How to fix 100% disk usage on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for fixing 100% disk usage on Windows.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To fix 100% disk usage on Windows, you can try several methods including disabling Windows Search, updating drivers, or checking for malware. Each method addresses different potential causes of the issue.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before attempting to fix 100% disk usage, ensure you have the following:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your system.
  • •Administrator access to make system changes.
  • •Backup important data to avoid potential loss during troubleshooting.
  • •Access to the internet for downloading updates or tools.

Method 1: Disable Windows Search

Disabling Windows Search can alleviate disk usage caused by indexing services.
  • •Step 1: Press `Windows + R` to open the Run dialog.
  • •Step 2: Type `services.msc` and press `Enter`.
  • •Step 3: In the Services window, scroll down to find 'Windows Search'.
  • •Step 4: Right-click on 'Windows Search' and select 'Properties'.
  • •Step 5: In the Startup type dropdown, select 'Disabled' and click 'Stop'.
  • •Step 6: Click 'OK' to apply changes.
  • •Step 7: Restart your computer and check disk usage.
  • •Step 8: If the issue persists, consider re-enabling Windows Search.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 specific steps may include additional settings.
  • •Open Settings by pressing `Windows + I`.
  • •Navigate to `Privacy & security > Searching Windows`.
  • •Toggle off the option for 'Enhanced' mode.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow similar steps but may find options in different locations.
  • •Open Control Panel and select 'Indexing Options'.
  • •Click 'Modify' and uncheck locations that are not needed.

Method 2: Update Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can lead to high disk usage. Updating them may resolve the issue.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the Start button and select 'Device Manager'.
  • •Step 2: Expand the 'Disk drives' section.
  • •Step 3: Right-click on your disk drive and select 'Update driver'.
  • •Step 4: Choose 'Search automatically for updated driver software'.
  • •Step 5: Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
  • •Step 6: Restart your computer to apply changes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems during the process, consider the following:
  • •Error: 'Windows Search service cannot be started' - Solution: Ensure you have administrative privileges and that the service is not disabled in Group Policy.
  • •Issue: Disk usage remains high after disabling Windows Search - Fix: Check for other background processes using Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
  • •Problem: Unable to update drivers - Workaround: Manually download drivers from the manufacturer's website.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, consider these additional tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: `Ctrl + Shift + Esc` - Opens Task Manager directly.
  • •Command line: `chkdsk /f` - Checks for disk errors and fixes them.
  • •Hidden feature: Storage Sense - Automatically frees up space by deleting unnecessary files.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regular maintenance and monitoring can prevent disk usage issues from becoming critical.