1.
Enable System Restore (Recover from Problems)
Why it
matters: System Restore is a lifesaver
when Windows crashes or runs into issues during boot up. However, for some
reason, Windows disables this by default! Enabling System Restore
ensures that you can roll back your system to a working state instead of
reinstalling everything from scratch.
How
to Enable System Restore:
- Search for “Create a Restore Point”
in the Windows search bar and open it.
- Select your C: Drive and
click Configure.
- Click Turn on System
Protection and set the space allocation (4-7% is ideal).
- Click Create to generate
a restore point.
Now, if
something goes wrong, you can restore your system without losing your data!
2.
Show Hidden File Extensions (Avoid Fake Files)
Why it
matters: Windows hides file extensions by
default, which can be a major security risk. A virus disguised as image.jpg.exe
will appear as image.jpg, tricking you into clicking on it.
How
to Show File Extensions:
- Open File Explorer.
- Click on the View tab.
- Check the box for File name
extensions.
- (Optional) Enable Hidden
Items for better visibility.
With this
enabled, it’ll be easier to spot malicious files!
3.
Disable Unnecessary Startup Apps (Boost Performance)
Why it
matters: Too many startup programs
can drastically slow down your PC’s boot time. Simply because they run
automatically in the background every time the system boots up. Disabling unnecessary apps helps your
computer start up faster and run smoother.
How
to Disable Startup Apps:
- Right-click on the Taskbar and select Task
Manager.
- Click on the Startup
tab.
- Right-click on any unnecessary
apps and select Disable.
Try that out
and notice how your computer boots up faster each time!
4.
Improve Privacy & Stop Data Collection
Why it matters: Windows collects tons of
personal data by default. If you value your privacy, it’s time to turn
off tracking features.
How
to Stop Windows from Collecting Your Data:
- Open Settings and go to Privacy.
- Under General, disable
all tracking options you don’t need.
- Go to Diagnostics &
Feedback and adjust data-sharing preferences.
- Check Location settings
and disable unnecessary tracking.
Windows
won’t send any more of the personal information you don’t let it to!
5.
Adjust User Account Control (Prevent Unauthorized Changes)
Why it
matters: User Account Control (UAC) helps
prevent unauthorized changes to your system. Adjusting it ensures better
security. It simply let’s your system how much control you have over the
changes that happen.
How
to Change UAC Settings:
- Search for User Account
Control in the Start menu.
- Adjust the slider:
- Highest: Maximum security
(recommended for beginners).
- Medium: Fewer prompts but still
safe.
- Lowest: Minimal interference (not
recommended for novice users!).
✅ Get the right balance between
security and usability!
6.
Disable Fast Boot (Prevent Startup Issues)
Why it
matters: Fast Boot speeds up startup
by hibernating some system files at shut down. As good as that sounds, it can cause
issues like failed Windows updates and driver malfunctions.
How
to Disable Fast Boot:
- Open Control Panel ➝ Power Options.
- Click Choose what the power
buttons do.
- Scroll down and uncheck
‘Turn on fast startup’.
Now, Windows
will perform a full shutdown because I mean, isn’t that the goal when you
instruct it to?
7.
Sync Your Browser for Better Productivity
Why it
matters: If you use multiple devices,
enabling browser sync ensures seamless access to your bookmarks,
passwords, and history across all device browsers that you are logged into.
How
to Enable Browser Sync:
For Edge:
- Open Edge and click on
your Profile Icon.
- Click Sync and enable
all necessary options.
For Chrome:
- Open Chrome and click Profile
Icon.
- Click Turn on Sync.
You can now
enjoy the seamless browsing experience anywhere, any time!
8.
Stop Automatic Restarts After Updates
Why it
matters: Windows sometimes restarts
automatically immediately
after an update—often at the worst time! Take control and stop forced
restarts.
How
to Prevent Automatic Restarts:
- Open Settings ➝ Windows Update.
- Click Advanced Options.
- Turn OFF ‘Restart the
device as soon as possible after an update’.
Windows will
always wait for your approval before restarting!
Final
Thoughts
These **8 simple Windows settings tweaks** will make your PC faster, safer, and more private. Which tweak helped you the most? Drop a comment below!