Why is my antimalware service executable always running?
Windows Defender uses the Antimalware Service Executable or MsMpEng (MsMpEng.exe) process to execute its functions. However, a number of Windows users have noted that the Antimalware Service Executable (MsMpEng) sometimes shows high CPU usage. Show
Learn how to fix
Windows Defender's Antimalware Service Executable (MsMpEng.exe), create high CPU usage, and make your computer work properly again. What is Antimalware Service Executable?Antimalware service executable (MsMpEng) is a Windows Security process that executes real-time protection against malware. Also known as msmpeng.exe, the antimalware service executable Windows process runs in the background, so it can scan files and programs from time to time. When an antimalware service executable detects a virus or other malicious attacks, it deletes them or quarantines them. Why does Antimalware Service Executable use High CPU
However, many user reports on Microsoft support forums have shown that sometimes the MsMpEng.exe can also cause disproportionately high CPU and Memory usage. Some users also reported experiencing MsMpEng.exe high disk usage. The main reason that antimalware service executable uses too much CPU is that it runs constantly in the background to provide:
In addition, the antimalware service executable uses too much CPU because it scans its own folder - C:\Program Files\Windows Defender. However, other possible causes of the Antimalware Service Executable (MsMpEng) using high CPU also include:
So, stopping antimalware service executable from scanning its own folder is one of the ways you can make it use less CPU. How to Fix High CPU Usage By MsMpEng.exe in Windows 10Use the following solutions to fix high CPU usage by the Antimalware Service Executable. Our methods were written using the latest Windows 10 update. Fix #1: Scan your Computer for MalwareWe recommend running a security scan to ensure that your system is not currently infected by malware. Some malicious scripts and applications may be able to cause Windows Defender memory usage to go up. If you notice high CPU and disk usage, you may also be the victim of a cyberattack. We’ll use the accessible and built-in Windows Defender to conduct a system scan. However, a more focused third-party antivirus software may work better. Use the following steps to scan your PC for malware using Windows Defender:
Fix #2: Change Windows Defender Scheduling settingsA number of Windows users who report high CPU usage by MsMpEng.exe say it occurs during a full system scan. To sort these issues out, you can reschedule the scan to occur when you’re not using your PC:
This process will re-schedule your PC’s Windows Defender to function as per your preference. Restart your PC and see if the Antimalware Service Executable is still using high CPU. FIX #3: Add Antimalware Service Executable to the Windows Defender’s exclusion listWhen scanning your PC, Windows Defender checks all the files – including itself - which is a common cause of system lag. You exclude Windows defender from scanning
itself by simply adding it to the exclusion list.
This process will exclude the Antimalware Service Executable folder from the scan. This method doesn't remove the Antimalware Service Executable, but rather fixes a known issue with the scans Windows Defender conducts while in real-time protection mode. Fix #4: Disable Windows Defender ServiceIf the high CPU usage by MsMpEng problem persists, you may need to disable the Antimalware Service Executable in Windows 10. Note that disabling the Windows Defender may leave you vulnerable to many cyber-attacks if you don't have a third-party antivirus program installed. Once you're ready, learn how to turn off Antimalware Service Executable entirely using the step-by-step instructions below. To disable Windows Defender (through the registry editor):
Once again, let us remind you that it's risky to operate your device without having an antivirus application installed. You may become vulnerable to malware, hackers, and other types of cyberattacks. We highly recommend using Malwarebytes if you need a free and lightweight solution. We also offer Malwarebytes Premium for the best market price. Fix #5: Roll Back Windows Defender Definition UpdatesOn rare occasions, Windows Defender may acquire a bad definition update that causes certain Windows 10 files to be detected as viruses. This can easily overload your system if a large amount of false positives arise at once. Here's how to remove a bad definition update for Windows Defender.
Wrapping UpWindows Defender is an important tool because it comes free with your Windows operating system. However, it can put a drain on your system’s CPU. If you carefully follow the steps we’ve described in this article, you’ll take control of the Antimalware Service Executable on your PC and keep your computer running at full speed. Did you find this article informative and helpful? Please send this master guide to everyone you work with to enhance your team’s productivity further. Please return to our website for deals on Microsoft Office software and more helpful guides and articles related to Microsoft’s most popular productivity suite. One more thingWould you like to receive promotions, deals, and discounts to get our products for the best price? Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter by entering your email address below! Receive the latest technology news in your inbox and be the first to read our tips to become more productive. Editor's Recommendations> What is Msmpeng.exe and Should You Remove It Is it OK to disable antimalware service executable?It's completely okay to disable the process and even Microsoft Defender. While it's built in, you're not required to use it. Before you do this, though, install an alternative antivirus tool; otherwise, you're leaving your system vulnerable.
Why is antimalware Service executable taking up all my CPU?Why is Antimalware Service Executable Using So Much? Antimalware service executable high disk CPU is mostly caused by the real-time feature that can constantly scan files, connections, and other related applications in real-time.
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