Desktop Window Manager

Question

This process is using up a lot of RAM (200 - 700 MB) when idel or doing tasks, I have done some reseach that seems to say there may be a driver issue when this happens and I'm looking for some clarification.

Answer 1

Hi,

this may mean that improper video driver is installed.

Please tell PC model and configuration, show a screenshot of built-in msinfo32 tool.

Answer 2

The Desktop Window Manager (DWM) can indeed consume a significant amount of RAM, especially when handling graphical tasks or effects. If you are experiencing high memory usage (200 - 700 MB) by the DWM process, it could be related to several factors, including driver issues.

Drivers play a crucial role in how well the DWM operates. If your graphics drivers are outdated or incompatible, it may lead to increased memory usage as the DWM struggles to manage graphical rendering effectively. It is advisable to ensure that your graphics drivers are up to date. You can check for updates through Windows Update or by visiting the manufacturer's website for your graphics card.

Additionally, if the DWM is consuming excessive memory, it might be beneficial to investigate any recently installed applications or updates that could be impacting performance. If the DWM is not functioning correctly, it can also lead to visual artifacts and other performance issues, as it is responsible for compositing the desktop and managing visual effects.

If the problem persists after updating drivers, consider disabling certain visual effects or reverting to a previous driver version that may have been more stable for your system.

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References:

• The Desktop Window Manager
• Windows 7 black screen on computer unlock