How to Check CPU Usage on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 18, 2025

Ever feel like your Windows 11 PC is running slow, overheating, or making too much fan noise? One of the first things you should check is your CPU usage. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of your computer, and if it’s overloaded, performance suffers.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you multiple ways to check CPU usage on Windows 11 — from built-in tools like Task Manager and Resource Monitor to advanced methods for power users.

Key Takeaways

  • CPU usage shows how much processing power your computer is currently using.

  • You can check it with Task Manager, Resource Monitor, Performance Monitor, or Command Prompt.

  • High CPU usage often signals background apps, malware, or driver issues.

  • Monitoring CPU helps you improve performance and extend hardware life.

Why Should You Monitor CPU Usage?

Checking CPU usage is not just for tech geeks — it’s essential for everyone.

  • Troubleshoot slowdowns — Find out if apps are hogging resources.

  • Prevent overheating — High usage leads to excess heat and fan noise.

  • Optimize performance — Identify unnecessary background tasks.

  • Detect malware — Some malicious programs silently max out CPU.

Method 1: Check CPU Usage with Task Manager

The Task Manager is the quickest way to view CPU usage.

Steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc (or Ctrl + Alt + Delete → Task Manager).

  2. Click the Performance tab.

  3. Select CPU from the left sidebar.

  4. You’ll see:

    • Current CPU usage percentage.

    • CPU speed (in GHz).

    • Number of cores and logical processors.

    • Usage history graph.

💡 Pro Tip: Switch to the Processes tab to see which apps are using the most CPU.

Method 2: Use the System Tray Performance Overlay

Windows 11’s Xbox Game Bar lets you see CPU usage in real time.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + G to open Game Bar.

  2. Click the Performance widget.

  3. Check CPU usage percentage in the overlay.

  4. Pin it to your desktop to monitor usage while gaming or multitasking.

Method 3: Monitor CPU with Resource Monitor

For more detailed stats, use Resource Monitor.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type resmon, and hit Enter.

  2. Go to the CPU tab.

  3. You’ll see:

    • CPU usage per process.

    • Service-related CPU activity.

    • Graphs for total CPU usage.

Method 4: Check CPU Usage with Performance Monitor

Performance Monitor is for advanced users who want deep insights.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type perfmon, and hit Enter.

  2. In the left panel, select Performance Monitor.

  3. Click the green + button to add counters.

  4. Choose Processor → % Processor Time.

  5. Now you can track CPU usage over time.

Method 5: Use Command Prompt or PowerShell

If you like text-based tools, try this method.

Steps (Command Prompt):

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

  2. Type:

    wmic cpu get loadpercentage

  3. Press Enter to see CPU usage.

Steps (PowerShell):

  1. Open Windows PowerShell.

  2. Type:

    Get-Counter '\Processor(_Total)\% Processor Time'

  3. Press Enter — it will display CPU usage.

Method 6: Use Third-Party Tools

Some users prefer third-party apps for real-time monitoring. Popular options include:

  • HWMonitor — Tracks CPU, GPU, and temperature.

  • Core Temp — Shows CPU temperature and per-core usage.

  • MSI Afterburner — Great for gamers monitoring CPU + GPU.

Normal vs. High CPU Usage

CPU Usage Level Meaning
0–20% Normal when idle or browsing.
20–50% Normal multitasking and light gaming.
50–80% Heavy workloads (video editing, big apps).
80–100% Overloaded — may cause lag, crashes, or heating.

Causes of High CPU Usage in Windows 11

If your CPU is constantly near 100%, check for:

  • Too many background apps.

  • Windows updates running.

  • Outdated drivers or firmware.

  • Malware or viruses.

  • Heavy apps (video editing, gaming, virtualization).

  • Faulty programs stuck in loops.

How to Fix High CPU Usage

If you notice unusually high CPU usage, try these fixes:

  1. Close unnecessary apps from Task Manager.

  2. Disable startup programs:

    • Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable unused apps.

  3. Update drivers via Windows Update or manufacturer’s site.

  4. Scan for malware with Windows Security or antivirus software.

  5. Adjust Power Settings:

    • Control Panel → Power Options → Balanced mode.

  6. Reinstall faulty software if a single app causes spikes.

Advanced Tip: Track CPU Usage Over Time

If you want long-term monitoring:

  • Use Performance Monitor to log CPU activity.

  • Install third-party software like HWInfo64 for detailed reporting.

This helps identify patterns (e.g., CPU spikes at startup or when running specific programs).

Conclusion

Monitoring CPU usage on Windows 11 is essential for maintaining smooth performance. You can quickly check it with Task Manager, dive deeper with Resource Monitor, or use advanced tools like Performance Monitor and PowerShell.

If CPU usage is consistently high, take steps to close background apps, update drivers, or scan for malware. By keeping an eye on your CPU, you’ll extend your computer’s lifespan and improve performance.

FAQs

1. What is normal CPU usage on Windows 11?
Around 5–20% when idle and 20–50% during light tasks. Heavy apps may push it higher temporarily.

2. How do I lower CPU usage?
Close background apps, disable startup programs, update drivers, and scan for malware.

3. Can high CPU usage damage my computer?
Not directly, but sustained 100% usage can cause overheating and reduce hardware lifespan.

4. How can I monitor CPU temperature along with usage?
Use third-party tools like Core Temp, HWMonitor, or HWInfo64.

5. Is 100% CPU usage always bad?
Not necessarily — short spikes are normal, but constant 100% usage means something needs fixing.

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