Windows 11 25H2 comes with many pre-installed applications and background services. While some of them are useful, a large portion is unnecessary for most users. These apps take up storage, run in the background, and can negatively impact system performance.
So, how to debloat Windows 11 25H2 on your PC? In this guide, Your System Fixer introduces two effective methods:
- A built-in method using Group Policy Editor
- A powerful third-party tool: Chris Titus Tech Windows Utility
We will also compare both approaches so you can choose the best one for your needs.
TL;DR –Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Before diving into the text steps, you can follow along with my full video walk-through to see these exact changes applied in real-time:
Why You Should Debloat Windows 11
Modern versions of Windows 11 include many pre-installed apps such as Xbox services, Copilot, Teams, Clipchamp, and various background utilities.
While these are designed to enhance the Microsoft ecosystem, they are not always necessary for every user. Debloating Windows 11 will help you:
- Free up disk space
- Reduce background processes
- Improve system performance
- Remove unwanted startup apps
If your system feels slow or cluttered, debloating is one of the most effective optimization steps.
Method 1: The Built-in Way Using Group Policy Editor
If you prefer a secure approach without downloading third-party software, Windows 11 offers a native way to intercept default app deployments. This option is reliable but comes with a specific layout requirement.
Tip: Group Policy Editor is indeed limited to Pro and above, and some policies may not work on Home.
Step 1. Type Group Policy into the search bar and select Edit group policy.
Step 2. Inside the Local Group Policy Editor window, expand the left-side structure to navigate through the following path:
Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment
Step 3. On the right-side pane, find the policy “Remove default Microsoft Store packages from the system.”
Step 4. Double-click the policy and set its configuration status to Enabled.
Once enabled, you can make adjustments or customize the list of pre-configured application packages to remove. You can choose apps like:
- Xbox apps
- Microsoft Teams
- Clipchamp
- Feedback Hub
- Copilot
However, be careful—some system apps may affect user experience if removed.
⚠️ Crucial Native Limitation: This built-in policy applies only to newly created local user accounts. To see the changes take effect, you must create a new user profile after applying the settings. Furthermore, it only addresses basic Microsoft Store apps, leaving deep background telemetry untouched.
Method 2: Chris Titus Tech Windows Utility (Advanced Debloat)
For users looking for a much deeper system cleanup that removes stubborn background services, stops tracker logs, and frees up maximum storage space, try the open-source Chris Titus Tech (CTT) Windows Utility is an exceptional solution.
Step 1. Search for PowerShell and select Run as Administrator.
Step 2. In the elevated PowerShell window, copy and paste the following command, and hit Enter.
irm christitus.com/win | iex
Step 3. In the pop-up Chris Titus Tech (CTT) Windows Utility setup, navigate to Tweaks, and you can make some changes to Essential Tweaks and Advanced Tweaks.
Step 4. You can start with the safe Essential Tweaks option such as:
- Removing temporary files
- Disabling telemetry
- Turning off activity history
- Disabling location tracking
- Running disk cleanup
These improve performance without risk.
Step 5. If you want to adjust Advanced Tweaks (Optional) for a cleaner experience, try disabling these options:
Note: Avoid changing Advanced Tweaks like Windows Update, Defender, Edge removal, and core services. These can affect system stability or break features. Always create a system restore point before applying any tweaks to ensure you can safely roll back if something goes wrong.
- Background apps
- Storage Sense
- Microsoft Edge features
- Xbox components
- Copilot integration
Step 6. Once you select your desired optimizations, click the Run Tweaks button. The progress log at the bottom will display live updates. Once finished, a quick system reboot will finalize the process.
Built-in Group Policy vs. Chris Titus Tool: Quick Comparison
To help you decide which optimization route fits your skill level and needs, here is a quick breakdown of the two methods:
| Method | Built-in Group Policy | Chris Titus Utility |
| Best for | Beginner / Native | Intermediate / Advanced Users |
| Scope of Cleanup | Basic Windows Store Apps | Deep System, Telemetry & Services |
| Application Target | New User Accounts Only | Current Active System Globally |
| Risk Factor | Low Risk | Low-to-Medium (Restore Point Advised) |
| Additional Extras | None | Disk Cleanup, Classic Menu, Updates Check |
Conclusion: Which Method Should You Use
Choosing the right method depends on your comfort level. Casual users can safely use Group Policy for basic app removal. However, for maximum snappiness, running the Chris Titus tool’s safe tweaks yields vastly superior performance results by clearing background trackers.
Apply these optimizations for a highly responsive Windows 11 25H2 setup. For a step-by-step visual demonstration of both methods, watch our embedded video, like, and subscribe to Your System Fixer for more practical Windows tips!
