The main reason for this problem is usually that Cortana is running in the background or starts automatically when your computer turns on. Other possible reasons are damaged audio drivers or a Windows Audio service that is not responding properly. In this article, we will discuss different ways to solve this error.
1. Disable and Enable the Audio Service
Agent Activation Runtime may cause high CPU usage if your audio service is not functioning correctly. Since Cortana relies on this audio service (and Agent Activation Runtime interacts with Cortana), restarting the audio service can help resolve any temporary glitches.
2. Sign Out of Cortana and Disable it at Startup
The Agent Activation Runtime issue can occur if Cortana is being called repeatedly by the Agent Activation service. Signing out of Cortana and preventing it from running at system startup can help resolve the problem.
2.1. Sign Out of Cortana
2.2. Disable Cortana at System Startup
3. Reinstall the Sound Driver
A faulty or corrupted sound driver can lead to unusually high CPU usage by Agent Activation Runtime, as it’s critical for Cortana and audio-related processes. Reinstalling your sound driver may help fix this problem. If the problem goes away after uninstalling the sound driver but returns after reinstalling it, consider keeping your sound device uninstalled or disabled until you need it.
4. Disable the Agent Activation Runtime Service
If the Agent Activation Runtime service is stuck or in an error state, disabling it altogether might solve the issue.
5. Edit the System Registry
If the problem still exists or if you’re unable to change the service’s startup type because it’s greyed out, editing the Windows Registry can help—just proceed very carefully. Warning: Editing the Registry is risky and, if not done correctly, can cause serious problems. Only continue if you are comfortable making these changes.
