Common Windows 11 Issues and Solutions

1. Windows 11 is Running Slow

Users may experience sluggish performance, especially after upgrading from Windows 10.

Root Causes:

  • Excessive background processes consuming system resources.
  • Outdated or incompatible drivers affecting performance.
  • Unoptimized system settings causing high CPU and RAM usage.

Solution:

Disable unnecessary startup programs:

Task Manager > Startup > Disable Unneeded Programs

Update drivers using Device Manager:

Device Manager > Right-click Device > Update Driver

Optimize system performance:

Settings > System > About > Advanced System Settings > Adjust for Best Performance

2. Windows 11 Installation Fails

The installation process may fail with errors or become stuck during setup.

Root Causes:

  • Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 not enabled.
  • Insufficient disk space or corrupted installation media.
  • Hardware compatibility issues.

Solution:

Ensure Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 are enabled:

BIOS > Security > Enable TPM and Secure Boot

Free up disk space before installation:

Settings > Storage > Cleanup Recommendations

Use the Windows 11 Installation Media Tool to create a fresh bootable USB.

3. Internet Connection Issues

Wi-Fi or Ethernet may fail to connect, or speeds may be significantly slower than expected.

Root Causes:

  • Incorrect network settings or driver issues.
  • Interference from third-party security software.
  • Faulty or outdated network adapter drivers.

Solution:

Reset network settings:

Settings > Network & Internet > Advanced Network Settings > Network Reset

Disable and re-enable the network adapter:

Device Manager > Network Adapters > Disable > Enable

Update network drivers:

Device Manager > Network Adapters > Update Driver

4. Windows 11 Crashes or Freezes

Unexpected system crashes, blue screen errors (BSOD), or unresponsive applications.

Root Causes:

  • Corrupt system files or software conflicts.
  • Overheating due to high CPU or GPU usage.
  • Faulty hardware such as RAM or SSD issues.

Solution:

Run the System File Checker (SFC) tool:

sfc /scannow

Monitor temperatures and performance:

Task Manager > Performance > CPU/GPU Usage

Check hardware health using Windows Memory Diagnostic:

mdsched.exe

5. Windows 11 Compatibility and Driver Issues

Some applications or hardware devices may not work correctly after upgrading to Windows 11.

Root Causes:

  • Incompatible or outdated drivers.
  • Old software not optimized for Windows 11.
  • BIOS firmware incompatibility.

Solution:

Check Windows 11 compatibility using PC Health Check:

https://aka.ms/GetPCHealthCheckApp

Manually update drivers from the manufacturer’s website.

Update BIOS firmware via the motherboard manufacturer’s website.

Best Practices for Windows 11

  • Keep Windows 11 updated with the latest patches.
  • Regularly update drivers to prevent compatibility issues.
  • Use built-in troubleshooting tools to diagnose issues.
  • Optimize startup apps to improve performance.
  • Perform periodic system maintenance and clean up unused files.

Conclusion

By troubleshooting performance slowdowns, installation errors, connectivity issues, system crashes, and driver incompatibilities, users can maintain a stable and efficient Windows 11 experience. Implementing best practices ensures smooth operation and long-term system health.

FAQs

1. Why is Windows 11 running slow on my PC?

Disable unnecessary startup apps, update drivers, and optimize performance settings.

2. How do I fix Windows 11 installation failures?

Ensure TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled, free up disk space, and use the Installation Media Tool.

3. Why is my Wi-Fi slow or disconnecting on Windows 11?

Reset network settings, update drivers, and check for interference from security software.

4. What should I do if Windows 11 keeps crashing?

Run the SFC tool, check CPU/GPU temperatures, and test hardware components.

5. How do I resolve driver compatibility issues on Windows 11?

Update drivers manually, check Windows 11 compatibility, and update BIOS firmware.