This process is designed to optimize your computer’s RAM and disk space usage by compressing memory. However, any software incompatibility or configuration issue can prevent it from functioning efficiently. Follow the step-by-step solutions provided in this guide to effectively resolve the 100% disk usage issue caused by the System and Compressed Memory process.
1. Reset Paging File Settings
Start by resetting your computer’s paging file settings. Incorrect paging file configurations can cause the System and Compressed Memory process to utilize an excessive amount of disk resources. Note: If the automatic management option was already enabled, consider configuring a custom paging file size. Set the minimum and maximum sizes between 1.5 to 3 times your computer’s installed RAM. This allows Windows to manage memory more efficiently and helps prevent disk usage spikes.
2. Adjust Windows for Best Performance
Excessive disk usage by the System and Compressed Memory process can result from the visual effects settings in Windows, especially when these effects are not properly optimized in the background. You can reduce the strain on system resources by optimizing Windows for best performance. This adjustment minimizes unnecessary effects, freeing up resources for core operations and reducing the demand on your system disk.
3. Run an SFC Scan
Corruption or damage to Windows system components can cause the System and Compressed Memory process to consume excessive disk resources. Running an SFC scan allows you to verify the integrity of your Windows files and repair them if necessary. This sequence addresses potential file corruption, ensuring your Windows resources are functioning correctly.
4. Check Drive Health
Underlying drive issues can also contribute to persistent high disk usage. If your hard drive or SSD health is compromised, it can slow down or interrupt essential system processes. Use diagnostic tools such as Hard Disk Sentinel, which you can download from the official website here. Install and run the utility to receive a detailed health report, and follow any recommendations provided to maintain optimal drive performance.
5. Disable Superfetch (SysMain)
Superfetch, now known as SysMain, is intended to optimize application startup by preloading frequently used programs into memory. However, if it malfunctions, it may significantly increase disk usage.
6. Disable Memory Diagnostic
The Memory Diagnostic service can sometimes cause excessive disk usage if it is running frequently in the background. Disabling it may alleviate the issue. Disabling this scheduled task ensures it does not interfere unnecessarily with your system’s disks during regular operation.
7. Perform a Clean Boot
Background applications, especially those with memory leaks, can contribute to high disk usage by the System and Compressed Memory process. Performing a clean boot helps identify if a third-party service is responsible. If disk usage is normal in a clean boot, gradually re-enable services to isolate the application causing the problem. This approach is effective for troubleshooting software conflicts and memory leaks.
8. Reinstall Windows
If none of the solutions above resolve the issue, consider performing a clean installation of Windows. This step will address any severe system or software corruption that cannot be fixed through regular troubleshooting. For a step-by-step walkthrough, refer to our detailed guide on clean installing Windows. Before proceeding, ensure you back up all important files, as this process will erase data from your system partition.
