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Fix: GPU Spikes When Idle [From 0% To 100%]

Try these solutions to solve high GPU utilization when idle problem

5 min. read

Updated onApril 29, 2024

updated onApril 29, 2024

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You may notice that your GPU often spikes when in an idle state. This may happen on the Windows operating system.

Usually, when this problem occurs, you may notice that the GPU usage jumps from 0% to 100%. You may have seen100% CPU usagein idle. That is somehow common. But, the problem with the graphics card is rare. This article will help you to solve the high GPU usage issue in an idle state on Windows.

Why does GPU utilization spike when it is in an idle state?

Usually, high GPU usage problems may occur for varieties of reasons. However, if you dig deeper, you will find these as the most common culprits:

How do I fix GPU spikes when in an idle state?

Before trying the actual methods, we suggest you check the following things:

After ensuring these steps, go through the following methods to fix high GPU usage issues when you are not doing anything on your PC.

1. Update Windows

If necessary, restart your PC after updating.

2. Update graphics card

The bad thing is Windows Device Manager often fails to detect the latest driver for the graphics card. As a result, the above steps may not be practical. So, we suggest you use anautomated driver updating tool.

These tools can scan and detect outdated or missing drivers on your PC. You can update them with just a single click using this tool. Otherwise, they can do this thing automatically according to your preferred schedule.

Updating drivers doesn’t only solve 100% GPU utilization issue in an idle state but also solvesGPU crash issues while gaming.

3. End background tasks

This process may temporarily fix the sudden GPU spikes problem that appears in an idle state. However, after the next bootup, it may return. So, the better idea is to update the software or uninstall it completely.

4. Uninstall problematic software

The built-in uninstaller always leaves some leftovers on your PC. So, you can consider using a tool likeIObit Uninstaller. It can altogether remove any software from your computer.

Problematic software can cause various problems, likehigh CPU usage when GPU usage is lowor vice versa. Uninstalling them will solve such situations.

5. Re-install the graphics driver

To install more conveniently, you can also depend onspecialized driver updating software. After installing the appropriate driver, restart Windows. It should solve the GPU spikes issue when idle state.

6. Scan the PC with a good antivirus/malware software

If you see a malicious program, uninstall it, as shown in method 4. Virus issues often cause your computer to have high GPU and CPU usage problems.

For best security, you can consider usingESET HOME Security Essentialwhich is currently the best choice for PC users. If necessary, you also can know about thebest antimalware toolsand use any of them you want.

This article has featured the best methods to solve GPU spikes when idle on Windows. If you know any better method, you can write it down in the comment box.

Fix: GPU Spikes When Idle [From 0% To 100%]#

Why does GPU utilization spike when it is in an idle state?#

How do I fix GPU spikes when in an idle state?#

1. Update Windows#

2. Update graphics card#

3. End background tasks#

4. Uninstall problematic software#

5. Re-install the graphics driver#

6. Scan the PC with a good antivirus/malware software#