How Often Should I Restart My Windows Computer?

Restarting your Windows 11 computer regularly is generally recommended for several reasons, including:

Improved performance: Over time, open applications and background processes can consume memory and resources, leading to slowdowns. A restart clears these processes, freeing up memory and improving overall performance.
Applying updates: Many Windows updates and security patches require a reboot to be fully installed and take effect. Regularly restarting ensures your system stays up-to-date and protected against potential vulnerabilities.
Resolving issues: A restart can often resolve minor software glitches, crashes, or peripheral issues by refreshing the system and its components.
Hardware and software stability: Regular restarts can help prevent issues caused by resource conflicts or memory leaks, ensuring that your hardware and software are operating optimally.

Recommendations

For optimal performance and security, a restart at least once a week is a good practice.
Consider restarting more frequently if you notice your computer is running slow, experiencing errors, or after installing new software or updates.
While modern operating systems are designed to handle prolonged uptime, regularly restarting offers several benefits that contribute to a healthier and more efficient computing experience.