1. Enable Game Mode

Windows 11 comes with a built-in feature called Game Mode, designed to prioritize your game’s performance over background tasks. To activate it:

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Gaming > Game Mode.
3. Toggle the Game Mode switch to On.

This setting ensures your game gets the system resources it needs for optimal performance.

2. Adjust Power Settings for Maximum Performance

By default, Windows 11 may be set to a balanced power plan, which can limit your PC’s performance. To ensure your system runs at its best:

1. Go to Control Panel > Power Options.
2. Select High Performance.

This change allows your CPU to run at higher speeds, reducing lag and improving game responsiveness.

3. Disable Background Apps

Background applications consume valuable system resources. To close unnecessary apps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Review the Processes tab and end tasks for programs you don’t need running.

This frees up CPU and memory for your game, leading to smoother gameplay.

4. Turn Off Memory Integrity and Virtual Machine Platform

While these security features are important, they can impact gaming performance. To disable them temporarily:

1. Search for Core Isolation in the Start menu and open it.
2. Toggle off Memory Integrity.
3. For Virtual Machine Platform, search for Windows Features, uncheck the box, and restart your PC.

Remember to re-enable these features after gaming sessions to maintain system security. Learn more.

5. Keep Your Graphics Drivers Updated

Outdated graphics drivers can cause performance issues. To update them:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Expand Display adapters, right-click your graphics card, and select Update driver.
3. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest games and can enhance performance.

6. Use DirectStorage for Faster Game Load Times

If your PC has an NVMe SSD and a DirectX 12 Ultimate-compatible GPU, Windows 11 supports DirectStorage. This feature reduces game load times by allowing the GPU to load game assets directly from storage. To check if your system supports it, press Win + G to open the Xbox Game Bar and look for DirectStorage under Gaming features. More details.

7. Disable Mouse Acceleration for Better Precision

1. Go to Settings > Devices > Mouse.
2. Click on Additional mouse options.
3. In the Pointer Options tab, uncheck Enhance pointer precision.

This change provides more consistent mouse movements, which is crucial for precision in many games. Learn more.

8. Regularly Check for Windows Updates

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.

Install any available updates and restart your PC if prompted. More tips.