It is quite common for computer users to experience spikes in CPU usage. Usually it is due to the genuine load of computer applications on the computer resources and the reason is legitimate. On the other hand, if you notice a constant high usage of CPU, it means that there is some problem with your computer.
You can easily track CPU usage by accessing Windows Task Manager. This tool can be viewed by pressing Ctrl, Alt, Delete simultaneously. It also has a Performance tab where you can monitor CPU usage history. In case the history graphs show a trend of high usage then you need to rectify this problem.
Here are some of the common issues that are known to cause high CPU consumption:
Malware Infection
Several types of malware including virus, trojans and spyware are known to attack the CPU resources of your system. By far, malware is the single largest reason behind high CPU consumption. They create havoc on your system by launching destructive or useless processes that hog CPU resources and render your system virtually inoperable.
Therefore, if you encounter such a scenario where you detect constant pressure on CPU resources, you must immediately perform a complete scan by using an advanced anti-malware program.
Unwanted Programs
There is a tendency among many users to install as many of the latest software applications as possible. This may not be a wise idea as it may lead to various computer problems including high CPU usage. Some of the application files are not very friendly with a particular computer and this may lead to high CPU consumption.
For example, if you have installed Java Run Time on a Windows 2007 computer you may notice that a file named ssvagent.exe consumes up to 90% of CPU. In such cases, you may need to uninstall the software to get rid of the problem.
Unnecessary Start-up Files
Some of the essential files are programmed to start-up automatically when your system starts. However, there are some instances where some of these files that load automatically are not essential during the startup process and they unnecessarily slow down your system. On the contrary, they may create problems like high CPU usage.
An example of this situation is evident in the case of the file named aawservice.exe which though a legitimate file, is infamous for eating up to 90-100% of the resources of your CPU. A quick resolution of this problem is by stopping the automatic uploading of the file. Another example of such a problem is the khalmnpr.exe file which is known to cause system freezes. This problem can be solved by terminating the process and then completely removing the file from the system.
Unclean Windows Registry
Your Windows registry carries all the necessary information that ensures seamless operation of all aspects of your system. Right from the moment you buy your computer, it is constantly being updated and accessed for information. Over a period of time, it tends to become inaccurate and bloated with obsolete information that may eat into CPU resources and slow down the computer. Therefore, it is recommended that the Windows registry is scanned and cleaned thoroughly. You can do this easily with the help of a trustworthy registry cleaner tool.