If your PC sounds like it’s preparing for lift-off mid-game, it’s probably your CPU crying for help. Don’t worry, these quick checks and tweaks should help bring those temperatures (and noise levels) back down to earth.
In-Game & Software Adjustments
Lower Graphics Settings
Heavy visual settings can push your CPU to its limit. Try lowering:
- Shadows
- Particle effects
- Post-processing
- Other high-detail options
You can usually find these options under Video or Graphics in your game settings.
Perform Clean Boot
Other programs can fight for the spotlight, let's lessen the game's competition by performing a clean boot.
Update Graphics (GPU) Drivers
Outdated or broken drivers can cause unstable performance or high CPU load.
Unsure how to update your GPU? We have you covered here!
Enable Windows Game Mode
Game Mode helps your system focus its resources on your game.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Go to Gaming > Game Mode
- Toggle Game Mode to On
System & Hardware Checks
Check for Overheating
When your CPU overheats, it can throttle performance to cool down.
- Make sure your PC or laptop fans are working properly
- Use compressed air to clear out dust from vents and fans
- Avoid playing in hot or poorly ventilated areas
You can also use hardware monitoring tools like HWMonitor or MSI Afterburner to check CPU temperatures.
Adjust Power Settings
A restricted power plan can limit performance.
- Open Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options
- Select Balanced or High Performance
Scan for Malware
Viruses or background malware can secretly consume CPU resources.
- Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection
- Click Quick Scan (or Full Scan for a deeper check)
- Remove or quarantine any detected threats
Advanced Troubleshooting
Set Process Priority
If CPU usage spikes while gaming or using certain apps:
- Open Task Manager
- Go to the Details tab
- Right-click your game or app’s process > Set priority > High
This gives it more access to CPU resources.
Perform System Scans
Corrupted system files can cause resource spikes.
- Open Command Prompt (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin)
- Type sfc /scannow
- Press Enter and wait for the scan to finish
- Restart your PC once it’s done
Evaluate Hardware
If high CPU usage continues even after all steps, your system may be struggling with newer titles or multitasking loads. Consider:
- Upgrading your CPU or cooling solution
- Adding more RAM
- Reapplying thermal paste if your CPU runs hot
Still Having Issues?
If CPU usage stays high after trying all steps:
- Take a screenshot of Task Manager’s Performance tab.
- Generate a DxDiag report.
- Scroll down and submit a ticket (together with both the files!), our Support Team will be ready to jump in and get you back in the fight.