Are you tired of your computer running slow due to high disk usage? This article provides quick and easy solutions to fix 100% disk usage in Windows 10 Task Manager.
What is 100% Disk Usage Error?
The 100% Disk Usage Error is a common issue encountered by Windows 10 users. This error occurs when the system’s disk usage reaches 100%, causing the computer to slow down significantly. This error can occur due to several reasons, such as an outdated operating system, malware infections, faulty hardware components, and background processes consuming too much CPU and disk resources. The high disk usage error can cause the computer to become unresponsive and even crash. Therefore, it is essential to fix this error as soon as possible. In the following sections, we will discuss some effective solutions to resolve this error and optimize your system’s performance.
Common Causes of 100% Disk Usage Error
- Identify the process causing the high disk usage:
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc
- Select the Processes tab
- Sort the processes by Disk usage
- Identify the process(es) with the highest disk usage
- Disable Windows Search:
- Open Services by pressing Win+R and typing services.msc
- Scroll down to and double-click on Windows Search
- Select Stop to stop the service
- Change the Startup type to Disabled
- Click OK to save changes
- Turn off Superfetch:
- Open Services by pressing Win+R and typing services.msc
- Scroll down to and double-click on Superfetch
- Select Stop to stop the service
- Change the Startup type to Disabled
- Click OK to save changes
- Disable Windows Tips:
- Open Settings by pressing Win+I
- Select System
- Select Notifications & actions
- Toggle off Show me tips about Windows
- Reset Virtual Memory:
- Open Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu
- Select System and Security
- Select System
- Select Advanced system settings
- Select the Advanced tab
- Under Performance, select Settings
- Select the Advanced tab
- Under Virtual memory, select Change
- Uncheck Automatically manage paging file size for all drives
- Select the Custom size option
- Set the Initial size and Maximum size to the same value (recommended: the size of your installed RAM in MB)
- Select Set and then OK
How to Check for 100% Disk Usage Error?
If your computer is running slow or freezing, it could be due to high disk usage. To check if your disk usage is at 100%, open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc and clicking on the Performance tab. Look for the Disk section and if it shows 100% usage consistently, then you have a problem. To determine which program is causing the high disk usage, click on the Processes tab and sort by Disk. The program at the top of the list is the culprit. You can then close that program or uninstall it if it’s not essential. Another solution is to disable Superfetch and Windows Search services. These services can cause high disk usage, so disabling them could fix the issue.
Quick Fixes for 100% Disk Usage Error in Windows 10
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc
- Click on the Services tab
- Find Windows Search in the list of services
- Right-click on it and select Properties
- In the Startup type drop-down menu, select Disabled
- Click OK and restart your computer
Disable Superfetch
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc
- Click on the Services tab
- Find Superfetch in the list of services
- Right-click on it and select Properties
- In the Startup type drop-down menu, select Disabled
- Click OK and restart your computer
Change Your Power Settings
- Click on the Start button and select Settings
- Select System
- Select Power & sleep
- Click on Additional power settings
- Select High performance
- Restart your computer
Update Your Device Drivers
- Open Device Manager by pressing Windows Key + X and selecting Device Manager from the menu
- Expand the category for the device with the driver you want to update
- Right-click on the device and select Update Driver Software
- Select Search automatically for updated driver software
- Follow the prompts to download and install any available updates
- Restart your computer
Disable Antivirus Software
- Open your antivirus software
- Find the option to disable or turn off the software
- Follow the prompts to complete the process
- Restart your computer
Advanced Solutions to Fix 100% Disk Usage Error
If you’ve tried the basic solutions but are still experiencing 100% disk usage in Windows 10, don’t panic! There are a few advanced solutions that you can try to fix this issue.
1. Disable Windows Search: This feature can sometimes cause high disk usage. Press Windows key + R, type “services.msc” and hit Enter. Look for “Windows Search” in the list, right-click it, and select “Properties.” Set the startup type to “Disabled” and click “Stop.”
2. Disable Superfetch: This service is designed to improve system performance, but it can also cause high disk usage. Repeat the above process for “Superfetch” and set the startup type to “Disabled.”
3. Adjust Virtual Memory: Go to System Properties > Advanced > Performance > Settings > Advanced > Virtual Memory > Change. Uncheck “Automatically manage paging file size for all drives” and select “Custom size.” Set the initial size and maximum size according to your system requirements.
By following these advanced solutions, you should be able to fix the 100% disk usage error and improve your system’s performance.
Preventative Measures to Avoid 100% Disk Usage Error
| Preventative Measures |
|---|
| 1. Uninstall Unnecessary Programs |
| 2. Disable Windows Search |
| 3. Disable Superfetch |
| 4. Disable Background Apps |
| 5. Update Drivers |
| 6. Run Disk Cleanup |
| 7. Disable Antivirus Scans |
| 8. Check for Malware |
| 9. Add More RAM |
Wallace Kahn is an insightful technology writer for helptechportal.com, specializing in wearable tech and smart devices. With a degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering, Wallace’s writing combines technical knowledge with a passion for innovation. When not covering the latest tech gadgets, Wallace enjoys cycling and experimenting with home automation.