Skype may sometimes turn into a computer resource vampire. When that happens, CPU and memory usage goes through the roof. Your computer becomes sluggish and unresponsive, and it may even freeze at times. Let’s explore what’s causing this problem and how you can fix it.
Troubleshooting Skype High CPU Usage on PC
Keep in mind that high CPU consumption may occur during the initial launch. The app is trying to catch up on history and check for updates. By the way, if you’re not running the newest Skype version, install the latest update and check if the high CPU usage problem persists.
Close Background Apps
Some of the programs running in the background may interfere with Skype. Several users confirmed that disabling programs that enhance the overall system performance solved the problem.
For example, it seems that Waves MaxxAudio and Killer Control Center often turn Skype into a resource-hogging program. This is because system enhancement programs change how your apps and system behave to improve audio or video performance.
On the other hand, if another app uses your mic and camera, that could force Skype to compete for resources with that program.
- Launch the Task Manager and click on the Processes tab.
- Then right-click on the apps and processes you want to close and select End task.
- Check if Skype uses less CPU power now.
Set Visual Effects to Best Performance
Visual effects and animations may sometimes put a strain on your computer hardware. Adjust your settings for the best performance and check if Skype still uses too much CPU power.
- Type ‘adjust performance‘ in the Windows Search bar. Double-click on the first result.
- Then click on the Visual Effects tab.
- Check the Adjust for the best performance checkbox.
- Restart Skype and check the CPU usage reports.
Reinstall Skype
If the issue persists, try installing a fresh copy of Skype. Go to Control Panel, select Uninstall a program and select Skype. Alternatively, you can remove Skype from Apps & Settings.
Once the program is uninstalled, restart your computer. Then download and install Skype again.
Conclusion
If Skype has to compete with other programs for system resources, that could lead to high CPU usage issues. Disable background programs, update your Skype app and check the results. Hit the comments below and let us know if you managed to troubleshoot this problem.
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