Issues with Windows 11 freezing

Question

Hello,

I have a basically brand new computer and have been experiencing issues pretty much from day 3. It all started when I downloaded Zoom for a meeting. After this, all of the apps on my computer would get "stuck." After spending hours on the phone with someone, it was suggested that I do a clean install of Windows 11, which I did.

The issue since then is still persisting. I am noticing in task manager that the memory usage is high (like in the 70%'s) and the CPU usage is sometimes high as well. I notice that if I have a single Microsoft Edge or Firefox browser open, it will say I have about 15+ open. I see Workloadssessionhost is high on the list and there are often multiples of those. I have run a full scan and an offline scan and my windows updates are up to date. Desperately need some advice!

Thank You!

Answer 1

Hi,

If possible, access the task manager, take a screenshot, and post it here.

Regarding the Workloads Session Host, if possible, access the details tab in the task manager, right-click, open file location, and see where the directory points to.

I recommend you do an analysis with Microsoft's MSRT and Malwarebytes /Adwcleaner.

MSRT: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=9905

After the analysis, open the command prompt (admin) and run the commands: sfc /scannow and dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth, wait for the process to finish and restart the computer.

Then perform a clean boot and if you want to uninstall applications that you do not use.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/how-to-execute-a-simple-boot-start-in-windows-da2f9573-6eec-00ad-2f8a-a97a1807f3dd

Also, check Task Scheduler in the Library tab and disable all options.

Click the arrow to see what might happen.

You can also install PC Manager, which comes free with Windows, by searching in the Microsoft Store (if it's available where you are).

https://pcmanager.microsoft.com/en-us

Thank

Answer 2

It sounds like you're experiencing significant performance issues with your Windows 11 system, particularly after installing Zoom and performing a clean install of the operating system. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve these issues:

1. Check for Background Processes: Since you mentioned seeing multiple instances of Workloadssessionhost, it may be beneficial to check what processes are running in the background. You can do this in Task Manager by looking under the Processes tab. If there are unnecessary applications or services consuming resources, consider ending those tasks.
2. Run Windows Troubleshooters: Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can help identify and fix performance issues. Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, and run the troubleshooters for Performance and Windows Updates.
3. Manage Startup Programs: High memory usage can sometimes be caused by too many programs starting up with Windows. You can manage startup programs in Task Manager under the Startup tab. Disable any unnecessary applications that you do not need to start automatically.
4. Check for Malware: Although you mentioned running scans, it might be worth running another scan with a different tool, such as Malwarebytes, to ensure that there are no hidden threats affecting performance.
5. Update Drivers: Ensure that all your device drivers are up to date, especially for your graphics card and chipset. You can check for updates through Device Manager or the manufacturer’s website.
6. Consider a System Reset: If the issues persist and you are unable to resolve them, you might consider resetting your PC again. You can do this by going to Settings > System > Recovery and selecting the option to reset your PC while keeping your files.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be beneficial to seek further assistance from Microsoft support or a professional technician.

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References:

• Plethora of issues relating to windows and possibly security. - Microsoft Q&A