How to Check Device Performance in Windows 11
You check your Windows 11 device performance using built-in tools like Task Manager and Performance Monitor.
These tools offer a real-time look at your PC’s resource usage, helping you pinpoint slowdowns and optimize your system.
Task Manager’s ‘Performance’ tab displays your CPU, memory, disk, and network usage, often highlighting resource-hungry applications. This insight is crucial when troubleshooting a slow computer.
For more in-depth analysis, Performance Monitor tracks specific metrics over time, allowing you to diagnose complex issues effectively.
Open Windows Security, click Device performance & health, and review Storage capacity, Apps and software, Battery life, and Windows Time service. You can also use Task Manager’s Performance tab for real-time CPU, memory, disk, and network usage.
Why check your device health?
Checking your Windows 11 device health regularly helps you catch problems early, like low storage or outdated software, before they cause your PC to crash or lose data.
What happens when done?
After running a Windows 11 performance check, you’ll see a health report with green checkmarks for good status and yellow marks for issues needing attention, like pending updates.
Using the Windows Security App
You can start a Windows 11 performance check using the Windows Security app, which keeps an eye on your device for security problems and general health.
- In the search box on your taskbar, type Windows Security.
- Select Windows Security from the search results.
Note: You don’t need administrator rights for this, though you might for some of the fixes the report suggests.
- Inside the Windows Security app, click on Device performance & health.
The report covers these main areas:
- Storage capacity: Checks if you are running out of disk space.
- Apps and software: Alerts you if programs are failing or need updates.
- Battery life: Shows if apps are draining your battery too quickly.
- Windows Time service: Ensures your clock is set correctly for system processes.
Using the PC Health Check App
The PC Health Check app from Microsoft gives you a clear picture of your Windows 11 device’s specs and readiness, showing you what it can do and what it needs.
You can download the app from Microsoft’s official website. Once it’s installed, it gives you a rundown of your device’s specs, like your processor, RAM, and how much storage you have. It also checks if your PC meets the requirements for the newest Windows updates.
Troubleshooting Performance Issues
If your Windows 11 performance check reveals issues, you can troubleshoot by clearing temporary files using Disk Cleanup or by disabling unneeded startup programs in Task Manager.
Hardware Diagnostics
For laptops, running a hardware diagnostic like the battery capacity report in Windows 11 can show your battery’s health and usage history.
Summary
Regularly checking your Windows 11 device performance and health is key to keeping your PC fast and secure, so make it a habit to review updates and storage.
Is the PC Health Check app free?
Yes, the PC Health Check app is completely free to download and use from Microsoft’s official website. It is designed to help users verify if their hardware meets Windows 11 system requirements and to provide basic diagnostics for device health and performance status.
How do I fix performance issues found by Windows Security?
When Windows Security identifies an issue, it will provide a recommended action button. Click the button to let Windows fix the problem automatically. For storage issues, you may need to manually delete large files or move data to an external drive to free up space.
Was this guide helpful?
About the Author
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.
No comments yet — be the first to share your thoughts!