Steps to Solve the Desktop Window Manager Process High GPU Usage Issue

The Desktop Window Manager (DWM.exe) is a system process in Windows 10/11 that manages visual effects on the desktop. It is responsible for rendering the user interface on your computer, including themes, transparency effects, animations, menus, taskbar thumbnails, and more. However, sometimes users may encounter an issue where the Desktop Window Manager process uses high GPU usage, which can cause performance issues. In this article, we will provide you with some information on how to fix the Desktop Window Manager process high GPU usage issue.

Facts from the question

  • The question is about the Desktop Window Manager process high GPU usage issue.
  • The user is unable to change their performance settings in the power options.
  • The user can only see the "Balanced" option and not "High Performance."

Steps to solve the issue

Here are some steps to solve the Desktop Window Manager process high GPU usage issue:

  1. Update GPU drivers: Outdated GPU drivers can cause issues with the Desktop Window Manager process. Try updating your GPU drivers to the latest version.
  2. Disable hardware acceleration: Hardware acceleration can cause the Desktop Window Manager process to use high GPU usage. Try disabling hardware acceleration in your applications and see if it helps.
  3. Disable transparency effects: Transparency effects can cause the Desktop Window Manager process to use high GPU usage. Try disabling transparency effects in Windows settings.
  4. Disable HDR: Some users have reported that disabling HDR in Windows settings can help fix the Desktop Window Manager process high GPU usage issue.
  5. Use a lower resolution: Using a lower resolution can help reduce the load on the GPU and fix the Desktop Window Manager process high GPU usage issue.

Related questions and their answers

What is the Desktop Window Manager process?

The Desktop Window Manager process is a system process in Windows 10/11 that manages visual effects on the desktop. It is responsible for rendering the user interface on your computer, including themes, transparency effects, animations, menus, taskbar thumbnails, and more.

How to fix high GPU usage in Windows 10/11?

Here are some steps to fix high GPU usage in Windows 10/11:

  1. Update GPU drivers.
  2. Disable hardware acceleration.
  3. Disable transparency effects.
  4. Disable HDR.
  5. Use a lower resolution.

Conclusion

The Desktop Window Manager process high GPU usage issue can be frustrating when trying to use your computer. The steps provided in this article can help you fix this issue and reduce the load on your GPU. If you encounter any other issues related to the Desktop Window Manager process, you can refer to the related questions and their answers for further assistance.