Its not so uncommon to notice such an issue, and its also not that difficult to solve it.
Is one process taking up nearly all the CPU resources on your PC?
I have shortlisted all the precise methods to optimize CPU usage for all Windows users.
Enough chitchat, lets get started.
Why is My CPU Utilization Too High?
Additionally, outdated drivers, improper Windows configuration, and viruses or malware can also spike CPU usage.
When youre running a demanding AAA game or editing photos/videos, processor utilization reaching 80-90% is expected.
If its not a system service, go for the process & click onEnd task.
Also, run a malware scan & keep all the drivers up to date.
As a result, CPU usage can increase over time and the system starts to become laggy.
In such cases, the first thing you better do is reboot your gadget.
Completely shut down the system and wait a few minutes.
Now turn the unit back on and check whether the issue has been resolved or not.
If not, move on to the next step.
opt for program & hitEnd task.
However, if a system service/process is the culprit for high CPU utilization, caution is advised.
Numerous issues can emerge if you terminate a crucial system-related service.
So do a quick internet search before you close any services.
Thediagnostic policy process can trigger high CPU usesometimes.
As a remedy, do check our separate article for the fixes.
This service is comprised of several system operations such as Windows search, updates, etc.
you gotta follow some additional steps to properly disable it.
you could alsofix high CPU usage for DiscordandWMI provider host.
As a result, CPU utilization can skyrocket even when youre doing some light tasks.
To remedy this issue, you oughta suspend the startup apps and prevent them from running in the background.
Now reboot your PC and you should be good to go.
In case the issue still persists, move on to the next method.
If you havehigh CPU usage with svchost.exe, do not forget to check out our separate article.
You will get all the possible fixes needed there.
To do so, pressWindows key+Sand typevirus & threat.
Click onVirus & threat protectionand selectScan optionsfrom under theCurrent threatssection.
Now choose theFull scanoption and hitScan now.
Wait a few minutes until the scan is complete.
If it finds any virus or malware, itll remove them automatically.
Disable or Remove Anti-Virus
Having a reliable anti-virus software installed on your PC can be beneficial in many scenarios.
But the savior can often become the destroyer.
Anti-virus software hogging CPU resources is not entirely unheard of.
Go to theWindows Search bar& search forApps & features.
Now hitEnterand find the anti-virus program such asMcAfeeorAvast.
ClickUninstallto remove those programs from your setup.
You might need to cycle your rig to finish the uninstallation process.
PressWindows key+Sand typeadvanced system.
SelectView advanced system controls.
Now navigate to theHardwaretab and selectDevice Installation controls.
Then chooseYes, do this automatically(recommended)and hitSave Changes.
Finally, clickApply>OK.
After that, pressWindows key+Iand selectUpdate & Security.
Then hit theCheck for Updatesbutton.
Itll prompt driver updates for available hardware & services.
This will also fix excessive processor utilization issues for theMicrosoft block level backup engine.
Defrag C Drive
Slower hard drives can also be a reason for high CPU utilization.
FAQs
Why is my CPU usage so high?
CPU utilization can spike when youre doing resource-heavy tasks such as video editing or playing AAA games.
Is 90% CPU usage normal while playing games?
How long can a CPU run at 100% usage?
Your PC can run at 100% CPU usage as long as it doesnt overheat.
When the temperature reaches 95-100 degrees, the processor will start to reduce performance due to thermal throttling.
Can low RAM cause high CPU usage?
It is highly unlikely to experience high CPU usage due to low or slower RAM.
Conclusion
All things said and done, not all high CPU usage requires fixes.
In such a case, you should consider upgrading your desktop configuration.
Have a wonderful day!
