If your computer is running slowly or freezing up, there’s a good chance that high CPU and memory usage in Windows 10 is to blame. This issue can be caused by various factors such as background processes, outdated drivers, malware infections, and more. The good news is that there are several easy solutions to this problem. In this article, we’ll show you how to fix high CPU memory usage in Windows 10.
1. Check Your Computer for Malware
Malware can cause a lot of problems on your computer, including high CPU and memory usage. To ensure that your device is not infected, you should run a full system scan. Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus that can scan your device for malware. To run a scan, follow these steps:
- Click on the Windows start button
- Select Settings
- Click on Update & Security
- Select Windows Security
- Click on Virus & threat protection
- Select Scan options
- Click on Full scan
- Click on Scan now
2. Disable Startup Programs
When you turn on your computer, programs and processes run automatically in the background, which can cause high CPU and memory usage. To fix this issue, you need to disable unnecessary startup programs. To do this, follow these steps:
- Click on the Windows start button
- Select Settings
- Click on Apps
- Select Startup
- Disable the programs you don’t need to run at startup
3. Close Unnecessary Programs and Processes
Running too many programs and processes at the same time can cause high CPU and memory usage. To fix this issue, you should close the programs and processes you don’t need. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys
- Select Processes
- Sort by CPU or Memory usage to find memory hogs
- Select the programs and processes you don’t need and click End Task.
4. Update Your Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause various issues, including high CPU and memory usage. To fix this, you should update your drivers. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open Device Manager by right-clicking on the Windows Start button and selecting Device Manager
- Find the device with the out-of-date driver
- Right-click on the device and select Update Driver
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process
5. Increase Virtual Memory
Virtual memory can help reduce high CPU and memory usage by moving some data from RAM to the hard drive. To increase virtual memory, follow these steps:
- Click on the Windows start button
- Select Settings
- Click on System
- Select About
- Select Advanced system settings from the right pane
- Select the Advanced tab
- Click on Settings under the Performance section
- Select Advanced Tab
- Select Change under Virtual Memory
- Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives
- Select Custom size and input the recommended size for your device or a size that is larger than that
- Select Set
- Select OK
Concluding Thoughts
High CPU memory usage in Windows 10 can be frustrating, but there are several ways to fix it. Following the steps in this article can help you reduce the CPU and memory usage, giving you a faster computer experience. In addition, always make sure to keep your device up-to-date with the latest updates, run regular scans for viruses, and remove any unnecessary files.
FAQs about Fixing High CPU Memory Usage in Windows 10
1. What is causing high CPU and memory usage?
There are various reasons why your system may be experiencing high CPU and memory usage, such as malware infections, running too many programs or processes at once, outdated drivers, problems with Windows updates, and more.
2. How to I view CPU and memory usage in Windows 10?
You can view CPU and memory usage in Windows 10 by opening Task Manager. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys, select Processes and sort by either CPU or Memory usage.
3. How often should I run a virus scan?
It’s recommended that you run a virus scan at least once a week, but running it more often can help ensure your device stays secure.
4. Can I completely disable Windows updates to reduce CPU and memory usage?
It’s not recommended to completely disable Windows updates as they are important for your device’s security and stability. However, you can delay updates or select specific times for when they get installed.
5. How can I tell if my drivers are up-to-date?
You can tell if your drivers are up-to-date by opening Device Manager and checking if there are any yellow exclamation marks next to any devices. If there are, right-click on the device and select Update Driver.
