When your Windows computer starts running slowly or the fan speed suddenly increases, checking the Task Manager often reveals that the “Service Host: Local System” is consuming a lot of CPU resources.
This common issue can drastically reduce your system’s performance. But what causes it, and more importantly, how can you fix it? Let’s delve into the details.
What is Service Host: Local System?
Service Host: Local System is an umbrella service comprising many smaller Windows services running in the background.
It manages system processes such as Windows Auto Update, Network Connection Broker, and DHCP Client, among others. Therefore, it’s a necessary component of your system, but it should not be causing high CPU usage.
Causes of High CPU Usage by Service Host: Local System
Windows Updates: Sometimes, Service Host: Local System may consume high CPU resources when Windows is installing updates or when an update process is stuck.
Network Restricted: Network Restricted is a specific type of Service Host: Local System that can cause high CPU usage. This issue typically occurs when there are problems with the network settings or drivers.
Software Incompatibility: Incompatible software or drivers can cause high CPU usage issues, especially after installing new applications or drivers.
Solutions to Fix High CPU Usage by Service Host: Local System
Here are the solutions to fix this issue:
Solution 1: Disable Superfetch
Superfetch, also known as SysMain in later versions of Windows, helps to decrease boot time. However, it can sometimes cause high CPU usage.
Step 1: Press Win + R, type in “services.msc” and press Enter.
Step 2: Scroll down and find ‘Superfetch’ or ‘SysMain,’ then right-click and select ‘Stop.’
Step 3: To permanently disable Superfetch, right-click again, select ‘Properties,’ then ‘Disabled’ from the dropdown menu in ‘Startup type.’ Click ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK.’
Solution 2: Check for Windows Updates
Step 1: Press Win + I to open Settings.
Step 2: Click on ‘Update & Security.’
Step 3: Click ‘Check for updates.’ If any updates are available, let them install and then restart your computer.
Solution 3: Run System Maintenance Troubleshooter
Step 1: Press Win + R, type in “msdt.exe -id MaintenanceDiagnostic” and press Enter.
Step 2: In the window that pops up, click ‘Next’ to run the troubleshooter.
Solution 4: Run DISM and SFC Commands
Step 1: Right-click on the Start button and select ‘Command Prompt (Admin).’
Step 2: Type “DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth” and press Enter.
Step 3: Once DISM completes, type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter. Wait for the process to finish.
Conclusion
High CPU usage by the Service Host: Local System is a common issue in Windows that can hamper your system’s performance. By identifying the cause and applying the appropriate fix, you can resolve this problem and restore your computer’s normal functioning.
