If you’ve ever noticed your computer running slow, the culprit might be apps running in the background. Fortunately, Windows 10 has a feature that lets you put these apps to sleep, saving power and improving performance. Here’s how you can quickly and easily put apps to sleep on Windows 10.
How to Put Apps to Sleep on Windows 10
In this section, we’re going to go through the steps to put apps to sleep on Windows 10. This will help you conserve battery life and make your computer run smoother.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Start Menu and click on the Settings gear icon.
Opening the Settings menu is the first step. You can also get there quicker by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
Step 2: Navigate to Privacy Settings
In the Settings menu, click on Privacy.
Once you’re in the Privacy section, you’ll find a list of options on the left side. This is where you’ll make your adjustments.
Step 3: Select Background Apps
On the left side, scroll down and click on Background apps.
Here, you will see a list of apps that are allowed to run in the background. These are the apps you can put to sleep.
Step 4: Turn Off Background Apps
Toggle the switch next to the apps you want to put to sleep.
By turning off the switch, you prevent the app from running in the background. You can always turn it back on if you need it later.
Step 5: Close Settings
After you’ve turned off the apps you want to put to sleep, simply close the Settings window.
You’ve now successfully put your chosen apps to sleep. You should notice better performance and battery life.
After you complete these steps, your computer will no longer allow those apps to run in the background, freeing up resources and improving performance.
Tips for Putting Apps to Sleep on Windows 10
- Check which apps you actually need in the background. Some apps, like email clients, might need to stay active.
- Regularly review your Background apps list to keep your system optimized.
- Turn off background apps if you’re using a laptop and want to save battery life.
- Be aware that turning off some apps might stop notifications from coming through.
- Consider using Task Manager to see which apps are consuming the most resources before deciding which to put to sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I put apps to sleep on Windows 10?
Putting apps to sleep helps conserve battery life and improves your computer’s performance by freeing up system resources.
Will putting apps to sleep affect app functionality?
Yes, it might stop background activities like notifications, so make sure you don’t put essential apps to sleep.
Can I wake up the apps I put to sleep?
Absolutely. Just follow the same steps and toggle the switch back on to wake them up.
Do I need to put apps to sleep manually every time?
No, once you turn off background activity for an app, it will stay off until you turn it back on.
Can I put system apps to sleep?
Be cautious about putting system apps to sleep, as it might affect your computer’s overall functionality.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Privacy Settings.
- Select Background Apps.
- Turn off Background Apps.
- Close Settings.
Conclusion
Putting apps to sleep on Windows 10 is a simple yet effective way to boost your computer’s performance and save battery life. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily manage which apps are allowed to run in the background. Doing this helps ensure that your computer runs smoothly and efficiently.
Remember, while it’s tempting to put all apps to sleep, some might need to stay active to keep you updated with notifications or other important information. Regularly checking and adjusting your settings can go a long way in maintaining optimal performance.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring other Windows 10 settings that can further enhance your user experience. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.