Antimalware Service Executable, part of Windows Defender, can sometimes use a lot of CPU power, leading to system slowdowns. Here are three effective strategies for reducing its CPU load.
Understanding the Antimalware Service Executable
Antimalware Service Executable is part of Windows Defender and provides real-time protection against malware. It runs in the background, scanning files and applications to keep your system secure.
High CPU or Disk Usage Reasons
High CPU or disk usage by Antimalware Service Executable can occur due to several reasons:
- Real-time protection: Constantly scanning files and applications.
- Full system scans: Running scheduled or manual scans.
- Software conflicts: Conflicts with other antivirus programs.
- Outdated system: Running on an outdated Windows version or with outdated virus definitions.
Solutions to Resolve High CPU Consumption by Antimalware Service Executable
Perform a Clean Boot
Performing a clean boot helps identify if background services are causing the issue:
- Open System Configuration: Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
- Disable startup programs: In the General tab, select Selective Startup and uncheck Load startup items.
- Disable services: Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and click Disable all.
- Restart your computer: Click OK and restart your system.
Solution 2: Adjust Windows Defender’s Schedule
Adjusting the scan schedule helps run scans at less busy times:
- Open Task Scheduler: Press Windows + R, type taskschd.msc, and press Enter.
- Navigate to Windows Defender tasks: Go to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Windows Defender.
- Modify the Scheduled Scan: Right-click Windows Defender Scheduled Scan and select Properties.
- Adjust the schedule: In the Triggers tab, select the existing trigger, click Edit, and adjust the schedule to a less busy time.
Exclude MsMpEng.exe from Windows Defender Scans
Excluding the Antimalware Service Executable from scans can reduce CPU usage:
- Open Windows Security: Click on the Start menu, type Windows Security, and press Enter.
- Access Virus & Threat Protection settings: Go to Virus & Threat Protection> Manage settings.
- Add an exclusion: Scroll down to Exclusions, click Add or remove exclusions, click Add an exclusion, select Process, and type MsMpEng.exe.
Adjust Windows Defender’s Schedule
Modifying the scan schedule can help run scans at less busy times. Here’s how:
- Press Windows + R, type taskschd.msc, and press Enter.
- Go to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Windows Defender in the left pane.
- Right-click Windows Defender Scheduled Scan and select Properties.
- In the Triggers tab, select the existing trigger and click Edit.
- Adjust the schedule to when you are less likely to use your computer, then click OK.
Add Antimalware Service Executable to Exclusions
Excluding the process from Windows Defender scans can help reduce CPU usage. Follow these steps:
- Open Windows Security:
- Click on the Start menu, type Windows Security, and press Enter.
- Access Virus & Threat Protection Settings:
- Go to Virus & Threat Protection.
- Under Virus & Threat Protection settings, click Manage Settings.
Add an Exclusion:
- Scroll down to Exclusions and click Add or Remove Exclusions.
- Click Add an Exclusion, select Process, and type MsMpEng.exe.
Disable Real-Time Protection Temporarily
Disabling and then re-enabling real-time protection can help reset the CPU usage. Here’s how:
- Click on the Start menu, type Windows Security, and press Enter.
- Go to Virus & threat protection.
- Under Virus & Threat Protection settings, click Manage Settings.
- Find Real-time protection and toggle it off.
- Wait a few moments, then toggle it back on.
Additional Tips
Update Windows and Drivers:
- Keeping your system updated can help optimize performance.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
- By following these strategies, you can manage and reduce the CPU load from the Antimalware Service Executable, ensuring smoother PC performance.
Some Questions
What is Antimalware Service Executable?
It is a part of Windows Defender and is responsible for real-time protection against malware.
Why does it use a high CPU?
It can use a high CPU during system scans or updates, impacting performance.
Is it safe to disable Windows Defender?
Disabling Windows Defender can leave your system vulnerable to threats. Ensure you have an alternative antivirus installed if you disable it.
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