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How to Fix the Windows Driver Foundation High CPU Usage
This problem is usually caused by a malfunctioning Wi-Fi driver
5 min. read
Updated onAugust 19, 2024
updated onAugust 19, 2024
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To fix various driver issues on your PC, you will need a dedicated tool to find the freshest and the original drivers. You can use PC HelpSoft Driver Updater to do it in 3 easy steps:
Usually, the Windows Driver Foundation (WDF) doesn’t use too many resources. However, Many Windows users often complain that the Windows Driver Frameworks uses too much CPU, slowing down Windows and draining the battery insanely fast. Here’s how to bring things back to normal!
How can I fix Windows Driver Foundation’s high CPU usage?
1. Perform a clean boot
Sometimes third-party applications or services can cause the Windows Driver Foundation high CPU issue. To pinpoint the cause, it’s advised to perform a clean boot.
Your PC will now start without any third-party services or applications. Now you need to check if the problem is resolved.
If so, you’ll need to enable disabled applications and services one by one until you find the one causing this issue. Remember to restart your PC to apply changes after allowing an application.
2. Reinstall your Wi-Fi driver
According to users, sometimes problems with Windows Driver Framework and high CPU usage can occur due to your drivers. Several users reported fixing the issue simply by reinstalling their WiFi driver.
Also, if you are experiencing the Windows Driver Foundation high CPU issue with DisplayLink, you should know the driver uses the WDF process. So, choosing between the high CPU and the ability to extend your active displays would be best.
Since Windows Driver Framework is related to your drivers, we strongly suggest keeping your drivers up to date to fix this problem.
3. Run the System Maintenance troubleshooter
The System Maintenance troubleshooter helps to make your PC run optimally. For example, this can help fix the Windows Driver Foundation high CPU issue.
4. Change the Zoom video setting
Zoom uses a feature called Media Foundation for Video Capturing Method. Unfortunately, this can use the Windows Driver Foundation process leading to high CPU usage.
Following the steps above should help normalize the process.
5. Run the Memory Diagnostic tool
How to fix Windows Driver Foundation high CPU usage on Windows 11?
Besides applying the solutions above, you can also do the following:
For more solutions, check out our guide on how to fixhigh CPU usage in Windows 11.
Memory issues are another known cause of this abnormal resource usage. Again, the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool should detect and recommend effective fixes.
Alternatively, you can useMemTest86to detect and fix issues with your PC memory.
What causes Windows Driver Foundation’s high CPU usage?
There are a few reasons the Windows Driver Foundation registers high CPU usage when using a media player. Below are some of the potential causes to look out for:
The Windows Driver Foundation’s high CPU issue can make your PC run at unbearable temperatures. Unfortunately, this can lead to more severe problems in the future. Thankfully, this guide has everything you need to fix it effectively.
Are you facing a related issue, such asExplorer.exe high CPU usage? Then, check our detailed guide to fix it quickly.
Feel free to let us know the fix that helped you get past this issue in the comments below.
More about the topics:CPU,High CPU usage
Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina has been a Windows fan ever since she got her hands on her first Windows XP computer.
She is interested in all things technology, especially emerging technologies – AI and DNA computing in particular.
Prior to joining the WindowsReport team, she worked in the corporate world for a number of years.
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Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina is a Windows fan since forever, especially interested in AI, emerging technologies, privacy, and security.
