What Causes High CPU Usage and How to Fix It

High CPU usage is a common issue that can slow down your PC, causing apps to lag or freeze. It usually happens when too many background processes are running or when a specific program is consuming excessive resources.

Steps to Fix It:

1. Identify the Culprit:

Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and check the Processes tab to see which application is using the most CPU.

2. End Unnecessary Tasks:

Select the resource-heavy process and click End Task to stop it. Be cautious not to close critical system processes.

3. Disable Startup Programs:

Go to Task Manager > Startup and disable unnecessary programs to prevent them from running at boot.

4. Update Drivers and Software:

Outdated drivers or buggy software can cause CPU spikes. Update drivers via Device Manager and software from their respective sources.

5. Scan for Malware:

Use Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus to ensure no malicious programs are running in the background.

6. Adjust Power Settings:

Switch to High Performance mode in Control Panel > Power Options for better system resource allocation.

7. Consider Hardware Upgrades:

If high CPU usage persists despite all efforts, upgrading to a faster CPU or adding more RAM might be necessary.

Conclusion:

By addressing these steps, you can resolve most high CPU usage issues and significantly improve your PC’s performance. Regular maintenance ensures long-term stability.