Fix Antimalware Service Executable High Memory Issue
Many Windows users find that the "Antimalware Service Executable" (MsMpEng.exe) process causes high memory and CPU usage, affecting performance. This article offers solutions to optimize system performance.
What is Antimalware Service Executable
Antimalware Service Executable is a core process of Windows Defender that runs in the background to keep your computer safe from malware and viruses. Although it enhances system security, frequent scanning can lead to excessive CPU and memory consumption, especially during full scans, which can slow down regular computer use.
1. Update Device Drivers
Outdated, faulty, or incompatible drivers can cause performance drops, hardware malfunctions, or even system crashes. Using software like Driver Sentry to detect and update drivers automatically can save time and help avoid downloading or installing the wrong drivers.
Click the download button to get the latest Driver Sentry version. Install and open the software, then click "Scan".
The scan will show which drivers are missing or need updates. Find the drivers to update in the results list and click "Upgrade".
After updating, restart your computer to ensure the new drivers are fully effective.
2. Disable Windows Defender Scheduled Scans
Press Windows + R to open the Run box, type "taskschd.msc", and press Enter.
Navigate to "Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows", locate and expand Windows Defender, then double-click Windows Defender Scheduled Scan.
In the properties window, uncheck "Run with highest privileges".
Go to the Conditions tab, uncheck all options, and click "OK" to save the changes.
3. Turn Off Real-Time Protection (Only When Needed)
Go to "Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection".
Click "Manage Settings" under "Virus & Threat Protection" Settings.
Find "Real-time protection" and turn it off.
Additionally, you can disable Defender by going to "Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows Features on or off".
Note:
Disabling real-time protection increases vulnerability to malware. Only disable it temporarily and re-enable it afterward.
4. Adjust Windows Defender Exclusions
Press Win + I to open Settings and go to "Update & Security".
Find Windows Defender, then click "Add an exclusion" under the Exclusions section.
Click "Exclude a .exe, .com, or .scr process", type in "MsMpEng.exe", and click "OK".
5. Disable Windows Defender in the Registry
Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
Type "regedit" and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
In the navigation pane, find and expand the folders to reach HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender.
Find the "DisableAntiSpyware" key and set its value data to 1.
Note:
If you don't see the DisableAntiSpyware key, right-click in the blank area of the Registry Editor, select "New > DWORD (32-bit) Value", name it "DisableAntiSpyware", and set its value data to 1.
6. Check for System File Corruption
Type "Command Prompt" in the search box, right-click, and select Run as administrator.
Enter the command "sfc /scannow" and press Enter.
This will scan and repair any corrupted system files. Once complete, restart your computer.
If SFC does not resolve all issues, run the DISM tool to repair the system image.
Enter the command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This process may take time as it attempts to repair the system image.
7. Upgrade Hardware
For multitasking and high-load applications, adding more RAM can greatly enhance system performance. A minimum of 8GB is recommended, while 16GB is ideal for gaming or professional tasks.
If your computer uses an HDD, upgrading to an SSD can improve boot speed and file access times.
Gamers or video editors can benefit from upgrading their GPU for better graphics processing, resulting in smoother gaming and faster video rendering.
For older CPUs, consider upgrading to a higher-performance model to boost overall computing power, ideal for multitasking and demanding applications.
Following these steps will help manage Windows Defender, improve system performance, and optimize hardware. If problems continue, consider seeking technical support or upgrading hardware.
See also:
8 Ways to Fix GPU Not Detected on Windows
9 Ways to Fix Critical Process Died Error in Windows 10
