How to Fix High CPU Usage

How to Fix High CPU Usage

Let the process finish if possible (it often resolves in 30-60 minutes), but if it's persistent, try these steps in order. Restart your PC after each to test. Backup important data first, and avoid disabling updates long-term to stay secure.

1. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

This detects and fixes common update-related issues automatically.

• Go to Settings (Win + I) > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
• Select Windows Update > Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow prompts and restart.

2. Check for and Install Updates Manually

Ensure no updates are stuck in queue.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.
• Install any available updates, then restart. Pause updates temporarily via Advanced options if needed.

3. Clear the Windows Update Cache

Corrupted cache files often cause endless scanning.

• Stop the Windows Update service: Press Win + R, type services.msc, find Windows Update, right-click > Stop.
• Delete contents of C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution (don't delete the folder itself—use Shift + Delete for files).
• Restart the Windows Update service (right-click > Start).
• Run Windows Update again.

4. Set Windows Update to Manual Trigger

Prevents automatic scans during peak hours.

• In services.msc (from Step 3), find Windows Update, right-click > Properties > Set Startup type to Manual > Apply > OK.
• Also set Windows Modules Installer service to Manual the same way.
• In Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Pause updates or set active hours.

5. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Scans

Repairs corrupted system files.

• Open Command Prompt as admin (search "cmd" > Run as administrator).
• Run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth (wait 10-20 mins).
• Then: sfc /scannow (restart after).

6. Perform a Clean Boot

Identifies conflicting software.

• Search for msconfig > Services tab > Check Hide all Microsoft services > Disable all.
• Startup tab > Open Task Manager > Disable all startup items.
• Restart and test CPU usage. Re-enable items gradually to find culprits (e.g., third-party antivirus).

7. Additional Checks

• Update drivers: Use Device Manager (right-click Start) to scan for hardware changes, or download from manufacturer sites.
• Scan for malware: Run Windows Security full scan or a tool like Malwarebytes.
• Limit process priority: In Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) > Details tab > Right-click TiWorker.exe > Set priority > Below normal (temporary fix).
• If on Server 2016+: Schedule updates outside business hours via Group Policy.

If these don't resolve it, consider a Windows Reset (Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC, keep files) or check Event Viewer (search for it > Windows Logs > System) for error codes like 0x80070002. For hardware issues (e.g., failing HDD), run chkdsk C: /f /r. If problems persist,