How to Optimize Windows Server Performance and Reduce Resource Usage

How to Optimize Windows Server Performance and Reduce Resource Usage

1. Disable Unnecessary Services

Many services run by default that may not be needed.

 How:

• Open Services (services.msc).
• Disable unneeded ones like:
• Print Spooler (unless you’re sharing printers)
• Windows Search
• Remote Registry
• Fax
• Offline Files

2. Remove Bloatware and Unused Features

Use Server Manager to uninstall roles/features you don’t use.

Example PowerShell command:

Uninstall-WindowsFeature -Name Print-Services

3. Optimize Startup Programs

Prevent apps from auto-launching on boot:

• Use Task Manager > Startup tab
• Or msconfig to adjust boot settings

4. Monitor and Manage Resource Usage

Use Performance Monitor (perfmon) or Resource Monitor to identify bottlenecks.

Track:

• CPU spikes
• Memory usage
• Disk I/O
• Network usage

5. Schedule Regular Updates and Reboots

Keep the server patched and regularly rebooted to prevent memory leaks and service slowdowns.

6. Optimize Disk Usage

• Use Disk Cleanup or cleanmgr
• Delete temp files:

del /q /f /s %TEMP%\*

• Defrag mechanical drives (if used):

defrag C: /O

7. Manage Paging File Size

Adjust virtual memory settings:

• System Properties > Performance > Advanced > Virtual Memory
• Use system-managed size or set it to 1.5x - 2x the physical RAM.

8. Security & Antivirus

• Use a lightweight antivirus (like Defender in passive mode with Kaspersky).
• Avoid real-time scanning of frequently accessed server folders.

9. Power Settings

Ensure the server is set to High Performance mode:

powercfg /setactive SCHEME_MIN

10. Disable Indexing on Server Drives

Right-click drive > Properties > uncheck “Allow files on this drive to have contents indexed...”

Bonus: Use Performance-Boosting Tools

• Windows Admin Center for centralized monitoring and performance insights.
• Process Explorer for detailed process usage.
• PoolMon to analyze memory leaks in kernel mode.