10 Essential Tweaks Every Power User Should Make After Installing Windows

Whether you're setting up a brand-new PC or doing a clean install of Windows, the default settings are rarely optimized for power users. If you're someone who values speed, customization, productivity, and privacy, there are several essential tweaks you should apply right after Windows boots up.

Here are the 10 essential post-installation tweaks every power user should make to supercharge their Windows experience:

1. Debloat Windows and Remove Bloatware

Windows comes preloaded with unnecessary apps like Candy Crush, Xbox Game Bar, and trialware that clog up your system. Use tools like O&O AppBuster or Windows10Debloater to remove them quickly.

Power Tip: Run PowerShell as Admin and use Get-AppxPackage * | Remove-AppxPackage to mass-uninstall default apps.

2. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Startup programs slow down boot time. Head to Task Manager > Startup and disable anything you don’t need immediately at startup. You’ll get faster boots and smoother performance.

3. Customize the Privacy Settings

Microsoft tracks a lot by default. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security and turn off telemetry, activity tracking, ad ID personalization, and app diagnostics.

Power Tip: Use ShutUp10++ for deep privacy control in one click.

4. Install a Better Package Manager: Chocolatey or Winget

Forget downloading software manually. Use Chocolatey or the built-in Winget to install and update software via command line.

Example:

winget install googlechrome
choco install vscode -y

This gives you control and speed with scripting capabilities for mass setups.

5. Activate God Mode for One-Click System Access

Create a new folder and rename it to:

GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}

This activates “God Mode,” a control panel with every setting in one place—ideal for deep system customization.

6. Tweak File Explorer for Efficiency

Go to File Explorer > View > Options and:

Set "Open File Explorer to: This PC"
Show hidden files and file extensions
Disable Quick Access if you prefer direct folder navigation

These small tweaks make navigation faster and more transparent.

7. Enable Clipboard History and Virtual Desktops

Go to Settings > System > Clipboard and turn on Clipboard history (Win + V).

Also, start using virtual desktops (Win + Ctrl + D) to organize workflows—like separate desktops for work, media, and communication.

8. Set Up Power User Tools

Install these essential tools for power users:

PowerToys (from Microsoft Store): Adds features like FancyZones, PowerRename, and Keyboard Manager.
Everything: Ultra-fast file search.
Ditto: Clipboard manager with history and syncing.
AutoHotkey: Automate repetitive tasks with custom scripts.

9. Customize the Taskbar and Start Menu

Remove unnecessary items, pin your most-used apps, and enable small taskbar icons for a clean look.

Use tools like StartAllBack or Start11 to bring back the classic Start Menu if you prefer function over fluff.

10. Optimize for Performance Over Visuals

Go to System > Advanced system settings > Performance Settings and select Adjust for best performance (or customize).

You’ll lose some animations but gain speed, especially on older hardware.

Bonus: Create a System Image

Once you’ve configured everything perfectly, create a system image using Macrium Reflect or Windows’ built-in Backup and Restore tool. This allows instant recovery in case of future issues.

Final Thoughts

These tweaks aren’t just for nerds—they’re for anyone who values a faster, cleaner, and more efficient system. By investing just 30–60 minutes after a fresh Windows install, you can save hours in the long run and enjoy a system that truly works for you.

Stay productive, stay secure—and never settle for stock settings.

````Retro-futurism````

Friday, May 30, 2025