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Svchost.exe Imgsvc: What is it & How to Fix its High CPU Usage
Disconnect any non-critical external peripheral
5 min. read
Updated onMarch 29, 2024
updated onMarch 29, 2024
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Key notes
Resource consumption on the PC is an important aspect, especially when it exceeds the normal level, and the device’s performance is affected, as is the case withsvchost.exe (imgsvc).
There’s not much information available on the web, but our research points to a built-in Windows component. Let’s get straight to it!
What is Imgsvc (Windows Image Acquisition) service?
The Windows Image Acquisition service allows imaging applications to interact with imaging hardware. It sets a standard for interaction between the different devices/drivers and programs, thus eliminating the need to develop the application individually for each combination.
So, the same application can control a wide range of devices, with the Windows Image Acquisition service acting as an intermediary, facilitating this interaction. It streamlines things for everyone: application developers, device manufacturers, and end users.
Why is Imgsvc running in task manager?
When Windows Image Acquisition is running in the Task Manager, it indicates that a process is actively employing the image acquisition functionality. This could be a built-in service or a third-party program.
It is usually the case when there’s a printer, scanner, webcam, or camera connected to the PC.
Remember, under ideal conditions, theService Hostwill loadimgsvconly when needed and automatically terminate the process when the image acquisition functionality is no longer utilized by any program.
Is it safe to disable Imgsvc?
If there are no relevant devices connected or programs running, you may consider disabling the service.
But it will affect the video calling experience and will leave applications likeMicrosoft Office Document ImagingandAdobe Acrobatwith reduced functionality, specifically any dealing with image acquisition.
How do I fix Imgsvc high CPU usage on Windows 11?
Before we start with the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones:
If none work, head to the fixes listed next.
When it’s thecorrupt system filesto blame for high CPU usage by imgsvc svchost.exe,running the DISM commandsand SFC scan should help!
It’s also an effective fix againsthigh CPU usage by CxUIUSvc.
If you’d like this process can be greatly simplified by usingspecialized repair tools.This software will scan your system and repair any broken and corrupted files, with just a few clicks and within minutes.
If you get a temporary reprieve from high CPU usage, but the problem keeps reappearing after a restart, considerdisabling automatic driver downloads.
Alternatively, you canupdate the driversfor the printer, scanner, and camera. When doing so, make sure to check the manufacturer’s website for the latest version.
Since imgsvc is linked to Windows Image Acquisition, a built-in component, an in-place upgrade will eliminate any issues and fix the background process. This may take a few hours, but you won’t lose any programs or files.
Problems with built-in processes like imgsvc, especially high resource consumption, are tricky to troubleshoot. They are often responsible for critical tasks, as is the case withCdpsvc (Connected Devices Platform Service), which handles external devices.
An ideal approach is to identify what triggers the issue and then take the necessary action!
For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:High CPU usage,Services
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
