Yesterday I prepared a few years old Windows laptop for my daughter to use in school.
It took me a few hours just to install updates, remove bloatware (my oh my, the amount is staggering!) and fix privacy settings. And this was for Windows 10 which I hear is a mild version of a mess that Windows 11 is.
I was instantly reminded why I appreciate Apple software more.
1. Yes first thing I run if I ever have to use a Windows PC is this little gem called Shutup 10 (1).
2. Then there is another software called 10AppsManager (2) to remove further bloatware like Onedrive, Skype, etc.
3. After that I visit ninite.com (3) to get the usual software without toolbars and spyware.
4. For other software like ffmpeg I use choco or chocolatey (4).
I am now a full time linux user but this was the least painful way to get my PC running before that. I'm sure things have changed or improved since, but this really worked for me 2 years ago.. hope this helps someone.
(1) https://www.oo-software.com/en/shutup10