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Fix: Windows Explorer High CPU Usage on Windows 11
7 min. read
Updated onApril 12, 2024
updated onApril 12, 2024
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Key notes
Unlike issues with Explorer.exe high CPU usage in Windows 11, a computer at one time or the other is likely to experience high CPU usage. This is perfectly normal provided it happens seldomly and does not significantly affect the performance of the PC.
This however becomes a problem when it is recurrent. It may make the system heat up, delay load time and probably freeze when you are working on an important task.
Why does my computer experience Explorer.exe high CPU usage?
Generally, a computer might experience high CPU usage due to one of the following:
Meanwhile, Windows 11 users complain that the Explorer.exe high CPU usage issue started they updated their Windows.
We understand this is just one of the many reasons that can cause high CPU usage. Read along as we highlight processes that could fix the problem, irrespective of the cause.
How can I fix Explorer.exe high CPU usage in Windows 11?
1. Close the Explorer.exe file in the Task Manager
Repeat the process above for any other program that may be causing the high CPU usage. If this does not fix the issue or you are unable to open theTask Manageraltogether, read on for other solutions.
2. Use the system file checker
3. Update Windows
4. Disable cloud storage
By default, Windows 11 comes with a OneDrive cloud storage. This storage helps to backup your system file in case you are attacked by ransomware. For clarity, ransomware is a type of virus used by cybercriminals to extort users.
It can be unknowingly downloaded along with files online and once installed, takes over all your files such that they would be impossible to open.
The attackers after this will display a message to make a certain payment before you can get a key to regain access. Even after payment.
Some users have reported disabling their OneDrive account helps to fix this issue. In case you don’t know how to go about this, take a look at our guide on how touninstall any app on Windows 11.
If you are not using OneDrive but other cloud storage such as Dropbox, try to do the same and observe if it fixes the problem.
5. Check the desktop for any files with missing icon
During the creation of shortcuts, some apps may fail to create icons. Even though this looks like something that shouldn’t be a problem, it surprisingly could cause Explorer.exe high CPU usage.
Observe your desktop screen if there is any file with a missing icon. If there are any, delete them. Check if the problem or resolved. You may also restart your PC to confirm.
6. Uninstall the latest Windows updates
It is typical ofMicrosoftto always release patches to solve one issue or the other observed with the usage of the Windows Operating System (OS). Sometimes, these updates may be the origin of problems for your PC.
In all fairness to the company, they are only trying to help and ensure you have the best experience possible. But, just like it is with any software, glitches are inevitable.
Users have noted that theKB5010414update is the cause of their Explorer.exe high CPU usage, and it was fixed immediately after it was uninstalled.
7. Disable startup applications
8. Run a virus scan
Malware may be the reason your system is experiencing Explorer.exe high CPU usage. If you have any antivirus/antimalware software installed, it is time to get them to use. Do a deep scan to detect any virus on the system.
Make use of more than one antivirus software to ensure you are not missing anything. Don’t know which antivirus software to use? There are somefree antivirus appsyou may want to consider, such asESET HOME Security Essentialdue to its effectiveness in protecting any Windows operating system from malware, ransomware, and phishing.
⇒Get ESET HOME SecurityEssential
9. Adjust system for best performance
If none of the methods above seemed to work, you can still try optimizing your hard drives with the defragment tool.
10. System restore
11. Optimize system hard drive
To skip the process above, you can useO&ODefrag 25to optimize with ease. Instead of the long list of processes highlighted, you would only need to install the software and relax while it takes care of the rest.
There you have it all. At this stage, we believe one of the solutions explained so far would have helped you in solving the Explorer.exe high CPU usage problem.
Share your experience in the comment section, and let’s know if you were able to solve it using a different method.
More about the topics:Windows 11
Vladimir Popescu
Being an artist his entire life while also playing handball at a professional level, Vladimir has also developed a passion for all things computer-related.
With an innate fascination for research and analysis, and realizing many other people share his passion for this subject, he delved into writing Windows-related articles, so other people can also benefit from the acquired information.
When not writing kick-ass articles, Vladimir likes to spend his time doing Crossfit and creating art.
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