🟢 Awaiting Response random cpu and hard disk usage spikes

[maxim123]

Hi, I have been getting random cpu and hard disk usage spikes. I know that it is sometimes due to windows updates, but I don't know why it spikes other times. Just to be sure, I would like to know if my laptop system is safe or not, and would like advice on how to determine that. Thank you.

[xrobwx71]

What have you done to diagnose so far?

[maxim123]

I have checked with malwarebytes and windows defender, both found no issues.

[jmarket]

Random CPU and disk spikes are fairly common on Windows systems — but it’s smart that you’re checking into it, especially since you’ve already ruled out malware with Malwarebytes and Windows Defender.

Here are a few things you can do to pinpoint what’s causing the spikes and ensure your system is safe:

1. Use Task Manager or Resource Monitor
   Open Task Manager (

   Ctrl + Shift + Esc

   ) and go to the Processes tab.
   Sort by CPU and Disk usage to see what’s using the most resources when a spike happens.
   You can also open Resource Monitor by typing

   resmon

   in Start.
2. Check Windows Update and Background Services
   Sometimes Windows will run indexing, telemetry, or update services in the background.
   In Task Manager, check for processes like

   Windows Modules Installer Worker

   or

   svchost.exe

   hosting Windows Update.
3. Scan with an Additional Tool (Optional)
   You can run a second opinion scan using Emsisoft Emergency Kit or Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool — both are free and portable.
4. Check Startup Apps
   In Task Manager → Startup tab, disable unnecessary apps that start with Windows.
   Too many background programs can cause periodic usage spikes.
5. Review Event Viewer Logs
   Type

   eventvwr

   in Start and look under Windows Logs → System for recurring warnings or errors that coincide with the spikes.

If you can, post a screenshot of your Task Manager → Processes tab during one of these spikes — that will help us identify the culprit more precisely. 👍

— PCHF Malware Response Team

[maxim123]

If you can, post a screenshot of your Task Manager → Processes tab during one of these spikes — that will help us identify the culprit more precisely. 👍

— PCHF Malware Response Team

Thank you. I will report back when I see the spikes, usually what happens is the spikes don't last long. The spikes happen and go away immediately, I have checked my processes during those moments and everything is usually normal (or I can't remember a high usage.).
I checked with emisoft and it shows no detection for both quick scan and malware scan.
Attached is how the spike is like in my system. Happens and then stays calm immediately.

[maxim123]

Hi, just reporting back. I have been away from my laptop these few days, so I wasn't able to check properly. am home now, and will be noticing any spikes while I use it.