General IT

How to Control Startup Apps in Windows 11

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Too many apps starting at sign-in can make your desktop feel slow. You can stop an app launching automatically without removing it.

Review startup entries

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Choose Startup apps and look at the app names and startup impact. Begin with something you recognise and do not need every time you sign in.

Change one app at a time

Right-click an entry and choose Disable. Restart and check whether your normal work still functions. If you need the app to start automatically again, return to Startup apps and choose Enable.

Protect essential tools

Do not disable antivirus, backup, VPN or device-management software without understanding its purpose. If your PC belongs to an employer, follow the organisation’s IT policy.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: performance tips.

Secure Your Home Wi-Fi Router in Five Checks

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Your router connects your devices to the internet. A few checks can improve its security without changing advanced network settings.

Check both passwords

The Wi-Fi password joins devices to the network; the router admin password changes its settings. Replace a default admin password and use a long, unique Wi-Fi password. Save both in a secure manager.

Review protection and updates

Use a modern wireless security mode supported by your router and devices. Check the provider or manufacturer’s instructions for firmware updates, and turn on automatic updates where available.

Separate guest access

If available, give visitors a guest network rather than your main Wi-Fi details. Check connected devices occasionally. Before changing settings on a provider-supplied or shared router, confirm you have permission and a way to restore service.

Further reading: NCSC: small organisations guide.

Use Windows 11 Snap Layouts to Work Faster

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Snap layouts help arrange open windows so you can read a source while writing notes or compare two documents.

Try a two-window layout

Open the first window and press Windows key + Left Arrow. Select a second open window for the remaining space. You can also hover over a window’s Maximise button and pick a Snap layout.

Adjust your setup

Drag a window to an edge or corner to position it. Layout choices depend on screen size and the windows open. Put reference material on one side and the document you are editing on the other.

If snapping does not work

Check Settings > System > Multitasking and ensure Snap windows is turned on. Some apps may behave differently; test with File Explorer and a browser before troubleshooting one particular app.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: multitasking.

An IT Troubleshooting Checklist Before You Call Support

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A short record of the problem helps support identify the cause more quickly and avoids repeating the same checks.

Describe what happened

Write down the exact error message, when it began and what you were doing. Note whether it affects one app, one device or other people too. Record the app name and device type.

Try low-risk checks

Save work and restart the affected app or device once. Check power, cables and network status. If you recently installed something or changed a setting, mention it; do not repeatedly reset accounts or reinstall software without a backup.

Send a useful support ticket

Include the error, time, impact and steps you tried. Attach a screenshot after removing passwords and personal data. On a work computer, use your official help desk rather than an unexpected remote-support caller.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: Windows help.

Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts Worth Remembering

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You do not need to memorise dozens of shortcuts. Start with a few that match work you already do every day.

Move around Windows

Windows key + E opens File Explorer; Windows key + I opens Settings; Alt + Tab switches apps. Windows key + D shows the desktop, and Windows key + L locks the screen when you step away.

Manage windows and problems

Windows key + Left Arrow or Right Arrow snaps the current window. Windows key + Tab opens Task View. Ctrl + Shift + Esc opens Task Manager when you need to see running apps.

Capture and paste

Windows key + Shift + S opens the screenshot selection overlay. Windows key + V opens clipboard history if enabled. Avoid using clipboard history for sensitive information on a shared computer.

Pick three shortcuts and practise them for a week; add more only when those feel natural.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: multitasking.

Turn On Clipboard History in Windows 11

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Clipboard history lets you choose from items copied recently rather than only the most recent one. Use it carefully if you handle private information.

Switch it on

Press Windows key + V and follow the prompt if clipboard history is not enabled. Copy two non-sensitive snippets, press Windows key + V again and select the item you want to paste.

Review privacy settings

Open Settings > System > Clipboard and check whether any option to sync copied items between devices is enabled. Avoid copying passwords or confidential client data into clipboard history.

Clear old items

Open Windows key + V and choose Clear all, or clear clipboard data in Clipboard settings. Pinned items may need to be removed separately. Turn history off if you do not find it useful.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: clipboard.

Use Virtual Desktops in Windows 11

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Virtual desktops can separate a busy screen into visual workspaces for writing, meetings and research.

Create another desktop

Press Windows key + Tab and select New desktop. Open the apps you want for that task. Keep a second desktop for a different project or your meeting tools.

Move between your workspaces

Use Windows key + Ctrl + Left Arrow or Right Arrow to switch. Task View also shows your open windows so you can move a window to another desktop.

Know the limit

Virtual desktops do not separate files, Windows accounts or permissions. If you need to keep work and personal logins apart, use separate accounts or browser profiles rather than treating desktops as a security control.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: multitasking.

Take Screenshots with Snipping Tool in Windows 11

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A clear screenshot can help explain an error to support or demonstrate a step in a guide.

Capture the right area

Press Windows key + Shift + S to open the capture overlay. Choose the area or window you need. Open the resulting notification to review and save the image, or paste it into a document.

Show enough context

Include the app name and exact error message when asking for help. Note what you did just before the error and whether it happens every time. A cropped image without context may make diagnosis harder.

Inspect before sharing

Look for account names, email addresses, customer details and notifications. Remove sensitive information in an editor and inspect the saved file before attaching it to a ticket or posting it publicly.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: Snipping Tool.

Quiet Windows 11 Notifications During Focus Time

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When alerts constantly interrupt a task, configure Do not disturb instead of switching off every notification permanently.

Turn on Do not disturb

Open Settings > System > Notifications and find Do not disturb. Turn it on when you need uninterrupted time. Review notifications afterwards so you do not miss something important.

Allow essential interruptions

Review priority notifications for reminders and apps that truly need your attention. Test the settings before an important meeting; an over-restrictive setup may silence alerts you rely on.

Make a routine

Use the automatic Do not disturb options for regular quiet hours if they suit your schedule. Windows Focus sessions can also silence notifications while you work.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: notifications and Do not disturb.

Back Up a Windows 11 PC: What to Check

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A backup only helps when it contains the files you need and you know how to recover them.

List your important files

Check Documents, Desktop, Pictures and any project folders outside the usual locations. Include application files, website exports and business records where relevant.

Review Windows Backup

Search Start for Windows Backup. Review its folder and settings options and confirm the correct account is signed in. If folders use OneDrive, check storage availability and whether files appear on another device.

Keep another copy

Synced settings and a list of apps are not the same as a full backup of every folder. Keep an independent copy of important data on another drive or trusted backup service.

Test recovery

Restore a harmless test file and open it. If you cannot recover it, adjust the plan before relying on it. Disconnect a removable backup drive when you are not using it.

Further reading: Microsoft Support: Windows Backup.