings?
Yes. Every setting covered in this guide is accessible through the standard Windows Settings app and is designed for everyday users. No registry modifications, command-line tools, or system-level changes are required.
Does Windows 11 collect my data by default?
Yes. Windows 11 collects some diagnostic data, requests app permissions, and enables personalized ads by default. These can all be adjusted through the Privacy & Security menu without affecting core functionality.
What is Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling in Windows 11?
Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling is a performance feature in Windows 11 that allows compatible NVIDIA® and AMD® graphics cards to manage their own memory scheduling, reducing CPU overhead and improving smoothness during demanding tasks.
How often should I review my Windows 11 settings?
Review your settings every 3 to 6 months, after a major Windows update, or when installing new applications. Updates can reset some preferences, and apps may add new startup entries or request additional permissions over time.
Conclusion
Windows 11 contains far more optimization functionality than most users ever explore. While it ships configured for broad compatibility across millions of devices, it is not necessarily set up for your specific needs. A few targeted changes deliver meaningful improvements to performance, privacy, security, and day-to-day usability.
These settings apply to all Windows 11 PCs. Our HP OmniBook® and HP OMEN® laptops ship with Windows 11 pre-installed and are well suited to take advantage of all of these optimizations.
For more in-depth optimization, see our guides on 12 ways to make your computer run faster and how to use Task Manager like a pro.
