Computer Running Slow After a Windows Update? Here is Why
A Windows update that leaves your computer slower than before is a frustrating but common experience. Here are the specific reasons it happens and how to fix it.
Why updates sometimes cause slowdowns
Windows updates can slow computers for several reasons: post-update indexing (Windows re-indexes your files for search after a major update, which uses significant CPU for several hours), driver compatibility issues (an update may replace a driver with a newer version that performs worse on your specific hardware), or background update processes that continue running after the visible update completes.
Give it time first
Many post-update slowdowns resolve themselves within a few hours. Windows Update often triggers background processes — antivirus re-scanning, Cortana re-indexing, and system optimisation tasks — that all run after a major update. Before investigating further, give your computer a full working day to settle after a significant update.
Check what is consuming resources
Open Task Manager immediately after the slowdown and check what is using the most CPU and disk. Common culprits after updates: MsMpEng.exe (Windows Defender scanning), SearchIndexer.exe (rebuilding the search index), TiWorker.exe (Windows Update still installing components), and svchost.exe (various Windows services).
Roll back a problematic driver
If a specific update installed a new driver that is causing problems, you can roll it back. Open Device Manager, find the device with the new driver, right-click and select Properties, then click Roll Back Driver. This is particularly useful for graphics drivers and network adapters where manufacturer-specific versions often outperform the generic Windows Update version.
When to use System Restore
If your computer was significantly faster before a specific update and giving it time has not helped, System Restore can return Windows to its state before the update without deleting your personal files. Search for System Restore in the Start menu and choose a restore point from before the update. This is a safe and underused tool that solves many post-update problems.
Get a full computer health check in minutes
Cerebro Scan gives you 17 tabs of live diagnostic data on any Mac or Windows PC — no installation required. Launching very soon.
Learn More →