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Experiencing high CPU usage caused by “System Interrupts” on Windows 11 can slow down your computer significantly. This issue often confuses users because “System Interrupts” is a built-in Windows process that manages hardware interrupts. When it uses too much CPU, it usually indicates a problem with your hardware or drivers.

Fixing high CPU usage related to System Interrupts involves a series of straightforward steps. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow this guide, as each step is explained clearly and simply.

By following this step-by-step approach, you can identify and resolve the root cause of the issue efficiently.

Let’s begin by understanding some quick checks before diving into detailed troubleshooting.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

• Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple reboot can clear temporary glitches causing high CPU usage.
• Check for Windows Updates: Ensure your system is up to date, as Microsoft regularly releases fixes for hardware-related issues.
• Close unnecessary applications: Running multiple apps can increase CPU load, so try to minimize them when troubleshooting.
• Backup important data: While these steps are safe, it’s always good to have your data backed up before proceeding.

Step 1: Identify the Problem Using Task Manager

First, confirm that System Interrupts is indeed causing high CPU usage. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

• Click on the Processes tab.
• Look for System Interrupts in the list.
• If it consistently uses more than 10-15% CPU, this confirms the problem.

This step is important because sometimes other processes may be the cause, and fixing the wrong issue won’t help.

Step 2: Disconnect External Devices

Hardware devices can cause interrupts that lead to high CPU usage. To test this:

• Unplug all external devices like USB drives, printers, webcams, and external hard drives.
• Observe CPU usage in Task Manager again.

If CPU usage drops significantly, reconnect devices one by one to identify the problematic hardware. This helps pinpoint the exact device causing interrupts.

Step 3: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or faulty drivers often cause hardware interrupts. Updating your drivers can fix this.

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand categories like Network adapters, Sound, video and game controllers, and Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Right-click each device and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers and follow prompts.

Updating drivers ensures compatibility and reduces hardware conflicts that cause interrupts.

Step 4: Disable and Enable Devices

If updating drivers doesn’t help, try disabling devices temporarily to see if the CPU usage changes.

1. In Device Manager, right-click a device you suspect (often USB or network devices).
2. Select Disable device.
3. Check CPU usage again.
4. If usage drops, this device might be causing interrupts. You can then enable it again and update or replace the driver.

This process helps isolate the faulty device by trial and error.

Step 5: Check for BIOS and Firmware Updates

Sometimes, motherboard BIOS or firmware updates are necessary to fix hardware interrupt issues.

• Visit your PC or motherboard manufacturer’s official website.
• Find the support or downloads section.
• Look up your specific model and check if a BIOS or firmware update is available.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to update.

Updating BIOS can improve hardware compatibility and resolve underlying interrupt problems.

Step 6: Disable Fast Startup

Windows 11’s Fast Startup feature can occasionally cause hardware and driver conflicts.

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter to open Control Panel.
2. Navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
3. Click Choose what the power buttons do on the left panel.
4. Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.
5. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
6. Click Save changes and restart your computer.

Disabling Fast Startup can solve interrupt issues caused by incomplete hardware initialization.

Step 7: Run the Windows Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix hardware problems automatically.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Find and run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

This tool scans for common hardware issues and attempts automatic fixes.

Alternative Method: Use Device Manager to Roll Back Drivers

If a recent driver update caused the problem, rolling back to the previous version can help.

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Right-click the device causing high interrupts.
3. Select Properties > Driver tab.
4. Click Roll Back Driver if available.
5. Restart your PC and check CPU usage again.

This option is useful if the issue started after a driver update.

FAQs

What are System Interrupts in Windows 11?

System Interrupts is a system process that handles hardware interrupts, which are signals sent by hardware devices to get the CPU’s attention.

Is it normal for System Interrupts to use CPU?

Yes, it usually uses a very small percentage of CPU (typically under 5%). High usage indicates hardware or driver issues.

Can malware cause high System Interrupts CPU usage?

While rare, some malware can mimic system processes. Running a full antivirus scan is recommended to rule this out.

Will updating Windows fix this issue?

Sometimes, yes. Microsoft releases updates that improve hardware compatibility and fix bugs related to interrupts.

Should I uninstall recent software if the issue started recently?

Yes, uninstalling recent software or drivers can help if they conflict with hardware components.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above steps reduce high CPU usage from System Interrupts, consider the following options:

• Contact official support: Visit the Microsoft Support website for advanced help.
• Reset Windows: As a last resort, resetting Windows 11 can fix deep system issues, but back up your data first.
• Check hardware health: Faulty hardware like failing hard drives, USB controllers, or motherboards might require professional diagnosis or replacement.

Conclusion

High CPU usage by System Interrupts in Windows 11 usually points to hardware or driver conflicts. By following this step-by-step guide—from checking devices and updating drivers to running troubleshooters—you can effectively identify and resolve the issue.

Taking these actions not only improves your system’s performance but also ensures your hardware works smoothly with Windows 11. Remember to perform regular updates and backups to keep your PC healthy.