Tips to Reduce CPU Usage

A computer's central processing unit or CPU is its main processing center which is responsible for performing calculations that allow your computer to run. The more simultaneous calculations that the CPU is required to perform, the more likely it is to lag and overheat. Reducing CPU usage can increase computing speed and lower the chances of crashing or damage caused by overheating.

Computer Usage

One of the easiest ways to reduce the load on your CPU is to change your computer usage habits. The more programs you run at the same time, the higher CPU usage is, so avoid running more than a few programs at once. Any time you are finished with a program, close it, and make sure to exit the program if it is still running on the task bar. Avoiding multitasking will dramatically improve performance, especially when you begin a process which requires a high amount of CPU usage, such as rendering video and converting file formats. If you play computer games, close all other programs but the game you want to play before you start. Getting rid of desktop icons by deleting them or storing them in folders can also help speed up using your desktop.

Shut Down Processes

Another important way to limit CPU usage is to shut down unnecessary programs and processes which may run in the background or start up without any action on your part. Use the task manager (hold control, alt and delete at the same time) to select and cancel processes or applications that you don't need. You can also significantly increase boot speed by reducing the number of startup programs your computer launches every time you turn it on. To change these settings click "Start," then "Run," type "msconfig" and press "OK." You can choose start up programs you wish to disable under the "Startup" tab.

Increase Cooling

Heat interferes with the performance of electronic components like CPUs. The hotter your CPU gets, the harder it has to work to perform the same operation. Adding more case fans to your computer to circulate air can improve CPU performance. Always make sure your computer's case is in a cool location out of direct sunlight to reduce heat. If you have insufficient cooling in your case, consider opening the case with a screwdriver and running the computer with an external fan blowing across the motherboard as a stopgap measure until you can install better cooling in your case. You can check your CPU temperature by entering the BIOS setup utility during startup, (restart and press the appropriate key when prompted to enter BIOS setup) or by running a free diagnostic program such as SpeedFan.