Fix “Shell Infrastructure Host High CPU” and Memory Usage on Windows 10 and 11

If you’ve noticed that the Shell Infrastructure Host is causing high CPU and memory usage on your Windows 10 or 11 PC, you’re not alone.

This guide is designed to help you understand what the Shell Infrastructure Host is, why it might be using a lot of system resources, and how you can fix this issue to optimize your PC’s performance.

Shell Infrastructure Host High CPU

What is the Shell Infrastructure Host?

The Shell Infrastructure Host, also known as sihost.exe, is an essential part of the Windows operating system.

This service is responsible for several graphical elements of the Windows user interface, including the Start menu, taskbar transparency, and desktop window management.

Without the Shell Infrastructure Host, your PC’s interface might not function correctly.

Causes of High CPU and Memory Usage by the Shell Infrastructure Host

While the Shell Infrastructure Host is designed to run quietly in the background, it may sometimes consume more system resources than it should, leading to high CPU and memory usage. Several factors might cause this, including:

  1. Software Incompatibility: Some third-party applications might not be compatible with the Shell Infrastructure Host, leading to increased CPU and memory usage.
  2. Corrupted System Files: If certain Windows system files become corrupted, it might affect the Shell Infrastructure Host and cause high CPU or memory usage.
  3. Malware or Virus: If the sihost.exe file is infected by malware or a virus, it might result in high CPU and memory usage.

How to Fix High CPU and Memory Usage by the Shell Infrastructure Host

Below are several methods to fix high CPU and memory usage by the Shell Infrastructure Host on Windows 10 and 11:

Method 1: Update Your Windows

Microsoft regularly releases updates to enhance system performance and fix bugs. Check if there’s an update available for your Windows:

  1. Press the Windows + I keys to open Settings.
  2. Click on ‘Update & Security.’
  3. Click ‘Check for updates.’ If updates are available, download and install them.

Method 2: Run System File Checker

The System File Checker (SFC) can scan and repair corrupted system files:

  1. Press the Windows + X keys and select ‘Command Prompt (Admin).’
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. The SFC will scan and repair corrupted system files. Restart your PC once the process is complete.

Method 3: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help determine if a third-party application is causing the issue:

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to open Run, type msconfig and press Enter.
  2. In the System Configuration window, select ‘Selective startup’ and uncheck ‘Load startup items.’
  3. Go to the ‘Services’ tab, check ‘Hide all Microsoft services,’ and click ‘Disable all.’
  4. Click ‘OK’ and restart your PC.

If the high CPU usage issue is resolved, it means one of the startup programs was causing the problem. Enable each service one at a time to identify the culprit.

Method 4: Perform a Full System Scan

Perform a full system scan using your antivirus software to check for malware or viruses. If threats are found, follow the prompts from your antivirus to quarantine or remove them.

Conclusion

The Shell Infrastructure Host is a crucial component of the Windows interface, but it can occasionally cause high CPU and memory usage.

Whether it’s due to software incompatibility, corrupted system files, or malware, this guide offers solutions to help optimize your PC’s performance.

Regular system updates, system file checks, clean boot diagnostics, and regular virus scans can help keep these issues at bay, ensuring a smooth user experience on Windows 10 and 11.