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DesktopWindowManager GPU spikes (a lot)

mrrrp mrow 20 Reputation points
2026-06-03T15:48:02.93+00:00

I've recently noticed that DWM.exe (desktop window manager) spikes the GPU a lot for no apparent reason. This isn't specific to any app nor game, this seems to happen every so often. I've done the no-MPO reg patch, the transparency off, basically everything that a Google search recommends you to. This started recently, even tho I have not installed any new apps nor updates (and no I have not downloaded any files too), and I cannot seem to find why it spikes this much (every 3-5 minutes). It is mostly unnoticable unless I do something GPU heavy (60% to 98%GPU usage that is)

Specs; Win11 25H2 (build 26200.7171), Dell Latitude 5400, Intel i5-8365U, iGPU = Intel UHD620, 16 gigs a ram and a 256GB NVMe (unnecessary ssd info but eh)

I have tried

doing Win+Ctrl+Shift+B when spikes, doesn't help, the 2 flashes lag a lot too
doing something else, but it still spikes
no-MPO reg patch
transparency off
driver update
checking background processes and disabling them

to no avail.
Also forgot to mention I have noticed it sometimes uses VideoProcessing instead of 3D, not sure why but maybe that's useful?
Posting this here because Microslop won't let me talk to their specialists in a chat
Hope this is helpful enough, if not you can always ask questions (obviously)

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Performance and system failures

Answer accepted by question author

Lester Bernard Reyes 81,670 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-06-05T04:44:31.4066667+00:00

Hi, thank you for that information. As per checking and analyzing the event logs, there are multiple Kernel-Processor-Power warnings on the PC. This means there is an error with the processor itself. This might happen when the processor is overheating, getting low power from the motherboard, or in the power supply. In this case, let us run a test and repair:

Method 1. Run the Intel Diagnostic tool:

 

Go to this link: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/download/15951/19792/intel-processor-diagnostic-tool.html

Then download and run the tool.

 

Suppose there is a failure on the test. In that case, that means there is a hardware issue on your processor, which you need to contact Intel support or a local technician for the next step, which might be a processor replacement or board, depending on the diagnosis of the hardware.

 

Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

Method 2. Do a clean boot:

A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, so that you can determine whether a background program is interfering with your game or program.

  • In the search box on the taskbar, type msconfig and select System Configuration from the results.
  • On the Services tab of System Configuration, select Hide all Microsoft services, and then select Disable all.
  • On the Startup tab of System Configuration, select Open Task Manager.
  • Under Startup in Task Manager, for each startup item, select the item and then select Disable.
  • Close Task Manager.
  • On the Startup tab of System Configuration, select OK. When you restart the computer, it's in a clean boot environment.

Troubleshooting reference: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/929135/how-to-perform-a-clean-boot-in-windows

Method 3. Run memory diagnostic tool: The memory diagnostic tool is a RAM test to check if there are any RAM issues that cause the processor to malfunction.

Press Windows key + R, then type in mdsched.exe hit OK, then restart the device.

Note: If the issue persists, I suggest contacting a local technician to physically check the processor or do a re-paste of thermal paste to optimize the processor.

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  1. mrrrp mrow 20 Reputation points
    2026-06-04T11:14:06.05+00:00

    @Lester Bernard Reyes Thanks your your response :) I've uploaded it here: https://files.catbox.moe/ienmme.evtx

    I don't remember downloading any apps around when the issue started to occur, but maybe I forgot.

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  2. Lester Bernard Reyes 81,670 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-06-03T19:22:39.49+00:00

    Hi, I'm Bernard. I'm happy to help!

    This issue occurs when unnecessary services are running in the background. Moreover, have you noticed any changes before the issue started? Have you installed any hardware or software that may trigger the issue? while waiting for your response, can you please check the System logs on the PC so I can further examine the root cause of the issue?

    To share the System logs, please follow the steps in the link below:

    Press the Windows key + X, then select "Event Viewer"

    Click the drop-down of "Windows logs"

    Right-click System > click Filter Current logs > Check: Critical, Warning, and Error > Hit OK

    On the right pane, click "Save Filtered Log File As..."

    Save the System logs file to your desktop and share it by following the steps from the link: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/share-onedrive-files-and-folders-9fcc2f7d-de0c-4cec-93b0-a82024800c07

    Note: You can also use your preferred cloud storage to upload and share the logs.

    Note: This is a public forum. I may respond shortly, but I apologize in advance for any delays. I am simply a fellow user trying to provide helpful insights and information.

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  3. Lester Bernard Reyes 81,670 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-06-05T16:19:51.86+00:00

    You're very welcome, and that would be the best approach.

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  4. mrrrp mrow 20 Reputation points
    2026-06-05T15:38:38.8633333+00:00

    @Lester Bernard Reyes Thanks for your response again :D
    The processor test passed with flying colours and the memory diag test too.
    About the kernel processor warnings, my charger is an OEM 90w one (19.5v 4.62A) and power seems fine so I think the main issue would be the cooling then. I'll have a word with the refurbisher and ask for some thermal paste (as my laptop is still under warranty).
    Thanks again!

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