Fix Desktop Window Manager High Cpu or Memory Issue

The Desktop Window Manager is an extremely helpful tool that is included in all mainstream versions of Windows, such as Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10; it is particularly important for the graphical user interface (GUI). However, it occasionally has problems, such as having high CPU usage. Do you have any idea how to resolve a situation of this nature?

The Desktop Window Manager is a useful program for generating visual effects on user interfaces in Windows 10, 8, 7, or XP. This includes transparency and support for high-resolution monitors. It accomplishes its goals by facilitating the application of hardware acceleration and operating as dwm.exe in the background. In response to this, a particular quantity of the processor will be utilized.

However, it's possible that you won't even notice that Desktop Window Manager is running, let alone that it's consuming a lot of CPU. As per the reviews submitted by users, one of the most bothersome aspects of Desktop Window Manager is when it uses a lot of CPU. Running dwm.exe in the background uses some resources, but the exact amount varies from system to system (it typically uses between 2% and 3% of the CPU and between 50MB and 100MB of memory). However, various factors might contribute to higher CPU utilization, one of which is the opening of an excessive number of processes.

Possible Reasons for High CPU or Memory Issues of Desktop Window Manager:

Your system currently has an excessive number of open processes.
Unfortunately, your operating system is not compatible with the display driver.
Windows 10 has certain performance concerns that need to be addressed.
There was a problem with one or more of your programs or applications.

Fixes for Desktop Window Manager High CPU or Memory Issue:

The following section of the guide explains the workable solutions for the issue. Apply these solutions in the listed order to save your crucial time.

Fix 1: Alter Settings for Optimal Performance

Step 1: To access the Control Panel in Windows 10, go here.

Step 2: Make your selections under System and Security.

Step 3: Enter "performance" into the search box located in the top right corner of the page.

Step 4: Under the heading System, find the link labeled Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows, and click it.

Step 5: In the window labeled Performance Options, select the Adjust for optimal performance check box.

Step 6: To validate your selection, please click the OK button.

Fix 2: Update Wallpaper and Theme

Desktop utilization management is one of the functions of Desktop Window Manager. In case the current theme or desktop wallpaper you're using at the moment is consuming an excessive amount of system resources. To address this, you should switch to a different one. For the same, you can apply the following instructions:

Step 1: Simply locate the button shaped like the Windows logo in the bottom-left of your screen and click on it.

Step 2: Select the Settings icon located in the menu's left-hand sidebar.

Step 3: Select the preferred background for your desktop screen.

Step 4: Make the adjustments in the background image, Colors, the Background of the lock screen, and Themes.

Once done check if the issue is fixed. Else try the next alternative.

Fix 3: Launch Performance Troubleshooter

Step 1: Launch the Windows Search program.

Step 2: Simply enter "cmd" into the text field.

Step 3: Select "Run as administrator" from the context menu of the Command Prompt by using the right mouse button.

Step 4: Press the Enter key after you have typed the msdt.exe /id PerformanceDiagnostic command.

Step 5: To proceed, click the Next button within the Performance window.

Fix 4: Turn Off the Automatic Screen saver.

Step 1: Press the Windows key and the letter S to launch the search bar.

Step 2: After entering the settings for Lock screen hit the Enter key

Step 3: Find the option to set a screen saver from the right section, then select it.

Step 4: Choose None option in the screen saver list that appears when you click the drop-down arrow.

Step 5: Noe click on OK to apply the updated settings.

Fix 5: Disable Fast Startup

Step 1: To open Run, press the Windows key plus R, then type control panel and hit the Enter key.

Step 2: Select the option System and Security from the menu.

Step 3: Now, under Power Options, click the button labeled Change what the power buttons do.

Step 4: Select the option that allows you to change settings that are not currently available.

Step 5: Remove the checkmark from the box labeled Turn on fast startup (recommended), and then click the Save changes button.

Fix 6: Restart File Explorer from Task Manager

This is merely a workaround that was detailed by one of the customers who were faced with the same difficulty, but if it was successful for him, it is definitely something that should be considered for use.

Step 1: To access the Task Manager, right-click anywhere on your taskbar that is not occupied, and then pick it.

Step 2: Navigate to the process that is running Windows Explorer, and then click the Restart button that is located in the bottom right corner of your screen.

Step 3: At this point, check to see if the Desktop Window Manager is using a lot of memory.

Closing Lines:

That wraps it up! You should have resolved the issue with Desktop Windows Manager's high CPU or memory issue. If you have any questions or suggestions make sure to leave them in the comments section below. Also, for more insightful tech guides and updates subscribe to our newsletter.