If your computer is running slower than usual, one of the most common culprits is high CPU usage. This can happen when an application or process uses more of your computer’s processing power than it should. Fortunately, Windows 11 makes it easy to identify which application is causing the problem. Here’s a simple guide for novice computer users to find and address high CPU usage.
Open the Task Manager
The first step is to open the Task Manager. This tool allows you to see what applications and processes are currently running on your computer and how much of your CPU, memory, disk, and network resources they are using.
To open the Task Manager, right-click on the Start button (the Windows icon at the bottom left of your screen) and select “Task Manager” from the context menu. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open the Task Manager directly.
Navigate to the Processes Tab
Once the Task Manager is open, you will see several tabs at the top of the window. Click on the “Processes” tab to view a list of all running applications and background processes.
Sort by CPU Usage
In the Processes tab, you will see columns for CPU, Memory, Disk, and other resources. To identify which application is using the most CPU, click on the “CPU” column header. This will sort the list by CPU usage, with the highest usage at the top.
Identify the Culprit
Look at the top of the sorted list to see which application or process is using the most CPU. Common culprits include web browsers with many open tabs, heavy applications like video editors or games, and certain background processes. If you see an application you recognize using a lot of CPU, you may want to close it to see if your computer’s performance improves.
End the High CPU Usage Process
If you identify an application or process that is causing high CPU usage and you do not need it to be running, you can end it. To do this, click on the application or process to select it, then click the “End Task” button at the bottom right of the Task Manager window. Be cautious when ending processes, as some are critical to the system’s operation.
Investigate Further
Sometimes, the high CPU usage issue might be caused by a background process that is not immediately recognizable. In such cases, you may need to investigate further. You can search online for the process name to understand its function and whether it can be safely ended. Additionally, updating your software, scanning for malware, and checking for Windows updates can help resolve underlying issues causing high CPU usage.
Finding out which application is causing high CPU usage on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can help improve your computer’s performance. By using the Task Manager to monitor and manage CPU usage, you can identify and address the applications and processes that are slowing down your system. With a little practice, you’ll be able to keep your computer running smoothly and efficiently.