How to Debloat and Optimize Windows
Introduction#
Here’s what we’ll cover:
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Why debloating matters
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The essential all-in-one utility
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Deep uninstall and cleanup tools
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Privacy and telemetry reduction
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Performance tweaks and final notes
1. Why Debloating Matters#
Modern Windows installations — especially Windows 11 — come with preinstalled software (often called bloatware) ranging from Xbox services to Microsoft Edge background syncs, widgets, and unnecessary telemetry (spyware).
This stuff:
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Consumes RAM and CPU cycles
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Spams background processes
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Sends usage and telemetry data
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Slows down boot times
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Eats SSD space unnecessarily
And worst of all: IT RUNS ON MY FUCKING HARDWARE WITHOUT MY PERMISSION!!!
Even though I already moved away from Windows ever since they outsourced development to AI and DARED putting ads in the OS itself.
2. The Essential All-in-One Utility#
The first and most important step is to use the Chris Titus Tech Windows Utility, a script-based tool that lets you safely customize, debloat, and optimize Windows in one interface.
You can launch it directly via PowerShell (run as Administrator):
irm "https://christitus.com/win" | iex
Once open, you’ll find a simple GUI with tabs for:
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Tweaks: Disable telemetry, ads, and unnecessary background apps
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Apps: Easily remove built-in Microsoft Store apps you’ll never use
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Updates: Control Windows Updates and driver behavior
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Installs: Quickly add useful tools like 7-Zip, Notepad++, VLC, etc.
Use the “Minimal” preset as a starting point - it keeps what’s necessary and removes most of the fluff. You can always tweak further after a reboot. Always check whether a system restore point will be created.
This tool is open-source and can be reviewed on GitHub, so it’s safer than random “optimizer” programs floating around online but keep in mind that you’re still downloading things from the internet and any code you run on your machine is under your sole responsibility. Here is a link to an archival of the script on Nov 10 2025.
3. Deep Uninstall and Cleanup Tools#
Even after running the utility, some junk remains — registry entries, hidden services, or OEM preinstalled crap.
That’s where Revo Uninstaller comes in.
Unlike Windows’ built-in “Uninstall” option, Revo actually scans for leftover files and registry traces after uninstalling an app.
Steps:
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Install Revo Uninstaller Free.
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Uninstall apps normally through Revo.
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When prompted, you can choose Advanced Scan to remove all leftovers.
Optional but recommended: use Revo to remove bundled manufacturer utilities on laptops (HP, Lenovo, Dell, etc.) that run auto-updaters and tracking services.
⚠️ Be careful not to remove core drivers or OEM tools that handle fan curves, display color calibration, or power management unless you know what they do.
Always be careful on what you remove.
4. Privacy and Telemetry Reduction#
Once the system is clean, it’s time to address the invisible stuff — Windows telemetry, tracking, and background syncs.
Some best practices:
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Disable advertising ID and activity history under Settings → Privacy → General. (Unless you want personalized ads)
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In Task Scheduler, disable telemetry-related tasks under
Microsoft → Windows → Customer Experience Improvement Program. -
Use the Chris Titus Tech Utility’s “Privacy” tab to toggle off dozens of telemetry endpoints at once.
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Optionally, use O&O ShutUp10++ for a deeper graphical overview of privacy controls.
After this, Windows stops sending most unnecessary data to Microsoft’s servers and runs noticeably leaner.
5. Performance Tweaks and Final Notes#
With bloat removed and privacy restored, it’s time for performance polish:
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Disable startup apps: via Task Manager → Startup Apps tab.
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Switch power plan: use Ultimate Performance (for desktops) or Balanced (for laptops).
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Trim background services: disable services like Xbox Game Bar, Connected Devices Platform, or Print Spooler (if unused).
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Defrag or trim SSDs: run
defrag C: /Oor use the built-in Optimize Drives tool. -
Keep drivers updated: via Windows Update or direct manufacturer downloads, not third-party driver apps.
Finally, reboot and note the difference — faster startup, cleaner desktop, quieter fans, and fewer “Your PC is running low on memory” popups.
Conclusion#
Even though Windows is becoming absolute garbage these utilities will keep you afloat until a valid alternative comes up eventually (or you finally learn Linux and lose your mental sanity)
To recap:
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Use Chris Titus Tech’s Utility for quick, safe debloating
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Clean leftovers with Revo Uninstaller
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Disable telemetry and tracking using privacy tools
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Apply performance tweaks and sensible defaults
It takes under an hour and gives you a system that feels genuinely yours — not Microsoft’s.
Always remember: “My hardware My choice”.
— KMiguel