Does your Windows 11 PC take forever to start? One simple tweak can make a big difference: Fast Startup. This feature helps your computer boot faster by saving essential system information to a file when you shut it down — kind of like putting your PC into a partial hibernation.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to enable Fast Startup in Windows 11, why it works, and when you might want to use it.
What Is Fast Startup?
Fast Startup is a Windows feature that combines elements of shutdown and hibernation. Instead of fully shutting down, it stores the core system state in a file so your PC can load it quickly the next time you turn it on.
Benefits of Enabling Fast Startup
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Quicker boot times – Start your PC in seconds.
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Better user experience – Less waiting, more doing.
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Energy efficiency – Saves power compared to a full boot cycle.
When Should You Avoid Fast Startup?
Fast Startup isn’t always the best option. You might want to skip it if:
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You use dual boot systems (it can cause conflicts).
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You need to access BIOS/UEFI frequently.
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Your system shows errors after shutdown.
How to Check If Fast Startup Is Enabled
Before making changes, let’s see if it’s already turned on.
Steps:
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Open Control Panel.
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Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
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Click Choose what the power buttons do.
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Look for Turn on fast startup.
If it’s checked, you’re good to go.
How to Enable Fast Startup in Windows 11
Method 1 – Through Control Panel
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Open the Control Panel.
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Click Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
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Select Choose what the power buttons do.
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Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
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Check Turn on fast startup (recommended).
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Click Save changes.
Method 2 – Using Command Prompt (Advanced Users)
If you prefer command-line tools:
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Search for Command Prompt, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
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Type:
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Press Enter.
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Then follow the Control Panel steps to enable Fast Startup.
How to Disable Fast Startup (If Needed)
If you face issues after enabling it:
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Repeat the steps to access the Power Options menu.
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Uncheck Turn on fast startup.
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Save changes and restart.
Does Fast Startup Affect Restart?
Yes — restart ignores Fast Startup. It always performs a full boot to refresh your system.
Will Fast Startup Save Open Files?
No. Only the system state is saved, not your open apps or documents.
Does Fast Startup Work on Laptops and Desktops?
Yes, it works on both, but laptops may already have similar quick-boot features enabled.
Can Fast Startup Drain the Battery?
On laptops, a minimal amount of power may be used to store the system state, but it’s negligible compared to regular sleep mode.
Troubleshooting Fast Startup Issues
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Option missing? Turn on hibernation using
powercfg /hibernate on. -
PC not shutting down fully? Disable Fast Startup.
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Experiencing errors after enabling? Try updating drivers or disabling it temporarily.
How to Make Windows 11 Boot Even Faster
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Disable unnecessary startup programs.
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Upgrade to an SSD if you haven’t already.
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Keep your system updated.
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Adjust BIOS/UEFI boot order.
Conclusion
Enabling Fast Startup in Windows 11 is a quick way to shave precious seconds off your boot time. For most users, it’s a hassle-free feature that improves startup speed without compromising performance. However, if you use dual boot systems or experience shutdown problems, you might want to leave it off.
FAQs
1. Is Fast Startup the same as Sleep mode?
No, Sleep keeps your session active, while Fast Startup closes programs and saves only core system data.
2. Does Fast Startup harm SSDs?
No, the effect on SSD lifespan is minimal.
3. Why is the Fast Startup option missing?
It may be because hibernation is disabled.
4. Can I enable Fast Startup without admin rights?
No, you need administrator privileges.
5. Does enabling Fast Startup affect updates?
Sometimes — certain updates may require a full restart instead of shutdown.