Windows performance

A recently installed program is slowing down the PC

If a slowdown started right after installing new software, that program (or something bundled with it) is the most likely and easiest cause to confirm and fix.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
15–30 minutes
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$0

Symptoms

  • Slowdown began right after installing a specific program
  • The new program runs constantly in the background, not just when opened
  • Task Manager shows the new program or a related process using high resources
  • Uninstalling the program (as a test) resolves the slowdown

Likely causes

  • CommonThe new program set itself to run at every startupMany installers add this by default without clearly asking.
  • CommonBundled extra software (toolbars, 'helper' apps) installed alongside the intended programFree software installers frequently bundle additional unwanted programs.
  • PossibleThe program itself being genuinely resource-intensive by designSome legitimate software (antivirus suites, creative tools) is simply heavier than average.
  • PossibleA buggy or poorly optimized version of the new softwareNewly released or updated software sometimes has performance issues that get fixed later.
  • PossibleThe program running a large first-time setup task (indexing, scanning, syncing)This is often temporary and settles after initial setup completes.

What to do

  1. Open Task Manager and check whether the new program (or a related background process) is using high CPU, memory, or disk.
  2. Check Settings > Apps > Startup to see if it added itself to launch automatically, and disable that if you don't need it.
  3. Review the program's own settings for background activity options (like auto-sync or auto-scan) you can adjust.
  4. Check if the slowdown is from a one-time setup task (like an initial scan) that should finish and settle down.
  5. Update the program to its latest version in case a bug fix addresses the performance issue.
  6. As a test, uninstall the program temporarily to confirm it's the actual cause before deciding how to proceed.
  7. If you want to keep the software, check its support site or forums for known performance issues and workarounds.
  8. Reinstall using a custom/advanced install option in the future to opt out of any bundled extras.

Tools and parts

  • None required

When to call a pro

This is generally a software issue you can resolve yourself by adjusting settings or uninstalling; professional help isn't typically needed.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.