Antimalware Service Executable is an important Windows process that helps protect your PC from malware. Sometimes, it can use too much CPU, which slows down your computer. This guide will help you fix high CPU usage by this process on Windows 11.
We will walk through simple steps first, then more advanced options if needed. Each step is explained clearly so you can follow along easily. Let’s get started!
Understanding why this happens can help you prevent future issues and keep your PC running smoothly. High CPU usage is often temporary but can become a problem if it lasts too long.
By the end of this article, you will know how to reduce CPU usage and improve your computer’s performance without compromising security.
Quick Note: Things to Check Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated. Sometimes updates fix known bugs.
- Check your PC’s antivirus status. Windows Defender (which runs Antimalware Service Executable) should be enabled and up to date.
- Close other heavy applications running in the background to see if they affect CPU usage.
- Restart your computer if you haven’t done so recently. Sometimes a simple reboot solves temporary issues.
Step 1: Temporarily Disable Real-Time Protection
Windows Defender’s real-time protection can cause high CPU usage while scanning files. Disabling it temporarily helps identify if it’s the cause.
- Click the Start button and open Settings.
- Go to Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Under Virus & threat protection settings, click on Manage settings.
- Toggle off Real-time protection. You may need to confirm this action.
- Check your CPU usage now. If it drops, real-time protection is causing the high CPU usage.
Note: Keep real-time protection disabled only temporarily for testing. Turn it back on to keep your PC protected.
Step 2: Schedule Windows Defender Scans at a Convenient Time
Windows Defender scans can run automatically and slow down your PC if they happen during active use. Scheduling scans for off-hours helps reduce interruptions.
- Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
- Type
taskschd.mscand press Enter to open Task Scheduler. - In the left pane, navigate to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Windows Defender.
- Right-click on Windows Defender Scheduled Scan and select Properties.
- Go to the Triggers tab and click New.
- Set a new time when you are less likely to use your PC (e.g., late at night).
- Click OK to save changes.
This change helps Windows Defender run scans without interfering with your work.
Step 3: Exclude Certain Files or Folders from Scans
If Antimalware Service Executable spends too much time scanning large files or folders, excluding them reduces CPU usage. Only exclude files if you trust them and know they are safe.
- Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Click Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
- Scroll down and click Add or remove exclusions.
- Click Add an exclusion and choose a file, folder, file type, or process to exclude.
- Select the items you want to exclude from scans.
Be cautious with exclusions, as skipping important files can reduce your protection.
Step 4: Check for Malware or Other Issues
Sometimes malware can disguise itself or cause the Antimalware Service to overwork. Running a full scan can help detect hidden threats.
- Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Click on Scan options.
- Select Full scan and click Scan now.
- Wait for the scan to complete and follow any instructions if threats are found.
Step 5: Disable Windows Defender Temporarily (Advanced)
If none of the above helps and you suspect Windows Defender is the cause, you can disable it temporarily. This is risky and should only be done if you have another antivirus installed.
- Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open Group Policy Editor. - Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
- Double-click on Turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
- Select Enabled to disable Defender.
- Click Apply and then OK.
- Restart your computer.
Warning: Only disable Defender if you have a trusted third-party antivirus. Otherwise, your PC will be vulnerable to threats.
FAQs
Why is Antimalware Service Executable using so much CPU?
It uses CPU when scanning files for malware or performing updates. Heavy CPU usage can occur during full scans or when scanning large files.
Can I permanently disable Antimalware Service Executable?
It is not recommended because it protects your PC. Disabling it can leave your PC vulnerable to malware.
Will excluding files from scans reduce my security?
Yes, excluding files or folders means they won’t be checked for threats, so only exclude trusted items.
Is high CPU usage by this process normal?
Yes, during scans or updates it is normal. But if it stays high all the time, it needs troubleshooting.
Can third-party antivirus software fix this issue?
Yes, some antivirus programs replace Windows Defender and can reduce CPU usage from this process.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all steps and still face high CPU usage, consider the following options:
- Use a reputable third-party antivirus software and disable Windows Defender.
- Run the System File Checker tool by opening Command Prompt as admin and typing
sfc /scannow. - Check for Windows updates again or perform a clean installation of Windows 11.
- Visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows Defender issues: Microsoft Support.
Conclusion
High CPU usage by Antimalware Service Executable can slow down your Windows 11 PC, but it is manageable. By following the steps above, you can identify the cause and reduce CPU load without compromising your security.
Start with simple fixes like scheduling scans and temporarily disabling real-time protection. If needed, try exclusions or advanced settings carefully. Always keep your system updated and protected.
With these tips, your PC should run smoothly while staying safe from threats.