ByWhile using the Windows operating system, many times users face the problem of High CPU Usage related to the Shell Infrastructure Host. This process (`sihost.exe`) is related to the visual elements and UI of Windows, but when it starts using more CPU resources, it can slow down the system. In this article, we will explain in detail the 10 most effective ways to fix Shell Infrastructure Host’s high CPU usage.
1. Restart the system
Sometimes this problem occurs due to temporary disturbances. First of all, we can check if the problem persists by restarting the computer once. This is a basic but effective method.
2. Check for Windows Update
Outdated or incomplete Windows updates can also cause this problem.
How to check:
Go to Start Menu > Settings > Windows Update
Click on “Check for updates.”
If any update is available, download and install it
Restart the system
3. Update the graphics driver
Sometimes the Shell Infrastructure Host process shows high CPU usage because the graphics driver is out of date.
To update the driver:
Open Device Manager
Click on Display adapters
Right-click on your graphics card and select “Update driver.”
Select “Search automatically for drivers.”
4. Optimize visual effects
Windows’ visual effects can also put a load on this process.
To change visual settings:
Click on Start, type “sysdm.cpl” and press Enter
Go to Advanced tab > Performance > Settings
Select “Adjust for best performance.”
Click on Apply and OK
5. Troubleshoot by performing a clean boot
Clean Boot lets you know if any third-party app is affecting this process.
To perform a clean boot:
Type “msconfig by pressing Windows + R
Go to the Services tab, select “Hide all Microsoft services,” and disable the rest
Go to the Startup tab > Open Task Manager and disable all startup items
Click OK and restart the computer
6. Disable Scheduled Tasks from Task Scheduler
Some background tasks can trigger Shell Infrastructure Host.
To disable:
Open taskschd.msc by pressing Windows + R
Identify suspicious tasks by going to the Task Scheduler Library
Right-click on it and select “Disable.”
7. Run SFC and DISM scan
System file corruption can also be the reason for high CPU usage.
SFC Scan:
“`sh
sfc /scannow
“`
DISM Scan:
“`sh
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
“`
Run these commands one by one in Command Prompt (Admin)
8. Check Windows Event Viewer
Event Viewer can let you know which process is triggering `sihost.exe`.
Open “Event Viewer” by pressing Windows + X
Check Errors and Warnings in Windows Logs > System/Application
9. Close Unnecessary Background Apps
Some unnecessary applications may force the Shell Infrastructure Host to excessive resource usage.
To turn it off:
Go to Settings > Apps > Startup
Turn off unnecessary apps
Turn off background apps in Task Manager
10. Reset or Clean Install Windows
If all the above steps fail to fix the problem, the last option is to reset or Clean Install Windows.
To Reset:
Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC
Select “Keep my files” or “Remove everything.”
This method should be used as a last resort.
Conclusion
The high CPU usage problem associated with Shell Infrastructure Host can be annoying, but it can be effectively handled with all the above steps. If you are technically comfortable, you can restore your system’s performance by following these steps.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Shell Infrastructure Host High CPU Usage
Q1: What is Shell Infrastructure Host?
Answer:
Shell Infrastructure Host (called `sihost.exe`) is an essential Windows system process that manages visual elements such as the Start Menu, Taskbar transparency, notifications, etc. It is present in both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Q2: Why is Shell Infrastructure Host consuming so much CPU on my system?
Answer:
There could be many reasons for this, such as:
Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers
Pending Windows updates
Too many visual effects are active
A background app or task adds to the load
Corrupt system files
Q3: Can I close sihost.exe?
Answer:
No, `sihost.exe` is an essential Windows system file. Closing it may cause your system to crash or UI elements to stop working. It is not safe to close it.
Q4: What is the most effective way to fix Shell Infrastructure Host-related problems?
Answer:
Running System File Checker (SFC) and DISM scan, updating drivers, and updating Windows are among the most effective ways. If this does not resolve the issue, a clean boot or system reset may be helpful.
Q.5: Does High CPU Usage affect computer speed?
Answer:
Yes, when `Shell Infrastructure Host` uses too many CPU resources, your computer may slow down, freeze, or the fan may run too loudly.
Q.6: Can a third-party app cause this issue?
Answer:
Yes, sometimes a third-party app or background program affects `sihost.exe` and increases the CPU load. So it is important to check by doing a Clean Boot.
Q.7: Does a CPU issue related to Shell Infrastructure Host persist forever?
Answer:
No, it may be a temporary issue. If it persists, it is necessary to apply the above-mentioned measures.
