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How to Fix Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry High CPU Usage on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry is a Windows process that collects system and app data to help improve the user experience. Sometimes, this process can use a lot of CPU, causing your computer to slow down. If you notice high CPU usage linked to Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry on Windows 11, it can be frustrating.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to reduce or fix this high CPU usage issue. Each step is explained clearly, even if you’re new to Windows troubleshooting.

By following these instructions, you can improve your PC’s performance and reduce unnecessary resource consumption. Let’s get started.

Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand why this process might be using so much CPU and how to safely manage it.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check Your Windows Version: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates. Sometimes updates fix bugs causing high CPU usage.
  • Ensure You Have Administrator Rights: Some steps require admin permissions. Make sure you are logged in as an administrator or have the credentials ready.
  • Backup Important Data: While these steps are safe, it’s always good to back up important files before making system changes.
  • Close Unnecessary Applications: Before troubleshooting, close other apps to get an accurate reading of CPU usage.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches that cause high CPU usage. Restart your PC and check if the Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry process still consumes excessive resources.

Why this helps: Restarting resets system processes and clears temporary files that may cause issues.

Step 2: Disable Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry via Group Policy Editor

This method stops the telemetry process from collecting and sending data, reducing CPU usage.

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Data Collection and Preview Builds.
  3. Double-click on Allow Telemetry in the right pane.
  4. Select Disabled and click Apply, then OK.
  5. Restart your computer to apply changes.

Important: Group Policy Editor is only available on Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions.

Step 3: Disable Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry via Registry Editor

If you don’t have access to Group Policy Editor, you can use the Registry Editor to disable telemetry.

  1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindowsDataCollection
  3. If the DataCollection folder doesn’t exist, right-click on Windows, select New > Key, and name it DataCollection.
  4. Right-click the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, name it AllowTelemetry.
  5. Double-click AllowTelemetry, set the value to 0 and click OK.
  6. Close Registry Editor and restart your PC.

Be cautious: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause system issues. Always back up the registry before making changes.

Step 4: Disable the Connected User Experiences and Telemetry Service

Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry runs as part of this service. Disabling it can reduce CPU usage.

  1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Scroll down and find Connected User Experiences and Telemetry.
  3. Right-click it and select Properties.
  4. Under the Startup type dropdown, select Disabled.
  5. Click Stop if the service is running, then click Apply and OK.
  6. Restart your computer.

Note: Disabling this service may reduce some Windows diagnostic features but can help with performance.

Step 5: Clear the Diagnostic Data Folder

Sometimes, old telemetry data accumulates and causes high CPU usage. Clearing this folder can help.

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to: C:ProgramDataMicrosoftDiagnosis.
  2. If you cannot see the ProgramData folder, enable Hidden items in the View tab.
  3. Select all files and folders inside the Diagnosis folder and delete them.
  4. Restart your PC after deleting.

Alternative Method: Use Task Scheduler to Disable Telemetry Tasks

Telemetry tasks run scheduled checks that can cause CPU spikes. Disabling these tasks can help without completely turning off telemetry.

  1. Press Win + R, type taskschd.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Application Experience.
  3. Right-click on Microsoft Compatibility Appraiser and select Disable.
  4. Then go to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Autochk and disable any tasks related to telemetry.
  5. Restart your computer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry?

It is a Windows process that collects system and app data to help Microsoft improve Windows features and compatibility.

Is it safe to disable Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry?

Yes, disabling it will not harm your system. However, it may affect some diagnostic and feedback features used by Microsoft to improve Windows.

Will disabling telemetry affect Windows updates?

No, Windows updates will continue normally, but some data about system performance and problems will no longer be sent to Microsoft.

Why does Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry use high CPU?

It can happen when the process is collecting or uploading large amounts of data, or due to bugs or corrupted files.

Can a virus cause high CPU usage in telemetry?

Usually, no. Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry is a legitimate Windows process. However, if you suspect malware, run a full system scan with Windows Defender or another trusted antivirus.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the issue persists, consider the following:

  • Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow to repair corrupted system files.
  • Perform a Clean Boot: This helps identify if a third-party application conflicts with telemetry.
  • Reset or Reinstall Windows 11: As a last resort, resetting Windows can fix deep system issues.
  • Visit Official Microsoft Support: Microsoft Support offers detailed help and community forums.

Conclusion

High CPU usage from Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry on Windows 11 can slow down your computer, but it is usually easy to fix. Starting from simple restarts to disabling telemetry services or tasks, these methods help reduce CPU load.

Disabling telemetry can improve performance without major system impact, but always balance privacy, diagnostics, and functionality. If problems continue, advanced troubleshooting or professional support may be necessary.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can regain control over your system resources and enjoy a smoother Windows 11 experience.

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