How to Check CPU, RAM, and Disk Usage in Windows 11
If your Windows 11 computer feels slow, freezes randomly, or overheats, the first thing you should check is CPU, RAM, and disk usage. These three resources determine how well your system performs during daily tasks.
In this guide, you’ll learn multiple easy ways to check CPU, memory, and disk usage in Windows 11, what the numbers mean, and what to do if usage is too high.
Why Checking System Usage Is Important
High CPU, RAM, or disk usage can cause:
- Slow system performance
- Lagging apps and browsers
- Long startup time
- Overheating issues
- Unexpected system freezes
Monitoring resource usage helps you identify which apps or background processes are causing problems before your system becomes unstable.
Method 1: Check CPU, RAM, and Disk Usage Using Task Manager
Task Manager is the fastest and easiest way to monitor system resources in Windows 11.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard
- Click More details if Task Manager opens in compact mode
- Open the Processes tab
Here you’ll see real-time usage of:
- CPU (%)
- Memory (RAM)
- Disk
Click on any column header to sort apps by highest usage.
If CPU usage stays above 80% or disk usage hits 100%, your system may experience significant slowdowns.
Method 2: Use the Performance Tab for Detailed Information
For deeper insights, switch to the Performance tab in Task Manager.
- CPU: View speed, cores, threads, and uptime
- Memory: Check total RAM, available memory, and usage percentage
- Disk: Monitor read/write speed and active time
This section is useful if you want to diagnose long-term performance problems.
Method 3: Check Resource Usage Using Windows Settings
Windows 11 Settings also provide basic performance insights.
Steps:
- Open Settings
- Go to System → About
- Check installed RAM and system specifications
While Settings doesn’t show real-time usage like Task Manager, it helps you understand your hardware limits.
What Is Normal CPU, RAM, and Disk Usage?
- CPU: 5–15% when idle
- RAM: 30–50% on idle systems
- Disk: 0–10% when idle
If your system exceeds these numbers consistently, optimization is required.
What to Do If CPU Usage Is Too High
High CPU usage is commonly caused by background apps, browser tabs, or system updates.
You can follow this complete guide to fix the issue:
Windows 11 High CPU Usage – How to Fix
What to Do If RAM Usage Is Too High
Insufficient RAM can slow multitasking and cause app crashes.
Read this step-by-step tutorial:
Windows 11 Uses Too Much RAM – Fix High Memory Usage
What to Do If Disk Usage Is 100%
Disk usage stuck at 100% often results in extreme lag and slow boot times.
Follow this guide to resolve it:
Windows 11 Disk Usage 100% – How to Fix
Bonus Tip: Reduce Slow Startup Issues
Many performance problems start during boot.
You can optimize startup performance here:
Why Is Windows 11 So Slow on Startup?
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to check CPU, RAM, and disk usage in Windows 11 is essential for maintaining a fast and stable system. Regular monitoring helps you catch issues early and apply the right fixes before performance degrades.
If you frequently experience slowdowns, consider optimizing startup apps, updating drivers, and upgrading hardware when necessary.