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Fullscreen optimization is a feature in Windows 11 designed to improve your gaming and app experience by reducing input lag and enhancing frame rates. However, sometimes this feature may not work as expected, causing performance issues or screen flickering.

If you’ve noticed that fullscreen optimization isn’t working on your PC, don’t worry. There are several simple steps you can take to fix the problem.

This article will guide you through easy-to-follow solutions, starting from the simplest fixes to more advanced options.

By the end, you should have a better understanding of how to get fullscreen optimization working smoothly again.

Quick Note: Before You Start

• Make sure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version. Sometimes, updates fix known issues.
• Check that your graphics drivers are up to date. Outdated drivers can cause fullscreen optimization problems.
• Confirm that the game or app you are using supports fullscreen optimization.
• Close unnecessary background apps to avoid conflicts.

Step 1: Disable and Re-enable Fullscreen Optimization for Specific Apps

Sometimes, toggling fullscreen optimization off and on for your game or app can fix issues.

1. Right-click on the shortcut or executable file of the game or app.
2. Select Properties.
3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
4. Check the box that says Disable fullscreen optimizations.
5. Click Apply and then OK.
6. Try running your game or app. If the problem persists, uncheck the box and apply the changes again.

Why this helps: Disabling fullscreen optimization forces Windows to run the app in a more traditional fullscreen mode. Re-enabling it can reset the feature and clear minor glitches.

Step 2: Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers are a common cause of fullscreen optimization problems.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Display adapters section.
3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
5. Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
6. Restart your computer.

Alternative: Visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest driver directly.

Step 3: Adjust Graphics Settings in Windows

Windows 11 allows you to control graphics performance per app. Setting your game or app to use high-performance mode may improve fullscreen optimization.

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Go to System > Display > Graphics.
3. Click Browse and select the game or app executable file.
4. Once added, click on it and choose Options.
5. Select High performance and click Save.

Why this matters: Using high-performance GPU can reduce lag and allow fullscreen optimization to function properly.

Step 4: Disable Game Mode Temporarily

Windows Game Mode can sometimes interfere with fullscreen optimization.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Gaming > Game Mode.
3. Toggle Game Mode off.
4. Restart your PC and test if fullscreen optimization works better.

Note: Game Mode is designed to optimize gaming but can cause conflicts on some systems.

Step 5: Modify Registry to Disable Fullscreen Optimization Globally

This is an advanced step and should be done carefully. Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system issues.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSystemGameConfigStore
3. Find the GameDVR_FSEBehaviorMode entry.
4. Double-click it and change its value to 2 to disable fullscreen optimizations globally.
5. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC.

Important: If you want to enable fullscreen optimization again, set the value back to 0.

FAQs

Why is fullscreen optimization not working for some games?

Some older games or apps might not support fullscreen optimization or may conflict with it due to how they handle graphics rendering.

Can fullscreen optimization cause performance issues?

Yes, in some cases, enabling fullscreen optimization can cause input lag or screen tearing, especially if drivers or Windows are outdated.

Is it safe to disable fullscreen optimization?

Yes, disabling fullscreen optimization is safe and can help fix specific issues, but you might lose some performance improvements.

Will updating Windows fix fullscreen optimization problems?

Often, yes. Microsoft frequently releases updates that improve features like fullscreen optimization, so keeping Windows updated is important.

Where can I find official support for fullscreen optimization?

You can visit the official Microsoft support website or the support pages of your GPU manufacturer for detailed help.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and fullscreen optimization still does not work, consider these final options:

• Reset Windows: Resetting your PC can fix deep system issues but should be your last resort.
• Contact Support: Reach out to Microsoft Support or your game/app developer for tailored assistance.
• Check Forums: Visit communities like Microsoft Answers, Reddit, or game-specific forums for solutions shared by other users.

Remember to back up important files before attempting major fixes like resetting Windows.

Conclusion

Fullscreen optimization can greatly enhance your gaming and app experience on Windows 11, but it can sometimes stop working correctly. By following the step-by-step solutions above—from toggling fullscreen optimization in app settings to updating drivers and adjusting Windows graphics options—you can resolve most common issues.

Always start with the simplest fixes and move to advanced options only if necessary. Keeping your system updated and tweaking settings carefully will help you enjoy smooth fullscreen performance.

With these tips, you should be able to fix fullscreen optimization problems and get back to a better Windows 11 experience.