Boost Microsoft Photos Performance on Startup

This guide explains how to control the background startup feature in the Microsoft Photos app on Windows 11.

The Microsoft Photos app is the default tool for viewing and editing images on your computer. You can use it to replace an image background, remove an image background, import photos and videos, show iCloud in the app, change mouse wheel behavior, and use filmstrip.

Why change this setting?

Modern versions of the Microsoft Photos app include a performance feature. It allows the app to start in the background when you turn on your computer. This makes the app open faster when you need it.

What happens when you are done?

If you turn this feature on, the app will be ready to open instantly. If you turn it off, your computer will use fewer resources at startup, which might help keep your system running smoothly.

Steps to adjust performance settings

You do not need admin privileges for these steps.

1. Open the Photos app on your Windows computer.
2. Click the Settings (gear) icon at the top of the window. If you do not see it, click the See more button (three dots) and choose Settings.

3. Look for the Personalization section.
4. Toggle the Performance switch to On or Off based on your preference.

Summary

You can now control whether the Microsoft Photos app runs in the background. Enabling this feature makes the app faster to launch, while disabling it saves computer memory and processing power. Choose the setting that best fits how often you use your photo library.