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How to Fix High HDD Usage in Windows 10 Creators Update: Effective Solutions

High HDD usage can make your Windows 10 Creators Update system slow and unresponsive. It often causes delays when opening programs or files. This issue can be frustrating, but there are simple ways to fix it.

In this guide, we will cover easy and effective solutions to reduce high disk usage. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners follow along.

By understanding why your hard drive is working too hard, you can apply the right solution quickly. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into fixes.

These tips will help improve your computer’s speed and overall performance.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before applying any fixes, make sure you:

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot can clear temporary issues causing high disk activity.
  • Check for Windows updates: Ensure your system is up to date, as Microsoft often releases patches that fix bugs.
  • Close unnecessary programs: Running many apps at once can increase disk usage.
  • Back up important data: It’s always safe to keep a backup before making system changes.

Step 1: Identify the Cause Using Task Manager

Understanding which program or service is using the most disk resources is key. Here is how to check:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Click the Processes tab.
  3. Look at the Disk column to see which process is using the most hard drive.
  4. If a specific app consistently uses high disk resources, note its name for further action.

This helps you target the exact problem rather than guessing.

Step 2: Disable Windows Search Indexing

Windows Search indexing can cause high disk usage by constantly scanning files. Disabling it temporarily can help:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down and find Windows Search.
  4. Right-click it and select Properties.
  5. Under Startup type, select Disabled.
  6. Click Stop to stop the service immediately.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.

This prevents Windows from indexing files constantly, reducing disk load.

Step 3: Turn Off Superfetch (SysMain)

Superfetch (called SysMain in newer versions) preloads frequently used apps into memory. Sometimes, it causes excessive disk activity. To disable it:

  1. Open the Run dialog with Windows + R.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. Find SysMain in the list.
  4. Right-click and choose Properties.
  5. Set Startup type to Disabled.
  6. Click Stop if the service is running.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.

Disabling SysMain often lowers disk usage spikes, especially on older hard drives.

Step 4: Check for Malware and Viruses

Malicious software can cause high disk usage by running background processes. Scan your PC as follows:

  1. Open Windows Security by typing it in the Start menu.
  2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  3. Click Quick scan to check for threats.
  4. If threats are found, follow the prompts to remove them.

Alternatively, you can use trusted third-party antivirus software for a deeper scan.

Step 5: Disable Background Apps

Many apps run in the background and use disk resources unnecessarily. To disable them:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Click Privacy.
  3. Scroll down and select Background apps.
  4. Toggle off apps you don’t need running in the background.

This keeps your disk free from extra workload.

Step 6: Adjust Virtual Memory Settings

Virtual memory uses part of your hard drive as extra RAM. If set incorrectly, it can cause high disk usage. Here’s how to adjust it:

  1. Right-click This PC and select Properties.
  2. Click Advanced system settings on the left.
  3. Under the Advanced tab, click Settings in the Performance section.
  4. Go to the Advanced tab and click Change under Virtual memory.
  5. Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
  6. Select your system drive (usually C:), then choose Custom size.
  7. Set Initial size and Maximum size to the recommended values shown below.
  8. Click Set, then OK on all windows.
  9. Restart your computer to apply changes.

Proper virtual memory settings can reduce disk strain during heavy use.

Advanced Option: Disable MSI Mode for StorAHCI Driver

Some users experience high disk usage due to the StorAHCI driver. Disabling MSI mode helps:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers.
  3. Right-click Standard SATA AHCI Controller and select Properties.
  4. Go to the Details tab and select Device instance path from the dropdown.
  5. Note down the value starting with PCI.
  6. Open Registry Editor by typing regedit in Run dialog.
  7. Navigate to:
    8. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetEnumPCIDevice ParametersInterrupt ManagementMessageSignaledInterruptProperties
  8. Double-click MSISupported and change its value to 0.
  9. Restart your PC.

This disables MSI mode, which may reduce disk usage spikes caused by this driver.

FAQs

Why is my disk usage at 100% even when I’m not running programs?

Background processes like Windows Search, Superfetch, or malware scans may be using the disk. Checking Task Manager helps identify the culprit.

Can upgrading to an SSD fix high disk usage?

Yes. SSDs are much faster than traditional HDDs and handle disk activity better, often eliminating high usage problems.

Is it safe to disable Windows Search and Superfetch?

Yes, it is safe. However, disabling these may slow down file searches or app loading slightly. You can re-enable them anytime.

How often should I check for malware?

Perform regular scans at least once a week to keep your system secure and running smoothly.

Does disabling background apps affect notifications?

Yes, some apps may not send notifications if disabled. Choose which apps to disable carefully.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the steps and still face high HDD usage, consider the following:

  • Run the Windows Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters and run the Windows Store Apps or Performance troubleshooter.
  • Check for driver updates: Visit your PC manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.
  • Reset your PC: Use Settings > Update & Security > Recovery to reset Windows while keeping your files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for professional help.

Conclusion

High HDD usage in Windows 10 Creators Update can slow your PC but is usually fixable with simple steps. Starting with basic checks and moving to more advanced options helps identify and solve the problem efficiently.

Disabling services like Windows Search and Superfetch, scanning for malware, and adjusting settings can significantly reduce disk load. For stubborn issues, advanced solutions or professional support may be needed.

Regular maintenance and awareness of what programs use your disk will keep your system running smoothly over time.

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