How To Stop 100 Disk Usage In Windows

This can be a problem if a rogue process is running in the background, consuming system resources. To troubleshoot this issue, below is a list of different methods that you can follow.

1. Check Background Apps

When dealing with 100% disk usage, your initial step should be to inspect any background apps in the Task Manager. Often, a background process that uses your disk excessively can lead to such issues. This typically happens when a process is not functioning correctly. The culprits could vary, but commonly, processes like Your Phone and Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry are known to cause the problem. To resolve this, you’ll need to terminate the problematic background process.

2. Rebuild Windows Search Index

Windows relies on indexing for faster search results, but this can sometimes become corrupted, leading to persistent 100% disk usage. You’ll need to rebuild the Windows Search Index to address this. This deletes the current index and starts over.

3. Run Security Scan

100% disk usage can also stem from a malware or virus infection on your computer. Perform a system-wide security scan to eliminate any malicious files. You can conduct the scan using a third-party antivirus application or Windows Defender.

4. Defragment Drives

Performance issues with hard drives can occur over time as data becomes fragmented. Windows provides a built-in utility to defragment and optimize your drives. Doing so can often alleviate the 100% disk usage problem.

5. Disable Google Drive and OneDrive Sync

Syncing files with cloud-based storage services like Google Drive or OneDrive frequently leads to high disk usage.

5.1. Google Drive

5.2. OneDrive

6. Repair Windows Image

Corrupted Windows system files on your computer might also be contributing to 100% disk usage. Repairing the Windows image using built-in utilities can fix the issue.

7. Install Available Windows Updates

An outdated version of Windows may also be the cause of high disk usage. A Windows inconsistency that has already been addressed in newer updates could be responsible.

8. Disable Superfetch

Superfetch is a Windows service that preloads your most frequently used apps into memory, intending to speed up app launching times. However, this feature might adversely affect performance by preemptively loading apps that are not required. To solve this, disabling Superfetch on your computer may be beneficial. Note: If you later choose to re-enable Superfetch, you can do so with this command:

9. Disable Windows Search

The search function in Windows uses the indexed cache to locate files or folders swiftly. However, Windows Search can sometimes experience malfunctioning, causing continuous disk resource utilization. Disabling the Windows Search service can help return the disk usage to normal levels. To permanently disable Windows Search, follow the next steps: To re-enable Windows Search, modify the Startup type back to Automatic.

10. Perform a Clean Boot

Executing a clean boot of your system can determine if a third-party service or program is responsible for the 100% disk usage problem. This process boots your computer with only the necessary Windows services.

11. Check Disk Health

You can assess your drive’s health using third-party utilities. Should your drive’s health be in question, you might need to consider replacing the drive. Hard drives, in particular, have a finite lifespan; after which, their reliability can significantly decrease. To check your drive’s health, the CrystalDiskInfo utility can be very useful. Just install the tool and run it to determine the health status of your drive. The aforementioned solutions should help you overcome the 100% disk usage problem. However, if the issue persists, it may be time to reach out to the official Microsoft support for further assistance.

12. Update Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to performance issues, including 100% disk usage. Ensure that all your device drivers, particularly for the storage controller and chipset, are current.

13. Reset Virtual Memory

Virtual memory is used as an extension of your computer’s physical memory. Incorrect virtual memory settings can cause high disk usage.

14. Change Energy Plan

The high-performance energy plan in Windows can increase system performance, but it might also lead to higher disk usage. Switching to a balanced plan could alleviate the issue.