SSD or Solid State Drive is a great way to increase your read and write pace by leaps and bounds. But you can still do a lot to further improve performance. This article will give you some SSD optimization tips for better performance, so, go through them and pick the one that you like.
How to optimize SSD and increase SSD health in Windows 11
The following are the SSD optimization tips for better performance on your Windows 11/10 computer:
- Make sure to get the right device
- Disable Fast Startup
- Turn on TRIM
- Update SSD Firmware and Driver
- Enable AHCI
- Optimize SSD using Crucial Storage Executive
- Manage Write Caching
- Use High-Performance Power Plan
Best SSD Optimization Tips for better performance
1] Make sure to get the right device
You can not just get a random SSD and call it a day. Every device has some specifications, and you need to make sure that you are getting the right one. If you are on a desktop computer and planning to get a SATA SSD, the first thing to check is whether there are available slots or cables to plug the device in. Lack of space can force you to bug a Y-split cable, which is not a bad option, to plug in the drive. Apart from this, there are different variables, so, if an option is debatable, try consulting an expert.
2] Disable Fast Startup
SSDs are known for reducing the time required in the booting process and Fast Startup is meant to do the same. However, Fast Startup on top of SSD’s fast booting speed, doesn’t make a lot of difference. So, it would be better to just disable Fast Startup and allow your system to boot properly. Follow the given steps to disable Fast Startup.
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
- Click on Change what the power button does > Change settings that are currently available.
- Untick Turn on fast startup.
- Click Save Changes.
This will optimize your SSD.
3] Turn on TRIM
TRIM is a feature that signals to the SSD which blocks of data are no longer in use and can be safely wiped to make them writable again. This helps to improve SSD’s performance and should be enabled on your system. Windows tends to keep it enabled by default, but we are still going to check if the feature is working. To do that, open Command Prompt and run the following command.
fsutil behavior set disabledeletenotify 0
If you see Disabled, then TRIM is enabled. I know it’s counterintuitive, but do read the command.
4] Update SSD Firmware and Driver
Next, try updating the SSD Firmware on your drive and the device driver. The firmware can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website, and the device driver can be downloaded from any of the following methods.
- Download Driver and Optional Updates from Settings.
- Go to the manufacturer’s website and download your driver.
This will ensure that you are always up to date.
5] Enable AHCI
AHCI is an abbreviation of Advanced Host Controller Interface (AHCI), it specifies the operation of Serial ATA (SATA) host controllers in a non-implementation-specific manner in its motherboard chipsets. You need to enable the AHCI from BIOS and optimize your experience even further.
6] Optimize SSD using Crucial Storage Executive
Crucial Storage Executive is software that will help you optimize your Crucial SSD. It will also update your SSD’s firmware, driver, and other components. So, go ahead and download Crucial Storage Executive for free.
7] Manage Write Caching
Write Caching is one of the most controversial features. On some systems, it improves the experience, whereas on others, it deteriorates the SSD’s performance. We suggest trying to disable Write Caching and, if you see a dip in SSD performance, turning it back on.
8] Use High Performance Power Plan
Finally, we would ask you to High Performance Power Plan. This mode works great with SSD, however, it can take a bit of a toll on your battery. So, it’s a bit of a tradeoff, but if you agree, follow the prescribed steps to switch to High Performance Power Plan.
- Open Control Panel.
- Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
- Select High Performance Plan or Ultimate Performance Plan.
Close Control Panel, restart your computer and your SSD will be optimized.
Read: Things you must do when running an SSD in Windows 11.
Is optimization good for SSD?
Yes, optimization is good for everything. However, you need to make sure you are not over-optimizing. Also, many users tend to repeat tasks when trying to optimize their devices. So, if you want to optimize your SSD, make sure to execute the tips mentioned in this guide.
Read: Do you need to defrag SSD?
Does higher SSD increase performance?
Yes, SSDs will increase your system’s performance. They will not only have faster read and write speeds but also speed up the boot process. So, if you are in the market for something to improve your system, an SSD should be right at the top of your list.
Also Read: Fix Slow SSD Read or Write Speed on Windows PC.
