Solution for High CPU Usage by Windows Driver Foundation

Nov. 15, 2024 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

windows-driver-foundation-high-cpu-usage

Many users face high CPU usage from Windows Driver Foundation (WDF). This article offers solutions to fix the issue and boost performance.

1. Update Device Drivers

Outdated or faulty device drivers are a common cause of high CPU usage by Windows Driver Foundation (WDF). Updating drivers can resolve potential conflicts and compatibility issues. Use Driver Talent to automatically detect and update drivers efficiently while avoiding errors.

Download Driver Talent

Download the latest version of Driver Talent, install it, and open the software. Click "Scan".
Review the scan results for missing or outdated drivers. Locate the relevant drivers and click "Download".

driver-update

Restart your computer after updating to ensure the changes take effect.

2. Disable the Windows Driver Foundation Service

Press Windows + R, type "services.msc", and press Enter.

In the Services window, scroll down to find "Windows Driver Foundation - User-mode Driver Framework".

disable-windows-driver-foundation-service

Right-click the service and select Properties.

Under Startup Type, choose "Disabled".

Click Stop to halt the service, then click "Apply" and "OK".

Restart your computer to check if CPU usage improves.

Note: Disabling this service may affect the functionality of some hardware devices, such as printers or external peripherals. Only disable it if it is confirmed to be the cause of high CPU usage.

3. Run the System File Checker (SFC) Tool

Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow

The SFC tool will scan system files and repair any detected issues. This process may take a few minutes.

Restart your computer after the scan and check if the issue is resolved.

4. Disable Unnecessary Startup Items and Services

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.

Navigate to the Startup tab. Identify unnecessary startup programs, right-click them, and select Disable.

Press Windows + R, type "msconfig", and press Enter.

Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and disable unnecessary third-party services.

disable-unnecessary-services

Click "Apply" and "OK".

Restart your computer to see if CPU usage has decreased.

5. Run System Maintenance Troubleshooter

Open the Control Panel by searching for it in the search bar.

Set the view to Large Icons, locate Troubleshooting, and open it.

Click "View All" on the left panel.

Find "System Maintenance" and click on it.

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Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

Restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

6. Check for Windows Updates

Press Windows + I to open Settings.

Navigate to "Update & Security" and click "Check for Updates".

If updates are available, click "Download and Install" and wait for the process to complete.

Restart your computer and monitor CPU usage.

7. Inspect Hardware Devices

Ensure all hardware devices, such as external hard drives, printers, and graphics cards, are properly connected.

Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.

Expand the relevant device category, right-click the device, and select Properties. Check the Driver tab to confirm the device's status.

Replace or repair faulty hardware, especially those causing driver-related issues.

8. Reset Windows System

Press Windows + I to open Settings, and navigate to "Update & Security".

Click Recovery and select "Get Started" under Reset this PC.

reset-windows-system

Choose Keep My Files to retain personal data.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process. The system will restart and begin resetting.

After the reset, check if the Windows Driver Foundation service still causes high CPU usage.