How to optimize the performance of Windows 11 Home when running Office 2021

Are you experiencing slow performance or delays on your Windows 11 Home PC with Microsoft Office 2021?

You are not alone. Many users notice system delays, especially when multitasking or working with large Excel or Word files. The good news is: with a few important optimizations, you can significantly improve the responsiveness of your PC.

This guide will show you practical steps to ensure that Windows 11 Home runs smoothly while you use productivity tools such as Microsoft Office 2021 use.

Why Windows 11 Home can become slower with Office 2021

Although Windows 11 Home is optimized for general users, you may sometimes experience lag when many background apps and demanding Office tasks are running at the same time. Here are some common causes:

• Insufficient RAM or too little storage space
• Autostart programs that consume resources
• Outdated driver or Office version
• Background synchronization from OneDrive or Teams

The best ways to boost performance on Windows 11 Home

1. deactivate autostart programs

Autostart apps can slow down your system even before you open Word or Excel.

How to deactivate it:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, in order to Task Manager to open
• Go to the tab Autostart
• Deactivate unnecessary programs (such as Spotify, Skype, etc.)

2. adjust power settings in Windows 11

Set up your system so that performance takes priority over appearance.

• Go to System > Info > Advanced system settings
• Under Performance click on Settings
• Select Customize for best performance

3. deactivate visual effects and animations

Complex transitions can put a strain on the CPU. Deactivate them:

• In the Start menu, search for Performance options
• Under Visual effects select User-defined
• Deactivate animations and unnecessary effects

4. release storage space

Low memory space can slow down Office applications considerably.

• Use the integrated Storage optimization (Storage Sense):
• Settings > System > Memory > Activate memory optimization
• Uninstall unused apps
• Delete temporary files

5. restrict OneDrive and Microsoft Teams autostart

These apps can synchronize automatically and eat up memory.

• Right-click on OneDrive > Settings > Deactivate Start OneDrive automatically
• In Teams: Settings > General > Check mark for Start automatically Remove

Optimize Office 2021 settings for better speed

1. deactivate add-ins

Office add-ins can extend the start time.

• Open Word or Excel
• Go to File > Options > Add-Ins
• Deactivate unused add-ins under COM add-ins

2. Use 64-bit version of Office

If you are working with large files, make sure that you are using the 64-bit version of Microsoft Office 2021 to ensure better memory utilization.

3. Keep Office up to date

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve performance.

• Open a Office app > File > Account > Update options > Update now

Recommended system requirements for a smooth Office-2021 experience

Conclusion

A well-optimized Windows 11 Home system can easily run Office 2021 Standard without lags. By following the steps above - adjusting performance settings, disabling background apps and configuring Office - you will enjoy a smoother, faster working experience.

For more expert guides, tools and offers, visit winandofficews.

FAQ

Q1: Why does Excel 2021 freeze under Windows 11 Home?

A: This often happens due to insufficient RAM, outdated add-ins or because Excel has to process large files without sufficient memory. Deactivate unnecessary add-ins and consider a RAM upgrade.

Q2: Is Windows 11 Home suitable for professional Office work?

A: Yes, Windows 11 Home supports all the features of Office 2021, but you can significantly improve multitasking and file processing by optimizing the settings.

Q3: Can I upgrade my Office 2021 if it becomes too slow?

A: If you are using a 32-bit version, switch to the 64-bit edition. Also make sure that you are using the latest Office updates. You can find options here.