If your PC is running slow, overheating, or the fan is constantly loud, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with high CPU usage in Windows 11.

This issue can be caused by background processes, Windows updates, malware, or misconfigured settings.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to fix Windows 11 high CPU usage step-by-step.

How to Check CPU Usage in Windows 11

Before fixing the issue, check what’s causing it.

Steps

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
2. Open Task Manager
3. Go to the Processes tab
4. Click CPU to sort usage

Look for apps or processes using unusually high CPU.

Fix 1: Restart Your PC

Sometimes a simple restart clears temporary issues.

Restart your PC and check CPU usage again.

Fix 2: Disable Startup Programs

Too many startup apps can overload your CPU.

Steps

1. Disable unnecessary apps
2. Open Task Manager
3. Go to Startup tab

Fix 3: End High CPU Processes

Steps

1. Open Task Manager
2. Find the process using high CPU
3. Right-click → End Task

Don’t end system-critical processes.

Fix 4: Update Windows

Updates often fix performance issues.

Steps

1. Go to Settings → Windows Update
2. Click Check for updates
3. Install updates

Fix 5: Scan for Malware

Malware can cause constant CPU spikes.

Steps

1. Open Windows Security
2. Go to Virus & Threat Protection
3. Run a Full Scan

Fix 6: Disable Background Apps

Background apps consume CPU resources.

Steps

1. Go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps
2. Select an app → Advanced options
3. Set background permissions to Never

Fix 7: Adjust Power Settings

Power settings can affect CPU usage.

Steps

1. Go to Settings → System → Power & battery
2. Set Power mode → Balanced or Best performance

Fix 8: Disable Windows Search Indexing

Search indexing can cause CPU spikes.

Steps

1. Press Windows + R → type: services.msc
2. Find Windows Search
3. Right-click → Stop
4. Set Startup type to Disabled

Fix 9: Update Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause performance issues.

Steps

1. Open Device Manager
2. Update:
   • CPU drivers
   • GPU drivers
   • Chipset drivers

Fix 10: Reset Windows 11 (Last Resort)

If nothing works, reset your system.

Steps

1. Go to Settings → System → Recovery
2. Click Reset this PC

Common Causes of High CPU Usage

• Too many background apps
• Windows updates running
• Malware or viruses
• Outdated drivers
• Faulty software

Fixing Windows 11 high CPU usage usually involves disabling unnecessary apps, updating your system, and optimizing settings.

By following these steps, you can significantly improve performance and reduce CPU load.

If your system is newly installed, make sure to activate it using a genuine Windows 11 Pro product key from our store for full functionality.