If you have noticed your Windows 10 computer slowing down and discovered that the Photo Background Task Host process is using a lot of CPU, you are not alone. This issue can make your system sluggish and affect overall performance. Thankfully, there are simple ways to fix this problem without needing advanced technical skills.
The Photo Background Task Host is part of the Windows Photos app, responsible for background tasks like syncing and processing images. Sometimes, it can get stuck or use more resources than necessary.
This guide will walk you through easy and effective steps to reduce high CPU usage caused by this process. Each step is explained clearly to help you follow along without confusion.
By the end, you should notice improved system performance and less CPU strain from the Photos app.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 10 is up to date. Updates often fix bugs that cause high CPU usage.
- Close the Photos app completely before starting any troubleshooting.
- Save your work, as some steps might require restarting your computer.
- Check your CPU usage in Task Manager to confirm the issue is with the Photo Background Task Host.
Step 1: Restart the Photos App
Sometimes, the simplest fix is to restart the app causing the problem. Closing and reopening the Photos app can reset its background tasks.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Look for Photo Background Task Host or Photos under the Processes tab.
- Select it and click End Task at the bottom right.
- Close Task Manager and open the Photos app again from the Start menu.
This step helps clear any temporary glitches and can immediately reduce CPU usage.
Step 2: Disable Background Apps for Photos
Windows allows apps to run in the background to update or sync data. Turning off background activity for the Photos app can lower CPU usage.
- Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
- Go to Privacy and then click Background apps on the left menu.
- Scroll down to find Photos in the list.
- Toggle the switch off to prevent it from running in the background.
Disabling background activity stops automatic tasks and can reduce CPU load caused by the app.
Step 3: Reset the Photos App
If the problem continues, resetting the Photos app will clear its cache and settings. This often solves issues related to corrupted files.
- Open Settings and go to Apps.
- Click Apps & features on the left panel.
- Scroll to find the Photos app and click it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click the Reset button.
- Confirm by clicking Reset again when prompted.
Resetting the app forces Windows to create new app data, often fixing high CPU issues caused by corrupted cache.
Step 4: Repair the Photos App
If you want to try a less drastic option before resetting, you can repair the app. This process attempts to fix the app without deleting your data.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features again.
- Find Photos and click Advanced options.
- Click the Repair button.
- Wait for the process to finish and then check if CPU usage improves.
Repairing can fix minor issues and is worth trying before resetting.
Step 5: Reinstall the Photos App
If resetting or repairing doesn’t help, reinstalling the app is a more advanced but effective step.
- Open PowerShell as administrator: type PowerShell in Start, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage *photos* | Remove-AppxPackageThis command uninstalls the Photos app.
- After uninstalling, reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store by searching for Microsoft Photos and clicking Install.
This method ensures a clean installation, which can fix any deep app issues causing high CPU usage.
Alternative: Use a Different Photo Viewer
If the Photos app continues to cause trouble, you might consider using another photo viewer. Third-party apps like IrfanView or FastStone Image Viewer are lightweight and less likely to use high CPU.
Switching can be a practical alternative if you want a quick and permanent solution without troubleshooting the Photos app.
FAQs
Why does Photo Background Task Host use so much CPU?
This process handles image processing tasks for the Photos app. High CPU usage can happen due to app glitches, corrupted cache, or running intensive background tasks.
Is it safe to disable the Photos app background activity?
Yes, disabling background activity only stops the app from running in the background. You can still open and use the app normally.
Will resetting the Photos app delete my pictures?
No, resetting only clears the app’s cache and settings. Your personal photos stored on your computer remain safe.
Can I uninstall the Photos app completely?
Yes, but it requires using PowerShell to remove it. You can always reinstall it later from the Microsoft Store.
Does updating Windows help with this issue?
Often, yes. Microsoft releases updates to fix bugs that can cause high CPU usage, so keeping Windows updated is important.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all the steps above and the Photo Background Task Host still uses excessive CPU, consider these final options:
- Run the Windows Troubleshooter for apps: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot and select Windows Store Apps.
- Create a new user account and check if the issue persists there. This can help identify if the problem is user-specific.
- Perform a system file check by running
sfc /scannowin Command Prompt as administrator to fix corrupted system files. - Contact Microsoft Support or visit the official Microsoft forums for further assistance.
Conclusion
High CPU usage by the Photo Background Task Host on Windows 10 is a common annoyance but can usually be fixed with simple steps. Restarting the app, disabling background activity, repairing, resetting, or reinstalling the Photos app are effective solutions.
Remember to keep your system updated and consider alternative photo viewers if problems persist. Following this step-by-step guide will help you regain smooth PC performance quickly and safely.