Symptoms
- Noticeably slower performance right after an update
- Fans running more than usual for a day or two
- Apps take longer to open than before
- High disk usage that wasn't there previously
Likely causes
- CommonBackground system indexing or optimizationAfter a major update, the system often reindexes files and installs remaining components in the background.
- PossibleDriver incompatibility with the new updateGraphics or storage drivers occasionally lag behind an operating system update, causing slowdowns.
- PossibleBloated startup programs added by the updateUpdates sometimes reset settings, re-enabling startup programs you had previously disabled.
What to do
- Let the computer sit idle and connected to power for an hour or two after a major update, since background processes often finish on their own.
- Check Task Manager or Activity Monitor for a process using high disk or CPU that wasn't there before.
- Check for additional driver updates, especially graphics and storage drivers, through the manufacturer's site.
- Review startup programs and disable anything unnecessary that got re-enabled.
- Restart the computer once fully, since a single reboot after an update often clears lingering slowdowns.
- Free up disk space if the update filled up available storage.
- If slowness continues after a few days, consider rolling back the update if the option is still available.
When to call a pro
If performance never recovers and rolling back isn't possible, a technician can check for driver conflicts or perform a clean reinstall.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.