How To Fix Runtime Broker High Memory Usage. In this article, you will read what is Runtime Broker and the methods To fix high memory or CPU usage from Runtime Broker.
What is Runtime Broker?
Runtime Broker is a system process that has been part of Windows since the release of Windows 8 till now. This background service, found in the Windows/System32 directory, plays a vital role in managing permissions for applications installed via the Microsoft Store (also known as Metro or UWP apps).
Its main function is to ensure that these applications are properly declaring their required permissions, like access to your microphone, camera, or location, before they’re allowed to run. Runtime Broker operates quietly in the background, and under normal circumstances, it consumes minimal system resources.
Why Does Runtime Broker Use So Much Memory Sometimes?
While it’s designed to be lightweight, you may occasionally notice a spike in its memory or CPU usage. This typically happens when you open a Microsoft Store app. As Runtime Broker evaluates the permissions requested by the app, resource usage can temporarily increase. However, opening multiple Metro apps should not lead to cumulative memory bloat.
If you observe that Runtime Broker is consistently consuming a high amount of system resources, even when no Store apps are running, it might indicate an underlying issue. Here are some steps to troubleshoot this issue.
How To Fix Runtime Broker High Memory Usage:
Method 1 – Disable Windows Tips and Suggestions:
Windows 10 includes a feature that offers tips and recommendations while you use your computer. This feature behaves similarly to a Store app, which can cause the Runtime Broker to use more resources than expected.
Here’s how to turn it off:
1.Open Settings.
2.Navigate to System > Notifications & actions.
3.On the right side, uncheck the option that says: “Get tips, tricks, and suggestions as you use Windows.”
4.Disabling this feature may reduce Runtime Broker’s activity.
Method 2 – Identify Faulty or Glitchy Apps:
If the issue persists, there could be a particular Store app that’s misbehaving. Apps that aren’t updated or have bugs may keep triggering the Runtime Broker unnecessarily. Try the following steps:
1,Make sure that all the Microsoft Store apps are updated.
2.If the problem continues, uninstall the apps one by one to find the culprit.
3.Observe system behaviour after each removal to identify the app responsible for the spike.
4.This method may take time, but it can help isolate the root cause.
Method 3 – Restart the Runtime Broker Process via Task Manager:
Although Runtime Broker is a protected system process and shouldn’t be disabled permanently, restarting it can sometimes fix temporary glitches. Follow these steps:
1.Press Win + X and select Task Manager.
2.Find Runtime Broker under the Processes tab.
3.Right-click it and select End Task.
4.Restart your computer to reset the process properly.
Keep in mind that Metro apps might not function correctly until the Runtime Broker restarts automatically, which usually happens shortly after rebooting.
Final Thoughts:
Runtime Broker is an essential part of the Windows operating system that ensures your privacy and app security. While it usually runs silently in the background, occasional spikes in resource usage can happen. The solutions above should help you regain control if the process starts consuming too much CPU or memory.
Avoid disabling Runtime Broker altogether, as it plays a crucial role in protecting your system. Instead, focus on minimising its impact through proper system settings and app management.