Stop Background Apps from Slowing You Down

Stop Background Apps from Slowing You Down

Written by : Mary Rose - Cybersecurity Expert
Published on 2025-10-16 / 17:35

Why Background Apps Affect System Performance

Background apps continuously consume system resources such as CPU cycles, memory, and network bandwidth. While some are necessary (like antivirus or cloud sync tools), others can drain power and slow down systems.

Key issues caused by background apps:

Reduced battery life on laptops
Higher CPU and memory usage
Sluggish system performance
Potential security vulnerabilities

Controlling which apps run in the background helps ensure that only essential processes are active, improving efficiency and stability.

In Windows, apps can continue to perform actions even when you are not actively in the app’s window. These are commonly called background apps. You can decide which apps will run in the background, and which won't.

How to Stop Background Apps on Windows

Windows systems often have multiple apps configured to run in the background. You can disable them through Settings, Task Manager, or Group Policy.

Control which apps can run in the background

Select Start, then select Settings > Privacy > Background apps.
Under Background Apps, make sure Let apps run in the background is turned on.
Under Choose which apps can run in the background, turn individual apps and services settings On or Off.

Stop most apps from running in the background

Select Start, then select Settings > Privacy > Background apps.
Under Background Apps, make sure Let apps run in the background is turned off.

Using Task Manager

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Go to the Startup tab.
Right-click unnecessary apps and choose Disable.

Using Group Policy Editor (Windows Pro/Enterprise)

Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Privacy.
Set Let Windows apps run in the background to Disabled.

These steps will help IT admins ensure critical systems don’t run unnecessary processes that waste resources.

Check the App's Settings for a Background Activity Option

Even if not installed through the Microsoft Store, some apps let you control whether they run in the background. However, the setting to turn off these background apps isn't in the Windows Settings app or Group Policy Editor.

Chrome is a good example of this. Open the browser's settings (select the three-dot menu at the top and Settings), choose System on the left, and then turn off Continue running background apps when Google Chrome is closed.

What Happens When I Turn Off Background Apps?

The idea behind turning off background apps is to conserve system resources and power when the app isn't in use. Preventing an app's background use means it will no longer send or receive notifications, sync information, or stay up to date until you open it.

If you find that one of your apps causes your laptop battery to drain even when you're not actively using it, following the above steps can help make your laptop battery last longer. You could also save memory and bandwidth if the background app is sucking up too much of those resources.

When you shut off a program's ability to run in the background, you're instructing your computer to free up that power, memory, etc., so it can be used for the apps you are actively using.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to stop apps from running in the background is an essential performance and security practice for IT teams, cybersecurity professionals, and everyday users. By controlling which processes stay active, you can significantly improve speed, extend battery life, and minimize potential vulnerabilities.