How to Adjust CPU Usage

1. Use Task Manager to determine your average CPU usage. Press 'Control,' 'Alt' and 'Delete' simultaneously to bring up Task Manager. Go to the 'Performance' tab. The first graph shows you your computer's CPU usage.
2. Go to the 'Processes' tab and click on the 'User Name' column header to sort the processes by user. If you are the only user logged in on the computer, then you should see a number of processes with your name and others labeled with 'System.' Look over the list of processes running under your name to see if they are all programs you opened or if a number of programs are running in the background. Many applications automatically start up when you load Windows, and they can use a substantial amount of processing power.
3. Go to 'Start,' then type in 'Msconfig.exe' at the 'Search' box and press 'OK.' Go to the 'Startup' tab. This list contains all of the applications that are running when your computer starts. You will not hurt the computer by unchecking any of these applications, as processes that Windows needs to function are contained in another tab. Examine the list for programs that you know you need on start up and leave those alone. Uncheck everything else, press 'Apply,' then 'OK.' Restart your computer.
4. Check Task Manager to see if your overall CPU usage has gone down. Go to 'Start' and go to 'Control Panel.' Select 'Performance Information and Tools.' If you do not see this option you might need to type it into the search box.
5. Choose 'Adjust Visual Effects.' Click 'Adjust for Best Performance' or 'Let Windows Choose What's Best For My Computer.' If you are running all of the visual effects in Windows, it can have a drastic effect on your computer's performance, especially in systems that are not top end. You can completely remove all visual effects with the first option or allow Windows to turn off certain aspects of visual effects for a less dramatic change.