Windows 11 comes packed with numerous background services and features that, while useful in many scenarios, can slow down your system or introduce vulnerabilities. If your goal is to run only Chrome and minimize your system's exposure to unwanted changes, you can significantly optimize Windows 11 by disabling unnecessary processes and locking down system settings. This guide walks you through the steps to achieve a minimal, secure Windows 11 setup optimized specifically for Chrome browsing.

Method 1: Using Windows 11 Built-in Tools to Minimize Running Processes

Step 1: First, open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Once Task Manager opens, click on the "Startup" tab. Here, you'll see a list of applications that automatically start when Windows boots.

Step 2: Right-click any unnecessary applications and select "Disable" to prevent them from starting automatically. This step reduces the load on your system and ensures more resources are available for Chrome.

Step 3: Next, press Win + R to open the Run dialog. Type services.msc and hit Enter. This opens the Services window, displaying all Windows services.

Step 4: Carefully review the list and disable services that aren't necessary for basic system functionality or Chrome operation. For example, services related to Xbox, Bluetooth (if unused), or remote desktop can typically be safely disabled. To disable a service, double-click it, set its startup type to "Disabled," and click "Stop" if it's running. Always research a service before disabling it to avoid disrupting essential functionality.

Step 5: To further streamline your system, open Settings by pressing Win + I. Navigate to "Privacy & security," then scroll down to "App permissions."

Step 6: Here, disable permissions for applications and features you don't use, such as Location, Camera, Microphone, and Background Apps. Turning off unnecessary background apps significantly reduces resource usage and enhances system responsiveness.

Method 2: Configuring Windows 11 to Run Chrome in Kiosk Mode

Step 1: Windows 11 includes a built-in Kiosk Mode, allowing you to run a single application exclusively and restrict access to other system areas. To set Chrome as a kiosk app, open Settings (Win + I), select "Accounts," and then click "Family & other users."

Step 2: Under "Set up a kiosk," click "Get started." Follow the prompts to create a new kiosk account.

Step 3: When asked to choose an app, select "Google Chrome." Configure Chrome settings according to your needs, such as specifying a default webpage or restricting certain browser features. Once configured, Windows will automatically log into this kiosk account, running Chrome exclusively, effectively removing access to other applications and system settings.

Step 4: To exit kiosk mode, press Ctrl + Alt + Del and sign out or shut down the system. Note that kiosk mode significantly restricts user access, making it ideal for public terminals or dedicated browsing stations.

Method 3: Locking Windows 11 Against System Changes

Step 1: To prevent unauthorized system modifications, Windows 11 offers robust security policies. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.

Step 2: Navigate to "Computer Configuration" > "Administrative Templates" > "Control Panel." Here, you can restrict access to system settings by enabling policies such as "Prohibit access to Control Panel and PC settings."

Step 3: Next, navigate to "Computer Configuration" > "Windows Settings" > "Security Settings" > "Local Policies" > "Security Options."

Step 4: Here, configure settings such as "User Account Control: Run all administrators in Admin Approval Mode" to strengthen system security. By enabling strict UAC policies, you ensure that system modifications require explicit administrative approval.

Step 5: Additionally, consider enabling BitLocker Drive Encryption by navigating to "Control Panel" > "System and Security" > "BitLocker Drive Encryption." Encrypting your drive ensures that unauthorized users cannot access or modify your data even if physical security is compromised.

By following these steps, you can effectively streamline Windows 11 to run Chrome exclusively while strengthening your system against unwanted modifications. Regularly review these settings to maintain optimal performance and security.