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How to Stop Msmpeng.exe High Memory Usage
Changing exclusion settings can quickly fix this problem
4 min. read
Updated onNovember 1, 2024
updated onNovember 1, 2024
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Resolve multiple Windows PC issues and speed up your PC effortlessly with specialized software.
MsMpEng.exe, a core component of Windows Defender, can sometimes causehigh memory usageon your PC, leading to performance issues.
The reason why MsMpEng.exe is used could stem from the process of scanning its directory, low hardware resources, and adware.
This guide will walk you through various solutions to mitigate this problem effectively.
How do I fix MsMpEng.exe high memory usage?
Before we start,ensure that your PC is malware-free, as sometimes malware can cause this problem. Alsokeep Windows Defender up to dateif you’re using Windows Server.
1. Prevent Windows Defender from scanning its directory
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PressWindows</kbd> then typeWindows Securityin the search bar.
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Click onWindows Securityfrom the results.
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Click onVirus & threat protection.
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UnderVirus & threat protectionsettings, click onManage settings.
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Scroll toExclusions, click onAdd or remove exclusions.
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SelectAdd an exclusionand chooseFolder.
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Select the following path:C:\Program files\Windows Defender
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Validate the change by clicking onExclude this folder.
Keep in mind that other applications, such as modeling applications, can cause this problem, so it’s advised to find and exclude them from scanning.
You might also be interested to read our guide onwhat is MsSense.exe and how to fix its issuesbecause it is a related process.
2. Limit CPU usage
3. Try a more reliable antivirus
Consider replacingWindows Defenderwith a more advanced antivirus solution to reduce memory usage effectively. We recommend ESET Home Essentials.
It employs the latest technologies for identifying and eliminating the latest malware, and it will protect all your devices, including your webcam and router.
ESET HOME Security Essential
4. Start your computer in Safe Mode
5. Reschedule Windows Defender
6. Try to disable Windows Defender
If you have a Home version of Windows, you will not have the Group Policy Editor available and you need to use Registry Editor instead.
In addition, you can trydisabling Antimalware Service Executableif you’re having this problem.
7. Disable Sample Submission
As this is an antivirus-related issue, you should also take a look at our selection of thebest antiviruses with unlimited license validityfor your PC and choose the right product for you.
Msmpeng.exe high memory usage isn’t the only Windows Defender problem, and many reported thatWindows Defender caused high HDD and CPU usage, but we have a guide that addresses those issues.
Other users reportedMicrosoft Defender Antivirus Service high memory usage, but we also covered that problem in another article.
If you have other suggestions or ideas, don’t hesitate to leave your thoughts in a comment below.
More about the topics:CPU,Windows Defender issues
Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina has been a Windows fan ever since she got her hands on her first Windows XP computer.
She is interested in all things technology, especially emerging technologies – AI and DNA computing in particular.
Prior to joining the WindowsReport team, she worked in the corporate world for a number of years.
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Madalina Dinita
Networking & Security Specialist
Madalina is a Windows fan since forever, especially interested in AI, emerging technologies, privacy, and security.
