Category: Windows Guides
Author: jmarket
Tags: Windows 11, Optimization, Privacy, WinUtil, Guides
Introduction
Windows 11 is powerful out of the box, but it comes with a fair bit of bloat and background services most users don’t need.
This guide walks you through optimizing Windows 11 using Chris Titus Tech’s WinUtil, a trusted open-source tool that simplifies system cleanup, privacy tuning, and performance tweaks — all in one dashboard.
⚙️ What Is WinUtil?
WinUtil (short for “Windows Utility”) is a PowerShell-based optimization tool created by Chris Titus Tech.
It automates common setup tasks like:
- Removing bloatware safely
- Adjusting privacy and telemetry settings
- Enabling useful Windows features
- Managing services and updates
- Applying performance tweaks
All options are transparent and open-source, so you can review the code before applying anything.
🚀 Installing WinUtil
1. Right-click the Start menu → select Windows Terminal (Admin)
2. Paste the following command and press Enter:
Code:
irm https://christitus.com/win | iex
3. Wait a few moments — the WinUtil interface will launch automatically.
🧩 Using the Dashboard
Once open, you’ll see several tabs. Here’s what each does:
🧹 Tweaks Tab
- Disable telemetry and background data collection
- Turn off unwanted startup apps and services
- Adjust Windows Update behavior (pause or control updates)
- Enable “Ultimate Performance” power plan
📦 Install Tab
- Quickly install common apps via Winget (e.g., 7-Zip, Firefox, Notepad++, VLC)
- Use “Custom” to build your own app list
🧯 Uninstall Tab
- Remove preinstalled Microsoft Store apps (Mail, News, Weather, etc.)
- Safely clean bloat without breaking system components
🔄 Updates Tab
- Keep Winget and PowerShell modules current
- Sync your tweaks for re-deployment after major Windows updates
🛡️ Recommended Settings for Everyday Users
For most users, we suggest enabling:
- Disable Telemetry & Ads
- Set Power Plan → Balanced or Ultimate Performance
- Disable Cortana
- Disable Background Apps
- Enable Storage Sense
- Show File Extensions
- Set DNS to 1.1.1.1 or 9.9.9.9
💡 Tip: Always create a System Restore Point before applying bulk tweaks.
WinUtil can do this automatically under the “Backup” section.
🖥️ Optional: Advanced Tuning
For experienced users:
- Enable Performance Tweaks to reduce latency and visual fluff
- Use Service Tweaks to disable Windows components you never use (e.g., Xbox services, Fax)
- Apply Network Tweaks for improved throughput and reduced DNS latency
⚠️ Note: Don’t disable services you’re unfamiliar with. When in doubt, leave defaults checked.
🌈 Finishing Touches
Once tweaks are applied:
- Reboot your PC
- Reopen WinUtil and confirm your selected settings remain active
- Optionally export your config for future reinstalls (handy after feature updates)
✅ Final Thoughts
Chris Titus Tech’s WinUtil is one of the safest and most effective ways to streamline Windows 11.
It lets you customize your experience without registry diving or risky “debloat” scripts found online.
Regular maintenance — running updates, cleaning unused apps, and checking privacy settings — will keep your system fast, private, and stable long-term.
📸 Screenshots



🔗 Resources