SVCHOST.EXE 99% CPU Problem

The SVCHOST.EXE CPU issue is a long standing plague of Windows XP, Windows 2000 and other versions of the Windows OS systems but there is in many cases a very simple solution.

Symptoms:

• Your PC is running unbearably slow
• Your CPU is running at close to 99% or 100%
• On inspecting Task Manager Processes tab you see that SVCHOST.EXE is hogging your CPU
• In Safe Mode your PC runs smoothly
• This may happen across multiple PC’s prompt alarm bells of viruses

Explanation:

This problem is being caused by a version of Microsoft Update.  By disabling Microsoft Update and reverting to the original Windows Update the SVCHOST problem is resolved.  Furthermore, once you get your PC 100% up to date with Windows Updates you may re-enable the offending Microsoft Update service.

Solution:

1. Click Start > All Programs > Windows Update (or open Internet Explorer and go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com)
   
2. On the left hand navigation bar, click Change Settings
3. On the right, scroll to the bottom until you see the grey area with the words “To stop using Microsoft Update”
   
4. Place a check mark in the checkbox beside “Disable Microsoft Update software and let me use Windows Update only” as shown in the above screenshot
5. Click the Apply changes now button
   
6. When prompted if you are sure as per above screenshot, click Yes
7. You will then be presented with a confirmation screen like the one below.  Click the link Windows Update website or open Internet Explorer and go to http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com
   
8. Run Windows Update by clicking the Express button and re-run it after rebooting as many times as you have to until all Critical and Recommended Windows Updates have been installed successfully
9. Now you may if you wish reverse the above proces in steps 1 to 6 above to re-enable Microsoft Update but only if you want.  It is not neccesary as Windows will update itself just fine with Microsoft Update disabled.