The main purpose of the Windows Module Installer is to ensure the integrity and security of the Windows operating system by managing the installation and servicing of Windows updates, service packs, and other system components. It is designed to protect critical system files and prevent unauthorized modifications, thereby maintaining system stability and reliability. The Windows Module Installer runs with elevated privileges and has the ability to access and modify system files and registry settings. It is usually active in the background, working silently to manage the installation and maintenance of system components. However, it may become more noticeable during specific system updates or when installing optional Windows features.
Why is Windows Module Installer Utilizing 100% of My Disk?
It makes sense that the Windows Module Installer would be responsible for excessive disk or CPU usage in Windows, given how time-consuming updates to Windows and its related programs can be. You will often observe increases in CPU and disk usage during updates in Task Manager. However, if you continue to experience 100% disk utilization and high CPU usage for an hour or more after the updates have been completed, you might have a problem. When stress testing your CPU, sustained high CPU usage is normal; however, it is not normal after an update, as it can result in high CPU temperatures. Increased CPU temperatures can lead to slowdowns, freezes, and even shutdowns. If you are noticing continuous high disk and CPU usage from Windows Modules Installer, it is time to examine it more closely. Here is how to prevent Windows Modules Installer updates from consuming your CPU and disk resources:
1. Running Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
You can use this tool to ensure that the issue is not hardware-related. Your computer’s RAM module may have problems, causing instability which this tool allows you to identify.
2. Running Windows Update Troubleshooter
The Windows Update Troubleshooter is a built in tool in Windows that helps diagnose and resolve issues related to Windows updates. While it mainly focuses on resolving problems with the Windows Update service, it can also be helpful in identifying issues with the Windows Module Installer (TrustedInstaller.exe) if it is causing high CPU and disk usage. While the Windows Update Troubleshooter can be helpful in resolving issues related to the Windows Module Installer, it is important to note that it might not address all possible causes. If the problem persists, refer to the fixes below.
3. Running the “CHKDSK” command
Running the CHKDSK (Check Disk) command can help you find and fix issues with the file system and disk errors on your PC. While it may not directly address problems specifically related to the Windows Module Installer, it can indirectly assist in resolving high CPU and disk usage caused by disk related issues.
4. Running the “SFC” and “DISM” scans
Running the SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scans will find and repair the existing Windows system files and other similar files on your PC. If corrupted system files or issues with the Windows image were the underlying cause, the scans will solve the problem.
5. Killing the “TiWorker.exe” process
TiWorker.exe is the executable file for the Windows Module Installer Worker service, which is responsible for installing updates and system components. Killing this would kill the Windows Module installer, resulting in the termination of Windows Update processes.
6. Deleting the “SoftwareDistribution” Folder
Windows usually downloads and saves updates to the “SoftwareDistribution” Folder. Since the downloaded updates files are unable to install correctly, those corrupted Windows Update files result in high DIsk usage. Deleting the folder folder allows you to get rid of the corrupted files. Deleting the SoftwareDistribution folder helps reset the Windows Update components, and Windows will recreate the necessary files and folders as needed.
7. Turning off Automatic Window Updates
Disabling Automatic Updates will stop this problem from returning in the future as you will only be able to update Windows manually when your device is not in use, allowing optimal resources to carry out the update with no errors. By turning off automatic Windows updates, you can have more control over when and how updates are installed on your system. However, it’s important that you regularly update your operating system as it is crucial for security and stability. When you disable automatic updates, it becomes your responsibility to manually check for and install important updates to ensure your system remains protected.
