Windows Store Broker problem: very high CPU usage thus causing slow computer performance

Question

Original Title: Why does Windows 8.1 store completely fill up my CPU?

The Windows 8.1 store always fills up my CPU completely, making the fan blow crazy and my entire computer slow down. It's either the Windows store or 'Store Broker' according to Task Manager. Usually it happens when I start the store, but sometimes it will happen randomly and i have to go to Task Manager and end the task. Help!

Edit: I've found that it also happens with 'Microsoft WWA Host'. Task Manager shows it with the Windows Store icon.

Answer 1

Hi,

Store Broker (wshost.exe) is basically in charge of metro permissions. If you kill the process, that would kill the metro apps.

Please follow the method mentioned below:

Method 1:

I would suggest you to try the following steps and check if it works for you.

a. Open Task Manager by pressing Windows + X keys and end the “Store” and “Store Broker” tasks.

b. Open File Explorer and go to the C:\Users**{UserName}\AppData\Local\Packages\winstore_cw5n1h2txyewy\LocalState directory, where{User Name}** is the name of the user account you’re logged in as. The characters after “winstore_” may be different.

c. Rename the “Cache” directory/folder to “Cache.old”

d. Create a new “Cache” folder/directory.

Note: The above steps has worked for many community member. You may refer to the suggestions provided by TypoII replied on March 19, 2014 in the following post:

**http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows8\_1-performance/windows-store-broker-problem-very-high-cpu-usage/da99a4f6-50cd-4eab-8b44-6fe159924f56**

Method 2:

I would suggest you to run the system maintenance troubleshooter.

Follow these steps:

a) Press the Windows Key + W on the keyboard.

b) Type troubleshooter in the search box and then press Enter.

c) Click system and securityand run the System maintenance troubleshooter.

Method 3:

I would suggest you to reset Windows Store and check. Follow the steps below to clear Windows Store cache memory:

1. On the desktop screen, press Windows key + R to open run box.
2. Type WSReset.exe and hit Enter.

Please reply us on the status of the issue to assist you further.

Answer 2

Hello,

Your solution helped my husband to solve my problem. Renaming cache helped me.

Thank u, thank u thank u thank u

Answer 3

Hi Lyle,

Glad to know that we were able to fix the issue. Please reply to us if you face any issues with Windows in future.

Answer 4

Mr. Yaqub K,

Thank you. Not only did this help fix the original issue, but Windows store itself would not open - it was stuck on the loading page. Your solution fixed both of the problems. Everything is running as normal again.

TheMaster1101

Answer 5

Hi,

Glad to know that we were able to fix the issue. Please reply to us if you face any issues with Windows in future.