However, it sometimes happens that the Task Manager doesn’t allow you to change the priority. You will either get a message saying Access Denied, or the priority simply won’t change. This can occur with all processes on your system or with a specific process on all systems. If one process has this issue on multiple systems, it is the process’ fault and not much can be done. But if all processes on your system result in the same outcome, read on to see what you can do. NOTE: For all the steps below, “make sure” you are logged in as Admin.
Method 1: Select “Show processes from all users” in the Task Manager
OPTIONAL: To split the load, set each instance to its own core by right-clicking the process, select “Set Affinity” and ensure only a single core is selected. Select the other core for the second instance. If you have a second hard drive, running the second instance from the second hard drive should also increase performance.
Changing the priority in the Task Manager can sometimes do more harm than good, as it may not leave enough CPU power for other processes on your system. You would be much better off upgrading your system to support the demanding games you’re trying to play. If, however, you still want to use your current system, use the aforementioned steps to change the game’s priority.
Method 2: Check if User Account Control is turned on
User Account Control is in place to ensure programs don’t damage your system. It will give you several prompts when you’re trying to install something or make a modification to your system to prevent you from accidentally doing something wrong.
Method 3: Boot into safe mode and check if the problem reoccurs
Booting into safe mode will disable numerous Windows services and features, but it will give you a clean slate that can help you get to the root of the problem more easily.
