If you are suffering from the Antimalware Service Executable High CPU Usage issue, this post is specifically written to help you. Here, I will guide you on how to fix this common High CPU Usage issue on Windows 10, 8 or 7.
I’ll list and explain all the working method to deal with this problem.
What is Antimalware Service Executable?
Windows OS uses a lot of services and programs that keep running in the background to provide the best user experience. The Antimalware Service Executable or MsMpEng.exe is part of the Windows services that run in the background. This service is present to keep checking if any malware tries to invade your PC. It checks files for malware, organizes system scans in the background for risky software and installs antivirus definite updates from time to time. It is basically the main service working behind Windows Defender. The Windows Defender is part of Microsoft’s user security program. It is automatically activated when you don’t have an active antivirus application.
When Windows Defender is working, the Antimalware Service Executable starts performing several operations. This gives rise to the Antimalware Service Executable High CPU Usage issue. It is a common problem that many Windows users face. You can check it by going to the Task Manager, switching to the Details tab, and seeing MsMpEng.exe. You’ll find that the service is consuming more than 90% of CPU. This leads to your computer slowing down, lagging, or even freezing completely.
How to Fix Antimalware Service Executable High CPU Usage?
Knowing to fix this problem is a must. That’s why I’m here to help you. I will tell you about all the working methods to solve this problem. After thorough research and trials, I have found the 5 Best Methods to resolve this issue. I’ll tell and explain to you about using them to fix this dreadful issue.
1. Disable Antimalware Service Executable
The simplest way to resolve this issue is by disabling the service. So, the next time it starts, it’ll be normal and won’t consume high CPU power. Follow these steps in order to know what you need to do here.
- Press the Windows + R key to trigger the Run dialog box. Type services in it and hit Enter. This will take you to the Services window.
- In the Services window, find the Windows Defender Antivirus Service and click on it. This will open the properties of the service.
- In the Properties window, set the Startup type to Automatic and click on the Stop button.
- Finally, click on Apply and then Ok to save your work.
That’s it. This will instantly solve the high CPU usage issue. However, this may not work as a permanent solution for many users. In that case, you should try the next method as well.
2. Disable Windows Defender
If the problem keeps persisting, then you’ll have to turn off the Windows Defender for some time. However, I would strongly recommend that you turn it on again as you should never compromise with the security. Follow these steps in order to disable Windows Defender and fix the issue.
- Press and hold the Windows + I key to trigger the Settings app.
- Now turn off the Real-time protection switch. Next, go to the Update & Security section.
- Here, click on Windows Defender from the left side pane. Then, click on Open Windows Defender Security Center from the right side pane.
- Now click on Virus & Threat Protection in the next window.
- Next, click on Virus & Threat Protection settings.
- Next, disable Real-time protection. You can also choose to disable other options present on this page as well.
That’s it. This will solve the problem for you. However, you should not do this if you don’t have a good antivirus working for you.
3. Exclude Antimalware Service Executable from Windows Defender
Adding Antimalware Service to the Windows Defender exclusion list is a good way to deal with this issue. It is one of the most accurate methods available. Follow the instructions written below to know what you need to do.
- Press and hold the Windows + I key to trigger the Settings app.
- Now go to the Update & Security section.
- Here, click on Windows Defender from the left side pane. Then, click on Add an exclusion from the right side pane present under the Exclusion section.
- Now scroll down and click on Exclude a .exe, .com or .scr process.
- Next, type MsMpEng.exe in it and then click on OK to save the changes.
That’s it. You have now added the Antimalware service to the exclusion list of Windows Defender. So, it will stop working continuously and causing havoc on your PC.
4. Use Command Prompt to Disable Windows Defender
You can also use the Command Prompt to disable Windows Defender on your PC. This will help you to resolve the annoying issue. The process is simple and very effective. Follow the steps mentioned below in order to solve the problem.
- Press and hold the Windows + X key to access the Power user menu. Select Command Prompt (Admin) from the menu to open the Command Prompt window. Make sure to choose admin privileges as you’ll need them to do what you want to.
- In the Command Prompt window, copy and paste the following command and hit Enter on the keyboard-
REG ADD “hklm\software\policies\microsoft\windows defender” /v DisableAntiSpyware /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
- Restart your computer.
This method is known to solve the issue for many users. You can give it a try as well.
5. Install and Activate a Good Third-Party Antivirus
One of the simplest ways to solve this problem is by using good third-party antivirus software on your PC. The Windows Defender will not work together with the third-party antivirus and so the Antimalware service also won’t work. If it won’t work, it will not cause high CPU usage. This way you can solve the problem without messing with your security.
So, just find, install, and activate a good third-party antivirus software on your PC. Choosing the right antivirus is the key here. A good antivirus should be able to regularly scan and defend your computer against all kinds of threats. Also, it should always keep the virus definitions updated.
Final Words
That’s all for this post. You now know what the Antimalware Service Executable High CPU usage issue is and how to resolve it. So, whenever you’ll face it in the future, you won’t panic. Solving the problem will also restore the speed and performance of your PC. You can also visit the Microsoft thread related to the problem. For any queries, feel free to visit the comment section and ask me. I’ll try to respond very soon.
