Alex Ruben
How to Fix High GPU Usage from Desktop Window Manager (DWM.exe) in Windows
Experiencing high GPU usage due to the Desktop Window Manager (DWM.exe) can lead to performance issues and lagging on your Windows machine. This guide will walk you through several effective methods to reduce GPU load, enhance system performance, and resolve lagging issues. By following these steps, you can optimize your Windows experience and enjoy smoother performance.
Before you begin, ensure that your Windows operating system is up to date. You should also have administrative privileges on your computer to modify system settings. If you’re running a version older than Windows 10 or Windows 11, some settings may differ slightly.
Step 1: Adjust Visual Effects for Best Performance
One of the first steps to reduce GPU usage is to modify the visual effects settings of your system. Here’s how to do it:
- Press the Windows key on your keyboard and type Adjust the appearance and performance of Windows. Select it from the search results.
- In the Performance Options window, choose Adjust for best performance.
- Additionally, check the boxes for Show thumbnails instead of icons and Smooth edges of screen fonts.
- Click Apply and then OK to save your settings.
Step 2: Disable Transparency and Animation Effects
Disabling transparency and animations can also help reduce GPU usage:
- Again, search for Visual Effects and open the same Performance Options window.
- Uncheck the options for Enable transparency and any animation effects.
- Click Apply and then OK to confirm the changes.
Step 3: Modify Graphics Settings
Another effective method is to adjust your graphics settings:
- Press the Windows key and search for Graphics settings. Open the Graphics settings menu.
- In the Graphics settings, turn off Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling.
- Close the settings window once you’re done.
Step 4: Change Power Plan to High Performance
Changing your power plan can also contribute to reduced GPU load:
- In the search bar, type Choose your power plan and open the power options.
- Expand the Show additional plans section.
- Select the High performance option.
- Close the power settings window.
Step 5: Restart Your System
After making these changes, it’s a good idea to restart your computer to ensure that all adjustments take effect properly. This can often resolve lingering performance issues.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some additional tips to further enhance your experience:
- Regularly update your graphics drivers to ensure compatibility and performance.
- If problems persist, consider monitoring your system using Task Manager to identify any other applications consuming high GPU resources.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to effectively reduce high GPU usage caused by Desktop Window Manager and improve your overall system performance. Regular maintenance and adjustments can lead to a smoother and more efficient Windows experience. If you encounter further issues, consider exploring additional troubleshooting guides or support resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Desktop Window Manager (DWM.exe)?
Desktop Window Manager is a Windows process that manages visual effects on the desktop, including transparency, taskbar thumbnails, and window animations.
How can I check if DWM.exe is causing high GPU usage?
You can check GPU usage in the Task Manager under the “Processes” tab. Look for DWM.exe and monitor its GPU usage percentage.
Will disabling visual effects affect my user experience?
Yes, disabling visual effects may make the interface look less visually appealing but can significantly enhance performance, especially on older hardware.