Windows Defender is Microsoft default and a most solid line of defence when it comes to a consumer’s cyber-protection. However, those of you running Windows 10 on older PCs may notice that Windows Defender ‘s max CPU usage for scans can be quite high at times.
If that is the case, then knowing how to reduce the CPU usage may help you in the long run.
Use PowerShell to change Windows Defender’s max CPU usage
This is an easy procedure, but care must be taken as you are using PowerShell with administrator rights
- Open PowerShell with administrative rights
- Type in or copy-paste the following command:
- Get-MpPreference | select ScanAvgCPULoadFactor
- By doing this, you will display the current CPU usage percentage limit for Windows Defender.
- To change the value, type in or copy-paste the following command:
- Set-MpPreference -ScanAvgCPULoadFactor <percentage>
Keep note that the value of <percentage> needs to be between 5 and 100.
If you set the percentage value to 0, it will remove the CPU limit and allow Windows Defender to use up even 100% of it. This is not recommended as it can lead to unresponsive apps, freezing and even overheating.
Change Windows Defender max CPU usage using registries
- Press Win + R
- Type in regedit.exe
- This will open the Registry Editor
- Go to the following Registry key:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREPoliciesMicrosoftWindows DefenderScan
- Edit or make a new 32-bit DWORD value AvgCPULoadFactor
- Switch the value data editor to Decimal
- Set the value data to a value of 5 to 100
If you want to undo the change, simply delete the DWORD you created.
Change Windows Defender max CPU usage using Group Policy
- Press Win + R
- Type in gpedit.msc
- The Group Policy Editor will open
- Go to Computer Configuration
- Go to Administrative Templates/Windows Components/Microsoft Defender Antivirus/Scan
- Double-click on the Specify the maximum percentage of CPU utilization during a scan policy
- Enable it
- Enter the desired CPU limit under Specify the maximum percentage of CPU utilization during a scan
- Select Apply
- Click OK
A final note
By following these steps, you can manage the average CPU usage that your Windows Defender uses up during scans.
For more information contact Ryan Danvers of ABACON IT on 072 601 2858
Windows 11 Upgrade - Will it work on your lapop?
So, you’re wondering about Windows 11, the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system. It looks snazzy and has some neat features. But can your current laptop actually run it? Don’t worry, you don’t need a degree in IT to figure this out! We at abacon IT in Cape Town are here to help you understand the basics.
Upgrading your laptop to Windows 11 can give it a new lease on life. However, Windows 11 has certain system requirements. These are the minimum specifications your laptop needs to have to run the software smoothly. Think of it like needing the right ingredients for a recipe – without them, it just won’t work properly.
One of the most important parts is your laptop’s processor, often called the CPU (Central Processing Unit). This is the “brain” of your computer. Windows 11 needs a fairly recent and capable CPU to function well.
Which Processors Work with Windows 11?
Here’s a simplified look at the processors that are generally compatible:
Intel Processors:
- Generally, Windows 11 requires an 8th-generation Intel Core processor or newer. You might see names like “Intel Core i5-8xxx” or “Intel Core i7-11xxx.” The first number after the “i” (or “i3”) usually indicates the generation. So, an “i5-8250u” is an 8th-generation processor.
- Intel also has its Pentium and Celeron processors. For Windows 11, only certain newer models are compatible.
AMD Processors:
- For AMD, Windows 11 requires Ryzen 2000 Series and newer. You’ll see names like “AMD Ryzen 5 2xxx” or “AMD Ryzen 7 5xxx”. Again, the first number after “Ryzen” indicates the series.
- AMD also has Athlon processors. Similar to Intel’s Pentium and Celeron, only specific newer Athlon models will work with Windows 11.
Important Note: This is a general guideline. There can be exceptions, so it’s always best to double-check your specific processor.
How to Find Out Which Processor Your Laptop Has
Don’t fret, Windows makes it pretty easy to see what CPU is inside your laptop:
- Right-click the Start Button: This is the Windows logo (usually in the bottom-left corner of your screen).
- Select “System”: A new window will pop up with information about your computer.
- Look for “Processor”: You’ll find this listed under the “Device specifications” section. It will tell you the name of your processor, including the manufacturer (Intel or AMD) and the model number, which usually indicates the generation or series.
Once you have this information, you can compare it to the general lists above.
Other Important Bits for Windows 11
Besides the processor, there are a few other things Windows 11 needs:
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Consider this your laptop’s short-term memory. Windows 11 requires at least 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM. More is always better for smoother performance. Instead, consider 16 gigabytes (GB).
- Storage: To install Windows 11, you’ll need at least 64 GB of free space on your hard drive or SSD (Solid-State Drive). An SSD generally makes your computer much faster.
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module): This is a security feature. Most modern laptops have this, but it’s worth checking. You can usually find information on how to check for TPM 2.0 in your laptop’s BIOS settings (you might need to consult your laptop manufacturer’s website for instructions on accessing this).
- Graphics Card: Your graphics card needs to be compatible with DirectX 12 or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver. Most reasonably recent graphics cards will meet this requirement.
- Display: You’ll need a screen with a resolution of at least 720p (HD).
Still Not Sure? We Can Help!
Figuring out all these technical details can be daunting. If you’re still unsure whether your laptop is ready for Windows 11, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at abacon IT in Cape Town.
Our friendly team can quickly assess your system and give you straightforward advice. We’re here to help your SME thrive with reliable IT solutions! Contact us at 072-601-2858 or email info@abacon.co.za, and we will call you back.
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