My CPU usage reaches 100% across nearly all applications.
My CPU usage reaches 100% across nearly all applications.
Hello everyone, I just wanted to greet you all and thank you for taking the time to look at this issue. A few days ago, I cleaned up my CPU and applied new thermal paste. After that, my CPU started acting oddly. When I run programs such as VLC, iTunes, and Adobe, the CPU usage reaches up to 30%. Windows Defender also shows high usage during full scans. It seems like reapplying the thermal paste might have resolved the problem. I’m not sure what’s causing it. Could overclocking be related? Is it possible that the fans aren’t cooling the CPU properly because I have an Intel processor on it? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Here are my PC specifications:
Asus P8Z77-V LX2 - Motherboard
Intel core i5 3570k 3.4ghz - Processor (set to 4)
Gainward gtx 980 phantom - GPU
Patriot viper 3 2x8gb 1600MHz - RAM
Patriot Viper 3 8gb 2133MHz - RAM
Evga supernova 850 g2 - PSU
Samsung SSD 850 Evo 250GB main drive
Hitachi HHD 1TB - additional drive
SeaGate 500GB - additional drive
I use Avast for antivirus, it's free too. Also, consider downloading Malwarebytes to scan for malware while you're doing this. Plus, install CoreTemp to monitor your CPU temperature and ensure it isn't overheating. It might be wise to stop overclocking your CPU to see if that's related.
Is the stock intel cooler in use? Have you confirmed there isn't an excess of thermal paste applied? Is the heatsink securely fastened and properly connected?
CPU activity has no connection to the heatsink or thermal paste. A CPU that runs hot does not necessarily mean high CPU usage—it’s actually the opposite. If too much thermal paste oozes onto the motherboard circuitry, it might cause shorts, though this would likely prevent you from booting. My advice is to open Task Manager, go to Processes, select all, and sort by CPU. Look for any program causing excessive load. Also perform a virus/malware scan. It’s typical for CPU usage to rise when running Windows Defender or similar resource-heavy apps. As long as you’re idle—like after a fresh restart—usage should be normal. It could simply mean several background programs are active.
CPU activity is unrelated to the heatsink or thermal paste. A hot CPU doesn't necessarily mean high CPU usage—it's the opposite. If too much thermal paste oozes onto the motherboard, it could cause shorts, though you'd probably not be able to boot. I recommend checking Task Manager, processes, and sorting by CPU. Look for programs causing high usage and run a virus/malware scan. CPU usage often spikes during tasks like Windows Defender, which are processor-heavy. As long as it's low when nothing is running, like after a reboot, it might just be background apps. In some cases, overheating can cause the CPU to slow down, increasing usage while trying to perform the same task.
Hi bjsm, yes the cooler is Intel, I've seen videos about how much to install, so it shouldn't cause any issues. The heatsink and fan are all properly connected.
Hi snurp85, it seems there might be some concerns about your PC. You're currently using Windows Defender, which is sufficient for basic protection. For additional security, you could consider free options like Malwarebytes Free or paid solutions such as Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Let me know if you'd like more details!
I also overlooked noting that during my playthrough of Call of Duty III, the CPU usage remains consistently high at over 90%, causing significant lag and rendering the game unplayable. I have a photo, but I'm unsure how to incorporate it into a comment.
I use Avast for antivirus, it's free too. Also, consider downloading Malwarebytes to scan for malware while you're doing this. Plus, install CoreTemp to monitor your CPU temperature and ensure it isn't overheating. It might be wise to stop overclocking your CPU to see if that's related.