Microsoft has developed a new method to speed up application launches across Windows 11, testing the mechanism first on its native Edge web browser.
The update changes how the operating system handles software commands by removing unnecessary background processes whenever a user launches a program from the Start menu or the taskbar.
Currently, opening the browser can cause Windows to spin up an additional temporary process, even when Edge is already running in background mode. That extra workload creates noticeable delays before the application opens, particularly when the computer is already under heavy system strain.
Under the new approach, the operating system bypasses the temporary process entirely and transfers the startup request straight to the running instance of the browser. Microsoft designed the tweak to eliminate startup lag, make Edge feel significantly more responsive, and quicken everyday computing tasks.
Broader performance plans for Windows
The company is using the browser trial as the starting point for a broader optimization push across Windows 11. Microsoft plans to apply the same architectural change to other desktop applications, using the mechanism to reduce startup delays throughout the entire operating system.
Another primary focus of the engineering effort involves tuning Windows 11 for machines with limited random access memory. The problem is particularly noticeable on older hardware and computers equipped with traditional mechanical hard drives rather than solid state drives, where any unnecessary background task puts a heavy drag on overall system speed.
Windows 11 is Microsoft's primary desktop platform, used by hundreds of millions of people worldwide across a vast range of consumer and enterprise hardware. Its integrated browser, Edge, is built on the open source Chromium engine and runs deeply woven into the operating system, making its efficiency critical to overall machine performance.
Release scheduled for November update
The new mechanism has already been rolled out to testers in Windows 11 preview build KB5127936. Microsoft plans to deliver the finished feature to general users as part of its upcoming November 2026 update.
The performance improvements are expected to offer the greatest benefit to users who frequently keep multiple programs running at once and currently experience frustrating pauses when opening their browser.
