What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
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A 100% CPU reading means your processor is fully busy at that moment; it does not reveal why, and it does not by itself mean the PC is broken or infected. Start in Task Manager: sort processes by CPU, identify what is using the processor, and work through the relevant checks below. Microsoft recommends checking resource use, startup apps, background activity, Windows updates and possible malware before assuming a hardware problem.
Find out what is using the CPU
- Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager.
- In the Processes view, select the CPU column to sort by current usage. If needed, select the column again to put the highest use at the top.
- Note the process name and whether its CPU use stays high or falls after a short wait. Check again after restarting if the load seems temporary.
A browser with many tabs or another app you recognize may explain the load. If a familiar app you do not need is responsible, save your work and close it normally. Do not end an unfamiliar Windows process just because it appears near the top: the name alone may not tell you what depends on it.
If no open app explains the load
Review startup apps and background activity
Windows may run apps or services when you sign in or while you are not actively using them. Microsoft recommends disabling startup apps you do not need and reviewing background app permissions. Change one relevant setting at a time, then check Task Manager again so you can see whether that change affected CPU use.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Check Windows updates and drivers
Open Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. Windows updates can include performance fixes, but installing one is not a guaranteed remedy. You can also review optional driver updates through Windows Update if they are available for your device; avoid treating a driver update as a certain fix for every high-CPU problem.
#1 Best Overall
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- Extra Usb Ports: Extra USB port and power switch design allows for connecting more USB devices. Warm Tips: The packaged cable is USB to USB connection. Type C connection devices need to prepare an Type C to USB adapter
Scan for malware when there is a reason to suspect it
Malware is one possible cause of high resource use, but a 100% reading alone is not evidence of infection. If you suspect malware, run a full scan in Windows Security. Microsoft notes that the PC may run more slowly while a full scan is underway.
Use a clean boot to isolate background software
If the usual checks do not identify the cause, a clean boot can help determine whether a background program is interfering. Microsoft describes it as starting Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It is a diagnostic step, not a permanent configuration.
Rank #2
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- Dual USB Hub: With a built-in dual USB hub, the laptop fan enables you to connect additional USB devices to your laptop, providing extra connectivity options for your peripherals. Warm tips: The packaged cable is a USB-to-USB connection. Type C connection devices require a Type C to USB adapter.
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- Follow Microsoft’s clean boot instructions for your Windows version.
- Keep a record of the services and startup items you disable. If CPU use improves, re-enable items methodically to identify what is involved.
- When you finish testing, restore normal startup using Microsoft’s instructions. A clean-boot environment can temporarily remove functionality you normally use.
If the problem began after a Windows update
Pay attention to timing: if the high CPU use started immediately after an update, review Microsoft’s Windows recovery options. They include uninstalling an update where appropriate. Follow the instructions that match your Windows version and device; removing an update is not a routine first step when the timing does not point to one.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →When to get help
If you cannot identify the responsible process, or you are not comfortable changing startup settings or recovery options, ask a reputable Windows repair professional for help. Avoid jumping straight to reinstalling Windows: first use the process-level checks and recovery guidance that fit what you observed.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 9 Super Cooling Fans: The 9-core laptop cooling pad can efficiently cool your laptop down, this laptop cooler has the air vent in the top and bottom of the case, you can set different modes for the cooling fans.
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Rank #4
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Rank #3
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- 👑【Double USB Ports】One USB port can power the laptop cooler, the other one can be connected to external devices, such as keyboard, mouse, audio, etc. Blue LED indicators confirm the fans are running. Note: The included cable is USB-A to USB-A.
- 👍【Ergonomic Comfort】Choose between two adjustable height settings to achieve a more comfortable viewing angle. Integrated rubber pads on the surface and base keep your laptop securely in place.
- 👌【Wide Compatibility】Compatible with various laptop sizes from 12 up to 17 inches, such as Apple MacBook Pro Air, HP, Alienware, Dell, Lenovo, ASUS, etc (USB cable included). The laptop fan can also accurately dissipate heat for your tablet, router, game console.
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