How to Resolve Windows Server 2016 Service Host Local System High CPU Usage?

Dear Dev, let us address a common issue faced by Windows Server 2016 users – the service host local system high CPU usage. This problem can be frustrating, especially when it interferes with your work processes. Fortunately, there are various approaches to address this issue. This article will discuss the causes of the problem and ways to fix it. Read on to find out more.

Understand the Meaning of Service Host Local System

Service Host Local System is a Windows process that carries out several operations like downloading and installation of updates, running installed services, and handling other tasks that require system resources. The process is crucial for the smooth running of the server, but sometimes it uses more CPU than necessary. This leads to a slowdown in the performance of your system. Let us explore some reasons why your service host local system may experience high CPU usage:

Causes of Service Host Local System High CPU Usage

1. Windows Update

Windows Update is a background service that runs in the Service Host Local System process. The service is responsible for downloading and installing the latest Windows operating system updates. When a new update is released, the process can use high CPU usage during the download and installation stages.

2. Antivirus Software

Antivirus programs can cause high CPU usage by the Service Host Local System process. It happens when scanning files, folders, and drives, which requires a lot of computer resources.

3. Windows Audio and Windows Camera Frame Server

The Service Host Local System process also handles the Windows Audio and Windows Camera Frame Server. If you have sound or camera issues on your server, the process may use high CPU usage to fix them.

4. Malware and Virus Infection

Malware and virus infections can cause high CPU usage by the Service Host Local System process. They may use system resources to perform malicious actions on your server, causing the process to work harder.

5. Corrupted Registry

Registry corruption can cause several issues on your server, including high CPU usage by the Service Host Local System process. Your registry stores important information about your server’s software and hardware, and if it gets corrupted, it can affect the process’s ability to function correctly.

How to Fix Service Host Local System High CPU Usage

Now that we understand the causes of the problem let us explore some ways to fix it. Here are some solutions to consider:

1. Disable Windows Update

Disabling Windows Update may reduce the high CPU usage by the Service Host Local System process. However, this is not recommended as Windows Updates are crucial for your server’s security and performance. You can, however, disable the service temporarily to troubleshoot the problem. Here are the steps to do it:

Remember to re-enable the service after troubleshooting.

2. Run an Antivirus Scan

If an antivirus program is causing the high CPU usage, run a full system scan to detect and remove malware or viruses. Ensure that your antivirus software is updated to the latest version to prevent future infections.

3. Disable Windows Audio and Windows Camera Frame Server

You can disable these services to reduce the high CPU usage by the Service Host Local System process. However, this option is not recommended as it may disable your sound and camera functions.

4. Run System File Checker

The System File Checker scans your server’s system files and replaces any corrupted files with a cached copy. Here are the steps to run it:

5. Clean Your Registry

Cleaning your registry may remove any corrupted entries that are causing the high CPU usage. You can use third-party software to clean your registry or do it manually using the Registry Editor. Here are the steps to use the Registry Editor:

FAQ

1. How do I know if I am experiencing high CPU usage by Service Host Local System?

You will notice your server’s performance slowing down, and your CPU usage in Task Manager will be high. You can open Task Manager by pressing the “Ctrl+Shift+Esc” keys or right-clicking the taskbar and selecting “Task Manager”.

2. Can I disable Service Host Local System?

No, you cannot disable the Service Host Local System process as it performs essential tasks for your server’s functioning.

3. What can I do to prevent high CPU usage by Service Host Local System?

You can prevent high CPU usage by ensuring your server’s software and antivirus programs are updated, minimizing background processes, and cleaning your registry regularly.

4. Can high CPU usage by Service Host Local System cause system crashes?

Yes, high CPU usage can cause system instability, leading to crashes and other performance issues.

5. Should I try all the solutions listed in this article?

No, you should try the solutions that are relevant to your situation. Not all causes of high CPU usage may apply to your server, so choose the options that may work for you.

In conclusion, high CPU usage by Service Host Local System can be frustrating, but it can be fixed using the solutions discussed in this article. Remember to follow the instructions carefully and seek professional help if needed. We hope this article has been helpful to you. Thank you for reading, Dev!