Is Your PC Slowing Down? Too Many Background Processes Might Be the Problem
Is Your PC Slowing Down? Too Many Background Processes Might Be the Problem
Ever feel like your computer is dragging its feet, even though you're not running anything heavy? You click around, but it’s laggy… unresponsive… and just plain slow. One of the most common causes we see here at ABQ Computer Pros is too many background processes running behind the scenes.
Let’s break down what that means—and more importantly—how you can fix it.
What Are Background Processes Anyway?
Background processes are apps or services that run without you seeing them directly. They support things like cloud syncing, printer communication, antivirus protection, and app updates. Some are necessary—but many aren’t.
When too many processes pile up, they start hogging your CPU, RAM, and hard drive, leaving little power for the programs you actually want to use.
Signs You Have Too Many Background Processes
Your computer is unusually slow at startup
Apps take forever to open
The fan is constantly spinning
You see random freezes or crashes
Task Manager shows high CPU or memory usage, even when idle
If that sounds familiar, keep reading.
Step 1: Open Task Manager and Take a Look
Hit Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager on your Windows PC.
Head to the Processes tab.
Scroll down to Background Processes.
Click the CPU, Memory, or Disk column to sort by usage.
Here, you’ll see what’s eating up your system’s resources. Some names may be familiar—others might be junk you don’t need running.
If something looks unnecessary, right-click and hit End Task. Just be careful not to close system-critical services!
Step 2: Clean Up Your Startup Programs
Too many programs launch automatically when you start your PC. Let’s fix that.
In Task Manager, go to the Startup tab
Disable anything you don’t need loading at boot (Spotify, Skype, Discord, etc.)
Restart your PC and feel the difference
Not sure what something does? When in doubt, Google it or give ABQ Computer Pros a call—we’re happy to help.
