Antimalware Service Executable High CPU Usage Fix

In this article, I will discuss how to fix the issue of Antimalware Service Executable causing high CPU usage on your computer.

Understanding High CPU Usage

If you are experiencing high CPU usage due to Antimalware Service Executable, there are a few steps you can take to fix the issue. One common reason for this problem is the Windows Defender scanning process running in the background. To address this, you can schedule Windows Defender scans to run at a more convenient time for you. This can help reduce the impact on your CPU performance during peak usage times.

Another potential cause of high CPU usage by Antimalware Service Executable is malware or viruses on your computer. Perform a full system scan using Windows Defender or a reliable antivirus program to check for any malicious software. If malware is detected, follow the recommended steps to remove it from your system.

Additionally, make sure your Windows Defender definitions are up to date to ensure it is effectively protecting your system from threats. Keeping your antivirus software updated is crucial in maintaining a secure and efficient system.

Adjusting Windows Defender Settings

To adjust Windows Defender settings and reduce Antimalware Service Executable high CPU usage, follow these steps:

1. Open Windows Security: Click on the Windows Security icon in the system tray or search for it in the Windows search bar.

2. Navigate to Settings: Click on the gear icon located at the bottom left corner of the Windows Security window.

3. Exclusion Settings: Scroll down and select “Virus & threat protection settings” then click on “Manage settings.” Under “Exclusions,” click on “Add or remove exclusions.”

4. Add Exclusions: Click on “Add an exclusion” and choose the type of exclusion you want to add (e.g., file, folder, file type, process).

5. Restart Windows Defender: To apply the changes, restart your computer and check if the Antimalware Service Executable CPU usage has decreased.

Adding Exclusions to Windows Defender

• Open Windows Defender by clicking on the Start menu and selecting Settings.
• Click on Update & Security, then Windows Security, and finally Virus & Threat Protection.
• Scroll down and click on Manage settings under Virus & Threat Protection settings.
• Scroll down again and click on Add or remove exclusions under Exclusions.
• Click on Add an exclusion, then choose Folder, File, File Type, or Process as needed.
• Locate the specific file, folder, or process you want to exclude from Windows Defender scans.
• Click on Select Folder, Open, or Add to add the exclusion to Windows Defender.

Updating Device Drivers

To update device drivers on your computer, follow these steps:

Step 1: Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard to open the context menu.

Step 2: Click on Device Manager in the menu that appears.

Step 3: Locate the device you want to update the driver for, right-click on it, and select Update driver.

Step 4: Choose to search automatically for updated driver software.

Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update process.

Updating device drivers can help improve system performance and resolve issues like high CPU usage caused by outdated or incompatible drivers. Make sure to regularly check for driver updates to keep your computer running smoothly.

Evaluating the Need to Disable Windows Defender

If you are experiencing high CPU usage due to Antimalware Service Executable, you may want to consider disabling Windows Defender temporarily. This can be helpful in determining if the issue is related to the antivirus software. To do this, open Windows Security by clicking on the Windows Security icon in the system tray. Click on “Virus & threat protection” and then “Manage settings. ” Toggle off the “Real-time protection” option.

Monitor your CPU usage to see if the problem persists. Keep in mind that disabling Windows Defender leaves your computer vulnerable to threats, so only do this temporarily for troubleshooting purposes. If you find that disabling Windows Defender resolves the high CPU usage, you may need to consider alternative antivirus solutions or investigate further into the issue.

FAQs

How do I stop antimalware service executable from using so much CPU?

To stop antimalware service executable from using too much CPU, you can adjust the Task Scheduler settings by navigating to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows, selecting Windows Defender, unchecking “Run with highest privileges”, and unchecking all items in the Conditions section.

Is it OK to disable antimalware service executable?

Disabling the Antimalware Service Executable process may be acceptable in certain situations, especially if you have a dependable third-party antivirus program and the executable is causing excessive resource usage.

Why is Windows Defender taking up 100% CPU?

Windows Defender is taking up 100% CPU because it is running scans in the background. To resolve this issue, you can reschedule the scans to run when you are not using your computer by accessing Task Scheduler from the Start Menu.

Why is antimalware service executable running high power usage?

The antimalware service executable is running high power usage because it is constantly scanning files, connections, and applications in real-time for protection, as well as running Full Scan which can slow down the system and increase CPU usage.

Harvey Bolton