Microsoft Edge, the default browser on Windows 11, offers several unique features like Sleeping Tabs, Vertical Tabs, Collections, Password Monitor, and deep integration with Windows Defender SmartScreen for security. Microsoft regularly updates the Edge browser with new features, bug fixes, and speed optimization. It also now includes AI-powered enhancements such as Copilot integration, AI-based search, and Bing Chat, which makes Edge one of the most advanced browsers on Windows 11. However, sometimes you may notice that Microsoft Edge consumes high CPU usage, causing your PC to lag, overheat, or run its fans constantly. Users report that when loading a page or performing other activities, Microsoft Edge is using CPU usage 100%. This issue can occur due to background processes, heavy websites, extensions, or even temporary software conflicts. Here is how to fix and reduce Microsoft Edge’s high CPU usage issue on Windows 11.
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Why is Edge using so much CPU?
Several factors cause Edge high CPU usage in Windows 11, including Corrupted cache or browsing data, Conflicting or malicious extensions. Other potential causes include an outdated browser or graphics driver or a corrupted installation.
- Too many tabs open – If you have multiple tabs open, Edge has to manage each one separately. Every tab uses memory and processing power, so having too many can make your CPU work harder.
- Too many extensions – Browser extensions add useful features, but each one also consumes system resources. If an extension is poorly coded or outdated, it can increase CPU usage even more.
- Background tasks – Edge may keep running tasks in the background, like syncing data, preloading pages, or keeping inactive tabs ready, which adds extra CPU load.
- Hardware acceleration issues – Edge uses your graphics card to handle visual tasks smoothly, but if your graphics drivers are outdated or faulty, this can push more work to the CPU instead.
- Outdated browser version – Older versions of Edge might contain bugs or inefficiencies that cause higher CPU usage.
- Corrupted cache or user profile – When browsing data or your profile becomes corrupted, Edge can start misbehaving and using more system resources than normal.
- Malware or unwanted software – Some malicious scripts or browser hijackers can run in the background, secretly consuming CPU power.
Clear Edge Cache and Temporary Files
Outdated cookies, cache, and other website data can also cause Microsoft Edge to utilize more CPU than usual on your Windows 11 computer.
- Open Edge → Click Menu (three dots) → Settings.
- Go to Privacy, search, and services.
- Under Clear browsing data, click Choose what to clear.
- Select Cached images and files, Cookies, and Browsing history → Click Clear now.
Disable Startup Boost and Background Extensions
Edge uses a feature called Startup Boost to pre-load in memory and background extensions to stay active even when Edge is closed. However, this can sometimes lead to Microsoft Edge using CPU even when the browser is closed. Disabling these ensures Edge doesn’t consume resources when not actively in use.
- Open Edge Settings → System and performance → System
- Access it directly by typing on the address bar: edge://settings/system/manageSystem
- Here, toggle off the button next to Startup boost and Continue running background extensions and apps when Microsoft Edge is closed.
- Restart your PC, and check if the CPU usage is reduced.
Turn Off Hardware Acceleration
Hardware acceleration allows Edge to use your GPU for better performance, but if your graphics driver is outdated or incompatible, it can cause CPU spikes. For several users, disabling Hardware Acceleration on edge helps fix the High CPU usage problem.
- Go to Edge Settings → System and performance → System
- Disable Use hardware acceleration when available.
- Click Restart to apply the changes.
Update Microsoft Edge and Windows 11
An outdated browser or system version may have bugs that cause performance issues. Updating ensures you’re running the latest performance improvements and security patches.
Update Edge:
- Open Menu (…) → Help and feedback → About Microsoft Edge.
- Edge will automatically check for updates and install them.
- Restart your browser to complete the installation.
Update Windows:
- Press Windows + I → Windows Update → Check for updates.
- Install available updates and restart your PC to apply changes.
Disable Unnecessary Extensions
Some extensions, especially ad blockers or download managers, can continuously run background scripts that consume CPU. Let’s disable edge extensions and check if it helps fix High CPU usage by Edge on Windows 11.
- In Edge, click Menu (…) → Extensions → Manage extensions.
- Turn off or remove extensions you don’t use regularly.
- Restart the browser and check CPU usage.
Scan for Malware or Browser Hijackers
Again, Hidden malware or unwanted browser extensions can secretly run scripts in Edge, causing high CPU and memory usage. Running a malware scan detects and removes malicious components that hijack browser resources.
- Press Windows + I → Go to Privacy & Security → Windows Security → Virus & threat protection.
- Click Quick scan or Full scan for a deeper check.
- Remove any detected threats and restart your PC.
You can also use third-party antivirus or malware software to perform a deep scan and remove malware infections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why does Microsoft Edge use high CPU on Windows 11?
Because of multiple open tabs, background extensions, AI features, or corrupted data. It can also happen if your system or browser is outdated.
2. Is high CPU usage harmful for my PC?
Yes. Continuous high CPU usage can lead to overheating, slower performance, and reduced battery life.
3. Does disabling hardware acceleration help Edge performance?
Yes. On some systems, disabling hardware acceleration stabilizes CPU and GPU performance.
4. Will repairing Microsoft Edge delete my data?
No. The repair feature reinstalls Edge while keeping your history, passwords, bookmarks, and settings safe.
5. How do I monitor Edge’s CPU usage?
Press Shift + Esc inside Edge to open its built-in Task Manager, which shows CPU and memory usage per tab and extension.
