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MSConfig Only Shows 1 Processor? Here’s How to Fix the Problem

Don’t worry, the cores are still there

4 min. read

Published onJuly 4, 2024

published onJuly 4, 2024

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Dealing with the issue where MSConfig only shows one processor can be quite frustrating, especially when you know your system has multiple cores. Don’t worry, it’s dust a issue with the settings. All the cores are there.

What can I do if MSConfig only shows one processor/core?

What can I do if MSConfig only shows one processor/core?

1. Verify Task Manager and Resource Monitor

This method helps you verify if all the cores are being recognized and used by your system, providing a clear view of your CPU activity.

There’s also an option tochange the number of processors in MSConfig. Check the highlighted guide if you made any changes by mistake.

2. Uncheck the Number of Processors in MSConfig

By unchecking theNumber of processorsbox, you allow Windows to use the maximum number of cores available. This ensures that all your cores are active.

3. Enable Turbo Mode and EIST in BIOS

Enabling Turbo Mode and EIST in BIOS ensures optimal performance by allowing the CPU to use all its cores and operate at higher speeds when needed.

4. Ensure the cores are not disabled in BIOS

This step ensures that no cores are disabled at the hardware level, allowing Windows to recognize and use all cores.

5. Reset the Boot configuration

This command removes any boot configuration option that limits the number of processors, ensuring that Windows uses all available cores.

6. Perform a clean boot

Performing a clean boot can help identify if a third-party application or service is interfering with the CPU core recognition.

Of course, also make sure that you installed all impending Windows updates. This might also be a bug that has already been fixed in the latest patch.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of MSConfig only showing one processor.

You might also find useful our guide onfixing MSConfig if it keeps reverting to selective startup.

If youraccess is denied while trying to change a service in MSConfig, the highlighted guide will help you retake control.

For any questions or suggestions, hit the comments section below and write about them.

More about the topics:CPU

Claudiu Andone

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Oldtimer in the tech and science press, Claudiu is focused on whatever comes new from Microsoft.

His abrupt interest in computers started when he saw the first Home Computer as a kid. However, his passion for Windows and everything related became obvious when he became a sys admin in a computer science high school.

With 14 years of experience in writing about everything there is to know about science and technology, Claudiu also likes rock music, chilling in the garden, and Star Wars. May the force be with you, always!

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Claudiu Andone

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Oldtimer in the tech and science press, with 14 years of experience in writing on everything there is to know about science, technology, and Microsoft