How to Fix High CPU Usage by Microsoft Edge?

If Microsoft Edge is consuming a significant amount of CPU resources, it is typically because the browser or its specific features are using a lot of processing power. This usually happens when Edge is running multiple tasks, which can significantly impact CPU performance.

Mostly, this issue occurs when unnecessary features, such as Startup Boost, are enabled, or when the browser is running with extensions active in the background. Other potential causes can include having too many active extensions, corrupted browser cache data, or even malware that may be affecting the browser.

Since we’ve discussed the causes, let’s have a look at the solutions to this issue.

1. Configure Microsoft Edge Settings

This solution is intended for users experiencing high CPU usage even when Microsoft Edge is not in use. If you encounter this issue while actively using Microsoft Edge, consider trying other methods.

Certain settings can be either helpful or irrelevant, depending on the user and system specifications. If your system has low specifications, you may need to adjust a few settings to reduce CPU and memory consumption. However, even if you have high system specifications, it is still recommended to configure these settings to determine if they are causing the issue.

For example, turning off features such as “Startup Boost” and “Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed” can significantly reduce CPU consumption. Startup Boost allows Microsoft Edge to run in the background for faster startups. After configuring these settings, you should notice an improvement in CPU usage.

1. Click the three dots in the top-right corner and select Settings.
2. Select System and Performance from the left sidebar.
3. Disable the following settings: Startup Boost and Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed.
4. Once done, verify if this resolves the issue. If not, proceed with the following methods.

2. Update the Browser and Windows

Outdated versions of Windows and browsers often contain bugs that could cause Microsoft Edge to consume excessive amounts of CPU.

Newer versions of the browser and Windows include bug fixes, performance optimizations, and better resource management. By updating both, you ensure compatibility and improvements in stability, which should help reduce CPU consumption.

1. Open Microsoft Edge, click the three dots in the top-right corner, and select Settings.
2. Select About Microsoft Edge from the left sidebar.
3. If the About Page shows Microsoft Edge is up to date, then no action is needed. If an update is available, simply click Download and Install to proceed.
4. For Windows Updates, click the Start Menu and type Check for updates.
5. Press Enter to open the Windows Update settings.
6. Click Check for updates. If updates are found, click Download and Install.
7. Once done, see if this resolves the issue.

3. Reset the Browser

Resetting the browser will disable the extensions and reset the settings to default. Having too many extensions active can increase CPU and memory consumption. Therefore, it’s advisable to reset Microsoft Edge’s settings to default to determine if this resolves the issue.

1. In the browser, select Settings by clicking the three dots in the top-right corner.
2. Select Reset Settings from the left and click Restore settings to their default values.
3. Click Reset to confirm the action.
4. Once done, check if Microsoft Edge is still consuming excessive CPU resources.

4. Scan for Malware

Malware or malicious files can exploit system resources, leading to excessive CPU consumption. Running a full system scan ensures that malware or any malicious files that might be affecting the browser’s performance are removed.

1. Open Settings by pressing the Win + I keys.
2. Go to Privacy & Security from the left, then click Windows Security.
3. Click Open Windows Security.
4. Select Virus & Threat Protection. Click Scan options and then select Full Scan.
5. Click Scan Now to proceed.
6. Once completed, check if the high CPU consumption issue is resolved.

5. Enable Efficiency Mode

Efficiency Mode helps reduce high CPU consumption by managing background activities in the browser, such as background tab processes, video playback, and animations, more efficiently.

When this feature is enabled, it prioritizes tasks, freeing up system resources and reducing CPU usage, particularly during multitasking. To enable Efficiency Mode, follow these steps:

1. Open Microsoft Edge and click the three dots in the top-right corner.
2. Select Settings from the options.
3. Go to System & Performance from the left sidebar.
4. Enable Efficiency Mode under Optimize Performance.
5. Once done, check if this resolves the issue.

Lastly, if the problem persists, consider switching to an alternative browser. We have a complete guide on the best browsers for 2024, where you can select the one that best suits your needs.