Avast Antivirus is one of the most popular antivirus software out there, well-regarded for its comprehensive security features.
However, users sometimes experience an issue where Avast uses up to 50% of their CPU, significantly slowing down the system.
If you’re facing this problem, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore why this occurs and offer step-by-step solutions to resolve the issue.
Causes of Avast Using 50 CPU
Several factors could lead to Avast using a high percentage of your CPU. Here are the common ones:
1. Avast Screensaver Scanning: Sometimes, Avast may continue scanning even after your PC goes into screensaver mode, leading to high CPU usage.
2. Avast Behavior Shield: This feature monitors your computer in real-time for suspicious behavior, but it can sometimes lead to excessive CPU usage.
3. Background Updates: If Avast is updating its virus definitions or running a routine check in the background, it might cause a temporary spike in CPU usage.
Solution to Fix Avast Using 50 CPU
Now that we understand the causes, let’s dive into the solutions. Here are step-by-step instructions to help you reduce the high CPU usage by Avast:
Solution 1. Disable Avast Screensaver Scanning
Step 1: Right-click any file and select ‘Scan selected items for viruses’.
Step 2: A new window will open showing the scan results. If ‘Avast screensaver’ is in the list and shows ‘Scanning’ even though it isn’t, that’s your issue.
Step 3: Click on ‘Stop’ beside Avast screensaver, and it should stop the unnecessary scanning, freeing up your CPU.
Solution 2. Control Avast Behavior Shield
Open Avast user interface and go to ‘Menu > Settings > Protection’.
Step 1: In the ‘Core Shields’ section, scroll down to ‘Configure shield settings’.
Step 2: In the ‘Behavior Shield’ tab, untick the ‘Monitor the system for unusual behavior’ box.
Step 3: Restart your computer to apply these changes.
Solution 3. Schedule Background Updates
Step 1: Open Avast user interface and go to ‘Menu > Settings > Update’.
Step 2: In the ‘Virus Definitions’ and ‘Program’ sections, change updates from ‘Automatic’ to ‘Ask when update is available’.
Step 3: This way, you can schedule updates when you’re not using your computer, preventing Avast from hogging the CPU during active hours.
Solution 4. Run a Malware Check
Step 1: Download and install a reliable anti-malware tool.
Step 2: Run a thorough system scan to identify and remove potential malware.
Solution 5. Optimizing Your Computer’s Performance
Alongside checking Avast for issues, it’s also a good idea to optimize your computer’s overall performance
Step 1: Close unnecessary applications when not in use to free up your system resources.
Step 2: Regularly update your OS and software to ensure optimal performance and security.
Step 3: Regularly clean up your hard disk using built-in tools like Disk Cleanup for Windows.
Solution 6. Repairing Avast Installation
Sometimes, a corrupted Avast installation can cause the high CPU usage problem. In such a case, repairing the software might resolve the issue:
Step 1: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Step 2: Find Avast in the list, click it, then click ‘Repair’.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process, then restart your computer.
Solution 7. Reinstalling Avast Antivirus
If all else fails, reinstalling Avast can help. It ensures any corrupted files get replaced with fresh ones:
Step 1: Uninstall Avast via Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program.
Step 2: Download the latest version from the official Avast website and install it.
Conclusion
High CPU usage by Avast can be a nuisance, potentially slowing down your PC and disrupting your workflow.
But by following the steps above, you should be able to manage Avast’s CPU usage effectively, ensuring your computer runs smoothly without compromising your digital security.
