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How to Fix sppsvc.exe High CPU Usage on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

If you notice your Windows 11 computer slowing down, the process sppsvc.exe might be using too much CPU. This process is related to Windows Software Protection, which ensures your copy of Windows is genuine. High CPU usage by sppsvc.exe can cause your system to lag or become unresponsive.

Fixing this issue doesn’t have to be complicated. This guide will walk you through simple steps to reduce the CPU usage of sppsvc.exe and restore your system’s performance.

Each step is explained in detail, so even if you’re not very tech-savvy, you can follow along easily. Let’s get started with some quick checks before moving into fixes.

By the end, you’ll understand why sppsvc.exe behaves this way and how to resolve it efficiently.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into troubleshooting, make sure of the following:

  • Run Windows Update: Sometimes, updating your system fixes bugs causing high CPU usage.
  • Check for Malware: Some malware disguises itself as sppsvc.exe. Run a full system scan with Windows Defender or another trusted antivirus.
  • Backup Important Files: While these steps are safe, it’s always wise to back up your data to avoid any accidental loss.

Step 1: Restart the Software Protection Service

One of the simplest ways to fix high CPU usage by sppsvc.exe is to restart its service. This clears any temporary issues that might cause the process to overwork.

  1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter. This opens the Services window.
  3. Scroll down and find Software Protection in the list.
  4. Right-click on it and select Restart. If the option is grayed out, click Start instead.
  5. Close the Services window and check if CPU usage has decreased by opening Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).

Restarting this service helps because it refreshes the process that manages Windows activation, often resolving any stuck tasks leading to high CPU use.

Step 2: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can cause sppsvc.exe to behave abnormally. Running an SFC scan can detect and repair these files.

  1. Click the Start button, type cmd, then right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This scan will take some time. It checks for corrupted or missing Windows files and repairs them automatically. Once it finishes, restart your computer to apply any fixes.

Running SFC is important because it ensures core Windows files related to activation and licensing are intact, which can reduce the workload of sppsvc.exe.

Step 3: Clear the Software Protection Cache

The Software Protection service maintains a cache that sometimes gets cluttered or corrupted, causing high CPU use. Clearing this cache can help.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (same as Step 2).
  2. Stop the Software Protection service by typing:
net stop sppsvc

Wait for confirmation that the service has stopped.

  1. Navigate to the cache folder by typing:
cd %windir%ServiceProfilesNetworkServiceAppDataRoamingMicrosoftSoftwareProtectionPlatform
  1. Delete the cache files by typing:
del tokens.dat

Note: This deletes the license cache but does not affect your system activation status.

  1. Restart the Software Protection service:
net start sppsvc

After this, check the CPU usage again in Task Manager.

Step 4: Perform a Clean Boot

Sometimes, third-party apps interfere with Windows services, causing high CPU usage. A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping identify conflicts.

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check the box Hide all Microsoft services.
  4. Click Disable all to turn off third-party services.
  5. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
  6. Disable all startup items by right-clicking each and selecting Disable.
  7. Close Task Manager and click OK in System Configuration.
  8. Restart your PC.

If CPU usage by sppsvc.exe is normal now, it means a third-party app or service was causing the problem. You can re-enable services one by one to find the culprit.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Troubleshooter

Windows includes built-in troubleshooters that can fix common issues automatically.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find and run the Windows Update troubleshooter.
  4. Follow on-screen instructions to detect and fix problems.

This method helps because sometimes update-related issues trigger the Software Protection service to work harder.

FAQs

What is sppsvc.exe and why does it use CPU?

sppsvc.exe is the Software Protection Platform Service. It validates your Windows license to prevent piracy. High CPU usage can happen if the service is stuck or corrupted.

Is it safe to stop or disable sppsvc.exe?

No, it is not recommended. Disabling this service can cause Windows activation problems and system instability.

Can malware cause high CPU usage for sppsvc.exe?

Yes, some malware disguises itself with similar names. Always run a full antivirus scan to rule out infection.

How long should I wait for sppsvc.exe CPU usage to go down?

It might take a few minutes after system start-up or updates. If it persists for hours, troubleshooting is needed.

Can third-party software affect sppsvc.exe?

Yes, certain apps or services can conflict with Windows licensing services, leading to high CPU use.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and sppsvc.exe still uses high CPU, consider the following options:

  • Run DISM Tool: This repairs Windows system image. Open Command Prompt as admin and run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support website for help related to Windows activation issues.
  • Reset or Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, resetting Windows 11 or performing a clean install can fix deep system issues.

Conclusion

High CPU usage by sppsvc.exe on Windows 11 can slow down your computer but is usually fixable with simple steps. Restarting the service, running system scans, clearing the cache, and performing a clean boot are effective solutions.

Always ensure your system is updated and free from malware before making advanced changes. These troubleshooting steps help keep Windows activation smooth and your PC running efficiently.

By following this guide, you can resolve sppsvc.exe high CPU usage without needing technical expertise, improving your overall Windows 11 experience.

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