Windows 7 issues: Performance problems as CPU usage peaks

Performance problems are not new to Windows 7; troubleshooting them, however, involves a routine check of several basic parameters ranging from antivirus software to driver updates. One of the frequently encountered issues is that of the CPU usage suddenly peaking to 100% and then constantly indicating a full system usage, when hardly a few programs are running. This eventually causes a slow down in the performance, leading to unresponsive programs.


To resolve the issue you’ll first have to identify the troublesome application or process. This can be done using the Task Manager’s resource monitor or even the event viewer. If you are able to find the erratic program, the next step could be to uninstall or stop the program, provided your work doesn’t suffer much.


Programs such as Windows Media Player Network Sharing Service ( wmpnetwk.exe), SB Audigy 2, and even the printer spooler service (spoolsv.exe) have been reported to consume 100% of CPU time.


While the first two programs could be switched off at will, the spooler service will have to be restarted if you need the printer. Remember to first switch off the printer, stop the service, clear the print queue, and then restart the spooler service before using the printer.


Erroneous programs at times tend to cause memory leaks, which over a period of time cause the system to slow down and eventually crash due to insufficient memory. The AVG antivirus software has been reported to cause such problems. In case you are using AVG, try replacing it with another free antivirus software like Microsoft’s Security Essentials suite and check if it makes a difference.


Watch out for cookies and malware that may be running in the background by regularly scanning the system using your antivirus software. Allowing devices to automatically switch off to save power too may cut the unwanted drain of resources.