Windows 10 and 11 come packed with features, but many default settings aren't optimized for peak performance, security, or usability. Here are nine crucial adjustments that can transform your computing experience without installing additional software.

1. Change Your Default Search Engine

Microsoft Edge defaults to Bing, but you can easily switch to Google or another preferred search engine:
1. Open Edge and click the three-dot menu
2. Select 'Settings' > 'Privacy, search, and services'
3. Under 'Services', click 'Address bar and search'
4. Choose your preferred search engine from the dropdown

This simple change can save time and deliver more relevant search results for your workflow.

2. Disable Windows Ads & Suggested Content

Windows includes promotional content that can be distracting:
- Start Menu Ads: Right-click Start > Settings > Personalization > Start > Turn off 'Show suggestions occasionally in Start'
- Lock Screen Ads: Settings > Personalization > Lock screen > Set 'Windows spotlight' to 'Picture'
- File Explorer Ads: Settings > Privacy & security > General > Turn off 'Show me suggested content in File Explorer'

3. Show File Extensions for Better Security

Hidden file extensions can make malware harder to spot:
1. Open File Explorer (Win+E)
2. Click 'View' > 'Show' > Check 'File name extensions'
3. For advanced users: 'Options' > 'Change folder and search options' > 'View' tab > Uncheck 'Hide extensions for known file types'

This helps identify suspicious files like 'document.pdf.exe' that might otherwise appear harmless.

4. Optimize HDR Calibration for Displays

For HDR-capable monitors:
1. Press Win+I and search for 'HDR'
2. Open 'HDR settings' and run the calibration tool
3. Adjust the HDR/SDR brightness balance slider (typically 40-60 works well)
4. Enable 'Auto HDR' for compatible games

Proper HDR settings dramatically improve color accuracy and contrast in supported content.

5. Manage OneDrive Smartly

OneDrive's default settings can impact performance:
- Files On-Demand: Right-click OneDrive icon > Settings > Sync and backup > Enable 'Files On-Demand'
- Startup Impact: Task Manager > Startup apps > Set OneDrive to 'Disabled' if not needed at boot
- Selective Sync: Choose which folders sync via OneDrive settings

These changes reduce storage and bandwidth usage while maintaining cloud backup benefits.

6. Configure Power Mode for Performance

Windows 11's power modes affect CPU behavior:
1. Open Settings > System > Power & battery
2. Under 'Power mode', select:
- 'Best performance' for desktops/creative work
- 'Balanced' for most laptops
- 'Best power efficiency' for maximum battery life
3. For advanced control: Edit power plan > Change advanced power settings

7. Install Microsoft PowerToys (Essential Utilities)

This free suite from Microsoft adds powerful tools:
- FancyZones: Advanced window snapping
- PowerRename: Bulk file renaming
- Color Picker: Grab colors from anywhere
- Keyboard Manager: Remap keys/shortcuts

Download from Microsoft Store or GitHub and explore its productivity-boosting features.

8. Set Optimal Refresh Rate

For high-refresh monitors:
1. Right-click desktop > Display settings
2. Scroll to 'Advanced display'
3. Choose highest available refresh rate
4. In NVIDIA/AMD control panels, ensure matching settings

This ensures buttery-smooth motion in games and general UI navigation.

9. Personalize the Taskbar

Right-click taskbar > Taskbar settings to:
- Disable 'Search' or reduce to icon
- Turn off 'Task view' if unused
- Enable 'Combine taskbar buttons' to reduce clutter
- Adjust alignment (Windows 11) or size (Windows 10)

Bonus: Disable Startup Programs

Task Manager > Startup tab shows all boot-time programs. Right-click unnecessary apps to disable them, significantly improving boot times.

These tweaks collectively can make Windows feel faster, more secure, and better tailored to your needs. While Microsoft's defaults work for most users, power users will appreciate the performance and usability gains from these adjustments.