How to fix high CPU usage on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for high CPU usage on Windows.

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

Quick Answer

To fix high CPU usage on Windows, you can use methods such as terminating resource-heavy processes, adjusting startup programs, and checking for malware. These steps help identify and mitigate the causes of high CPU usage effectively.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin troubleshooting high CPU usage on Windows, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Windows PC running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
  • •Administrator access to make system changes.
  • •Basic knowledge of navigating Windows settings and Task Manager.
  • •Backup important data to avoid potential data loss during troubleshooting.

Method 1: Terminating Resource-Heavy Processes

This method is useful when specific applications are consuming excessive CPU resources.
  • •Step 1: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  • •Step 2: Click on the 'Processes' tab to view running applications and their CPU usage.
  • •Step 3: Identify any application with high CPU usage (e.g., above 80%). Right-click on it and select 'End Task'.
  • •Step 4: Verify the CPU usage has decreased by observing the CPU percentage in Task Manager.

For Windows 11

In Windows 11, the Task Manager interface is slightly updated.
  • •Step 1: Right-click on the Start button and select 'Task Manager'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'More details' if the Task Manager opens in compact mode.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to end high CPU processes.

For Windows 10

The steps are similar to Windows 11 but with a slightly different interface.
  • •Step 1: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select 'Task Manager'.
  • •Step 2: Click on the 'Processes' tab to see the CPU usage.
  • •Step 3: Right-click on the high CPU process and select 'End Task'.

Method 2: Adjusting Startup Programs

Disabling unnecessary startup programs can help reduce CPU usage at boot.
  • •Step 1: Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
  • •Step 2: Navigate to the 'Startup' tab.
  • •Step 3: Review the list of programs. Right-click on any unnecessary programs and select 'Disable'.
  • •Step 4: Restart your computer to see if CPU usage improves.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the above methods do not resolve high CPU usage, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Task Manager not responding' - Solution: Restart your PC and try again.
  • •Issue: High CPU usage persists after ending tasks - Fix: Run a full antivirus scan to check for malware.
  • •Problem: CPU usage spikes after Windows updates - Workaround: Roll back the update via Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history > Uninstall updates.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to optimize CPU performance:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Win + R - Opens the Run dialog for quick access to commands.
  • •Command line: 'wmic cpu get loadpercentage' - Displays current CPU load percentage.
  • •Hidden feature: Resource Monitor - Access via Task Manager > Performance tab > Open Resource Monitor for detailed resource usage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regular maintenance and monitoring can prevent high CPU usage issues from arising.