How to Control the CPU Fan on Windows 11

Windows 11 doesn’t provide built-in tools for monitoring or customizing CPU fan speed. You must turn to one of three alternative methods to control the CPU fan on Windows 11.

Use first-party software. Modern computers are often compatible with proprietary software to lets you change the CPU fan speed. This is the quickest, easiest solution, but you must download the correct software. Use BIOS. Most PCs ship with a BIOS which can display the current speed of your CPU fan, while more feature-rich BIOS will let you change the fan speed. You can accomplish this without downloading software, but it can be complex. Use a third-party utility. Third-party utilities are capable of detecting the speed of your CPU fan. A few even let you change it. These utilities work on a wide variety of hardware, but you may encounter bugs and compatibility issues.

How to Control the CPU Fan With First-Party Software

First-party software is developed by your PC manufacturer, or the manufacturer of your PC’s motherboard, for use with specific hardware. It will work without compatibility issues and is often the least difficult to use.

How to Control the CPU Fan With BIOS

BIOS is the rudimentary operating system on your PC’s motherboard. The BIOS software starts when you turn on the PC. Most BIOS let you view or customize CPU fan speed.

How to Control the CPU Fan With Third-Party Software

Third-party software is developed by a party other than the manufacturer of your PC. It has the benefit of working on a wide range of PCs, but you’re more likely to encounter it not working perfectly (it could run just fine, of course).

Why Can’t I Control My CPU Fan on Windows 11?

If you try all three methods above, yet none work, it’s possible your PC doesn’t allow CPU fan speed control. It might be blocked by the system BIOS, which is sometimes true of laptops, or your CPU fan might not be connected with a motherboard fan connector that allows fan speed control.