Windows 11 brought several improvements for gamers — DirectStorage, Auto HDR, better hybrid core management — but it also brought new background processes, telemetry features, and default settings that sacrifice performance in favor of convenience.
If you migrated to Windows 11 and noticed an FPS drop or more stutters, you're not alone. But the good news is that all of this is adjustable.
1. Disable VBS (Virtualization-Based Security)
VBS is one of the most controversial features in Windows 11. It uses hardware virtualization to isolate critical security processes, but at a cost: up to 25% FPS drop in some titles, especially CS2 and Valorant.
To check if it's active: search for "System Information" → check if "Virtualization-based security" is running. To disable it, you'll need to adjust BIOS settings and Group Policies.
2. Disable Memory Integrity
Related to VBS, Memory Integrity also impacts performance. Disable it in Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Security → Device Security → Core Isolation details.
3. Configure the correct power mode
Windows 11 uses the "Balanced" plan by default. For gaming, switch to "High Performance" or "Ultimate Performance". The latter may not appear in the default list and requires activation via PowerShell.
4. Disable the Xbox Game Bar
The Game Bar consumes resources even when not in use. Disable it completely in Settings → Gaming → Xbox Game Bar → toggle off.
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5. Adjust GPU settings in the NVIDIA/AMD panel
- NVIDIA: Power management mode → "Prefer maximum performance"
- NVIDIA: Vsync → Off (globally)
- NVIDIA: Low latency mode → Ultra
- AMD: Anti-Lag profile → Enabled
- AMD: Radeon Boost → Enabled (for compatible games)
6. Disable background applications
Windows 11 allows apps to keep running in the background even when closed. Disable in Settings → Apps → Installed apps → select the app → Advanced options → Background apps → Never.
7. Clean up startup
Task Manager → Startup. Disable everything non-essential. Fewer processes at boot = more free RAM for games.
8. Disable Windows telemetry
Windows 11 collects usage data in the background. Disable in Settings → Privacy & Security → Diagnostics & feedback → Optional diagnostic data → off.
9. Configure Game Mode
Enable Game Mode in Settings → Gaming → Game Mode. On PCs with 8+ cores, it helps prioritize the game. On PCs with 4-6 cores, it can interfere — test and see what works best.
10. Update drivers regularly
Outdated drivers are one of the main causes of performance issues. Keep GPU, chipset, network, and audio always updated via the manufacturer's website (don't use Windows Update for this).
Beyond the basic tweaks
These 10 tweaks are what any user can do. UPBOOST's professional optimization goes deeper: registry tweaks, IRQ configuration, timer resolution tuning, and settings that aren't available through the Windows GUI. It's the level that makes the difference in 1% lows and frame consistency.