 |
| How to Stop Apps from Running in the Background on Windows |
Introduction
Is your Windows PC running slow? Do apps keep running in the background, consuming RAM, CPU, and battery life? Background apps can drain system resources, causing slow performance, overheating, and reduced battery life.
The good news? You can stop unnecessary apps from running in the background and boost your computer’s speed.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to stop apps from running in the background on Windows 11 & 10 using built-in settings, Task Manager, Group Policy, and third-party tools.
Why Should You Stop Background Apps?
Before disabling background apps, let’s see why it’s important:
1. Improves System Performance
Background apps consume RAM and CPU, slowing down your computer. Disabling them frees up resources for faster performance.
2. Extends Battery Life (For Laptops)
Apps running in the background drain battery power. Stopping them extends battery life on laptops.
3. Reduces Internet Data Usage
Some background apps use the internet for updates and sync, consuming bandwidth.
4. Enhances Privacy & Security
Certain apps run in the background and track user activity. Disabling them enhances privacy and security.
How to Stop Apps from Running in the Background on Windows
Let’s go through step-by-step methods to disable unwanted background apps and optimize your PC.
1. Disable Background Apps Using Windows Settings (Best for Beginners)
Windows allows you to turn off background apps through Settings.
✅ Steps to Disable Background Apps (Windows 11 & 10):
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Click Apps > Installed Apps (or Apps & Features on Windows 10).
- Select the app you want to disable and click Advanced Options.
- Under Background App Permissions, select Never.
🔴 This stops the app from running in the background but does not uninstall it.
2. Stop Background Apps Using Task Manager (For Instant Effect)
Task Manager lets you force stop running background apps immediately.
✅ Steps to Stop Background Apps Using Task Manager:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Click the Processes tab.
- Find the app consuming high CPU/RAM, right-click it, and select End Task.
🔴 This method stops apps temporarily but does not prevent them from restarting.
3. Disable Startup Apps to Prevent Auto-Launching
Some apps start automatically when Windows boots, slowing down startup speed.
✅ Steps to Disable Startup Apps (Windows 11 & 10):
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup tab.
- Right-click unwanted apps and select Disable.
🔴 Disabling startup apps speeds up boot time and prevents unnecessary background apps from launching.
4. Turn Off Background Apps Using Group Policy Editor (Windows Pro Users)
If you’re using Windows 11/10 Pro, you can use Group Policy Editor to disable all background apps at once.
✅ Steps to Disable Background Apps Using Group Policy:
- Press Win + R, type
gpedit.msc, and hit Enter. - Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Privacy.
- Double-click Let Windows Apps Run in the Background.
- Select Disabled, then click Apply > OK.
🔴 This method disables background apps system-wide.
5. Stop Background Apps Using Registry Editor (Advanced Users Only)
If Group Policy Editor is unavailable, use Registry Editor to disable background apps.
✅ Steps to Disable Background Apps Using Registry Editor:
- Press Win + R, type
regedit, and hit Enter. - Navigate to:
- If the AppPrivacy key doesn’t exist, right-click Windows, select New > Key, and name it AppPrivacy.
- Right-click inside the right panel, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it LetAppsRunInBackground.
- Double-click it and set the Value Data to 2.
- Click OK, close Registry Editor, and restart your PC.
🔴 Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system errors—proceed with caution!
6. Use Windows Defender to Block Unwanted Background Apps
Some apps restart automatically even after being disabled. You can block them using Windows Defender Firewall.
✅ Steps to Block Apps in Windows Firewall:
- Press Win + R, type
wf.msc, and press Enter. - Click Outbound Rules > New Rule.
- Select Program and click Next.
- Click Browse, locate the app’s .exe file, and click Next.
- Select Block the connection, then click Next > Finish.
🔴 This prevents the app from accessing the internet and running in the background.
7. Use Third-Party Tools to Stop Background Apps Automatically
If manual methods seem complicated, third-party tools can help.
✅ Best Free Tools to Stop Background Apps:
| Tool | Features | Download Link |
|---|---|---|
| CCleaner | Stops background apps & boosts performance | Download |
| Razer Cortex | Optimizes PC for gaming & stops unnecessary apps | Download |
| Advanced SystemCare | Cleans junk & disables background apps | Download |
🔴 These tools automate app disabling and optimize Windows performance.
How to Prevent Apps from Restarting in the Background
To stop apps from running again, follow these tips:
1. Keep Windows Updated
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for Updates.
2. Avoid Installing Unnecessary Apps
- Download only trusted software to reduce background processes.
3. Regularly Monitor Task Manager
- Check CPU & RAM usage for suspicious background apps.
4. Enable Battery Saver (Laptops Only)
- Press Win + I > System > Battery > Enable Battery Saver.
FAQs
Will stopping background apps affect performance?
No! It improves performance by freeing up system resources.
Can I stop Windows system apps from running in the background?
It’s not recommended, as it may cause stability issues.
Does disabling background apps free up RAM?
Yes! It reduces RAM usage, speeding up your PC.
Should I disable Microsoft Store background apps?
Yes, unless you regularly use Store apps like Xbox, Mail, or Weather.
Conclusion
Disabling background apps on Windows is one of the best ways to boost performance, reduce CPU/RAM usage, and speed up your PC. Whether you use Windows Settings, Task Manager, Group Policy, or third-party tools, following this guide will help you maximize your computer’s efficiency.
🚀 Try these methods today and enjoy a faster Windows experience!
No comments:
Post a Comment