Windows Is Using 100% CPU

Short periods of high CPU usage are normal during gaming, installations, updates, application launches, or other demanding workloads.

Constant 100% CPU usage while doing very little can indicate a problem.

1. Open Task Manager

Press:

Ctrl + Shift + Esc

Select Processes and click the CPU column to sort applications by usage.

Identify which process is consuming the most CPU.

2. Make Sure the Usage Is Actually Abnormal

High CPU usage may temporarily occur during:

  • Windows Update

  • Antivirus scans

  • Game installation

  • Shader compilation

  • File compression

  • Application updates

Allow legitimate background work to finish before troubleshooting further.

3. Close Unnecessary Applications

Close applications you do not need and check whether CPU usage decreases.

Avoid force-closing Windows system processes unless you know what they do.

4. Check Startup Applications

Open:

Task Manager → Startup apps

Disable unnecessary programs that automatically launch with Windows.

5. Restart Windows

A runaway application or service can sometimes be resolved with a normal restart.

6. Scan for Malware

If an unfamiliar process is consuming significant CPU resources, run a Windows Security scan.

7. Check Temperatures

High CPU temperatures can reduce clock speeds and make the system feel slower even when usage is high.

8. Repair Windows Files

If a Windows process continuously uses excessive CPU without an obvious reason, run DISM and SFC.

Need Help?

When contacting EXM Support, include a screenshot of Task Manager sorted by CPU usage so the team can see which process is responsible.