A recent Windows 11 security update released in December 2025 is triggering performance complaints from users reporting notable slowdowns [[1]]. The issue centers around the AppX Deployment Service (AppXSVC), a component typically dormant until needed, now launching automatically and consuming system resources [[2]]. While Microsoft acknowledges the problem and offers a registry-based workaround, disabling the service also prevents the use of core Windows apps obtained through the Microsoft Store [[3]].
Recent reports indicate that a December 2025 Windows 11 security update is causing performance issues for some users, with affected PCs experiencing noticeable slowdowns. The problem stems from an infrequently used system component that has been unexpectedly activated, consuming valuable hardware resources.
The component in question, known as the AppX Deployment Service (AppXSVC), is responsible for installing and updating applications from the Microsoft Store. Normally, this service remains inactive until needed during system startup. However, the latest security update appears to be launching AppXSVC automatically with the operating system. Lower-powered PCs, such as corporate laptops, are reportedly experiencing the most significant impact.
Microsoft has acknowledged the issue in a support document, stating that the AppXSVC service was activated to address isolated problems. The company notes that disabling the service is possible, but requires modification of the Windows Registry and comes with a significant caveat: turning off AppXSVC will render applications from the Microsoft Store – including essential utilities like Calculator, Notepad, and Photos – unusable.
How to Disable AppXSVC
- Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box, then type “regedit” and press Enter.
- Navigate to the following registry entry: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetServicesAppXSvc
- In the right pane, locate the “Start” entry. Its current value will be (2) Automatic or (3) Manual.
- To disable the service, change the value to (4), which represents Disabled, and then restart your PC.
