Experiencing high CPU usage during a Windows 11 update can slow down your computer and cause frustration. This issue often happens when the system works hard to download and install updates. Fortunately, there are easy ways to troubleshoot and fix this problem.
In this guide, we will walk you through simple steps to reduce CPU usage during updates. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along.
By following these instructions, you can help your computer run smoother while updating. Let’s get started!
Remember, a little patience goes a long way during updates, but if the CPU usage stays high for a very long time, these tips will help.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 11 is connected to a stable internet connection to avoid update interruptions.
- Close any unnecessary programs before starting the update to free up CPU resources.
- Check that your PC has enough free disk space (at least 10 GB) because low space can cause update issues.
- Have your device plugged into power if it’s a laptop to prevent shutdowns during the update process.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix high CPU usage. Restarting clears temporary files and stops any processes that might be stuck.
- Click the Start button (Windows icon) on the bottom-left corner.
- Select the Power icon.
- Choose Restart from the options.
- After your PC restarts, check if the CPU usage during the update has improved.
This step is important because many system glitches resolve with a reboot, making updates run smoother.
Step 2: Pause and Resume Windows Update
Pausing and then resuming updates can reset the update process and reduce CPU load.
- Press Windows + I keys together to open Settings.
- Click on Windows Update from the left menu.
- Click Pause updates for 7 days.
- Wait for a minute, then click Resume updates.
- Check Task Manager to see if CPU usage drops.
This works because it temporarily stops update tasks, allowing stalled processes to reset.
Step 3: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows has a built-in tool that automatically detects and fixes common update problems.
- Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Update and click Run.
- Wait for the troubleshooter to scan and fix any detected issues.
- Restart your computer after the process completes.
This step is helpful because the troubleshooter can automatically resolve errors causing high CPU usage.
Step 4: Clear the Windows Update Cache
Corrupted update files can cause high CPU usage. Clearing the cache forces Windows to download fresh files.
- Press Windows + S, type
cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator. - In the command window, type:
net stop wuauserv
Press Enter. - Then type:
net stop bits
Press Enter. - Next, open File Explorer (Windows + E), and navigate to:
C:WindowsSoftwareDistributionDownload - Select all files and folders here and delete them.
- Go back to the Command Prompt and type:
net start wuauserv
Press Enter. - Then type:
net start bits
Press Enter. - Close Command Prompt and restart your PC.
Clearing the cache removes problematic update files that might be causing the CPU to work too hard.
Step 5: Disable Startup Programs Temporarily
Some programs that start automatically can interfere with updates and increase CPU usage.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Startup tab.
- Right-click on any unnecessary apps and choose Disable.
- Restart your PC and try updating again.
This step frees up CPU resources by reducing background tasks during updates.
Step 6: Check for Malware
Malware can cause high CPU usage, especially during system updates.
- Open Windows Security by searching for it in the Start menu.
- Click Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick scan or Full scan for a thorough check.
- If threats are found, follow prompts to remove them.
- Restart your PC after cleaning.
Malware removal is essential because infections can disrupt update processes and use excessive CPU power.
Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping you identify if third-party software causes high CPU usage.
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
- Check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all.
- Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
- Restart your PC and try updating again.
If the CPU usage improves, some third-party app is causing the problem. You can enable services one-by-one to find the culprit.
Step 8: Update Device Drivers
Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause high CPU loads during updates.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand categories such as Display adapters, Network adapters, and Processors.
- Right-click on each device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- Follow any prompts to install updates.
- Restart your computer after updating drivers.
Keeping drivers updated helps Windows manage hardware efficiently during updates.
Step 9: Use Advanced Options – Reset Windows Update Components
If previous steps didn’t help, resetting Windows Update components can fix deeper issues.
To do this:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 4).
- Type and run the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
Restart your PC and try updating again.
This process renames update folders forcing Windows to create new ones, fixing corruption issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my CPU usage so high during a Windows Update?
Windows Update can use a lot of CPU as it downloads, installs, and configures files. Sometimes, stuck or corrupted processes make CPU usage stay high longer than normal.
Is it safe to stop or pause a Windows update?
Pausing updates temporarily is safe and can help reset the process. However, avoid turning off your PC during an update as it may cause system problems.
How long should an update take?
Update times vary depending on your system and the size of the update. Small updates may take a few minutes, while large ones might take 30 minutes or more.
Can third-party antivirus cause high CPU during updates?
Yes, some antivirus software can interfere with Windows Update, causing high CPU usage. Temporarily disabling or uninstalling it may help.
What if my update keeps failing?
Try running the Windows Update troubleshooter and resetting update components. If problems persist, consider seeking professional support.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps and still experience high CPU usage during Windows 11 updates, here are some final options:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft’s official support site for help.
- Use System Restore: Roll back your PC to a previous state where updates were working fine.
- Reset or Reinstall Windows 11: As a last resort, you can reset your PC or perform a clean installation to fix persistent issues.
Before doing these, make sure to back up all important files to avoid data loss.
Conclusion
High CPU usage during Windows 11 updates is common but can be managed with simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with a restart and pausing updates, then moving to clearing caches and running tools, usually solves the problem.
Always keep your system drivers updated and check for malware regularly to maintain optimal performance. If all else fails, advanced reset options and professional support are available.
Following this guide will help you navigate Windows 11 updates more smoothly and keep your PC running efficiently.