Manage Background Apps in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide
Background apps in Windows 11 are hidden programs that run even when you close their main windows so they can download updates, sync files, and push notifications. Left unchecked, these background processes drain your laptop battery and waste system memory.
Stopping apps from running in the background helps your PC run faster and keeps your battery charged longer. You can easily control these settings for each installed program through the main Windows 11 settings menu.
- Always. The app is always allowed to run in the background
- Power optimized (recommended). Windows will decide based on battery needs.
- Never. It won’t run in the background when you’re not actively using the app.
Go to Settings Apps Apps & features, click the three dots next to an app, and select Advanced options. Choose “Never” from the “Let this app run in the background” dropdown to disable it.
How to stop or allow apps to run in the background in 🪟 Windows 11
Windows lets users manage background activity for installed applications. Specific permissions control what software does when it runs out of sight.
Here’s how to change that behavior in Windows 11:
Settings handles almost every configuration task on the operating system.
To access System Settings, press the Windows key + I shortcut or click Start then Settings, as shown below:
Alternatively, use the taskbar's search box to find and open Settings.
The Windows Settings window should appear similar to this image. Within the Settings app, click Apps on the left-hand menu.
On the right side, select the tile for the Installed app you wish to modify to expand its options.
Within the System -> Apps -> Installed apps settings pane, click the menu (three-dotted) button for the specific Windows app you want to adjust.
From the menu that appears, select Advanced options, as highlighted here.
On the System - Apps - Installed apps - App name screen, locate the Background apps permissions section. Here, you can choose the desired background activity level for that app.
Background options include Always to keep apps running constantly, Power optimized (recommended) to let Windows manage power automatically, and Never to block background activity entirely.
The choice you make will apply to the selected app.
These adjustments take effect immediately.
Reference:
Conclusion:
- In conclusion, managing background apps in Windows 11 gives you control over app behavior when not in use.
- Following the steps outlined in this article, you can choose whether an app runs in the background based on your preferences and device needs.
- It's important to note that setting at least one app to "Always" background activity may be necessary for certain essential device functions, such as staying connected and receiving app updates.
Adjusting these background permissions gives precise control over system resources and battery life.
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Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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