How to Enable or Disable Game Mode in Windows 11

What is Game Mode?

Windows 11 Game Mode is a setting designed to boost your game’s performance. When activated, your computer dedicates more power to your game. This action reduces interruptions and makes your experience smoother. It also prevents Windows from updating or restarting while you play.

Here’s what happens when Game Mode is on:

• Windows won’t 🔃 install updates or restart while you’re playing.
• Your game may run smoother with fewer slowdowns.

How to Turn Game Mode On or Off in Settings

Turning Windows 11 Game Mode on or off can be done through the Settings app. Press the Windows key and ‘I’ simultaneously to open Settings, then select ‘Gaming’ from the left-hand menu. A switch for Game Mode will be visible, allowing you to toggle it on or off.

1. Press the ⊞ Win+I keys on your keyboard to ⚙️ open Settings.
2. Click on Gaming from the menu on the left side.
3. Click on Game Mode on the right side.
4. Use the switch to turn Game Mode On or Off.
5. Close Settings when you’re done.

You can jump directly to Game Mode settings by clicking here: Open Game Mode Settings

How to Turn Game Mode On or Off Using the Registry (Advanced)

If you’re comfortable with advanced Windows settings and wish to edit the Registry (Windows’ central database for low-level settings), you can use this method. Proceed with caution — consider backing up your registry before making any modifications.

Turn On Game Mode

Administrator privileges are required to make changes here.

reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\GameBar" /v AutoGameModeEnabled /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f

Turn Off Game Mode

Administrator privileges are required to make changes here.

reg add "HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\GameBar" /v AutoGameModeEnabled /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

Need More Help?

For additional information about Game Mode, explore the Xbox Support website

Summary

Windows 11 Game Mode enhances game performance by prioritizing active games for computer resources. This feature prevents background processes, such as Windows updates and restarts, from interrupting gameplay, ensuring a smoother experience.