Fixing AVCTP High CPU Usage on Windows 10 & 11

If you've noticed that your Windows system is heating up in more ways than one—specifically, with high CPU usage attributed to the Audio/Video Control Transport Protocol (AVCTP)—you’re not alone. Whether you’re using Windows 11 or 10, this issue can lead to slow performance and disrupt your favorite Bluetooth audio experience. But fear not! In this guide, we’ll walk through several effective solutions to tackle the notorious AVCTP high CPU usage.

What Is AVCTP?​

Before we dive into solutions, let's break down what AVCTP actually does. AVCTP stands for Audio/Video Control Transport Protocol. It’s a system component that facilitates communication between your Windows PC and Bluetooth-enabled devices like wireless headphones, speakers, and even car audio systems. Essentially, AVCTP manages commands for media playback—think play, pause, and stop—but when it goes haywire, it can spike CPU usage and cause frustration.

Symptoms of AVCTP High CPU Usage​

• Sluggish System Performance: Windows feels slow and unresponsive, especially during multimedia tasks.
• Audio/Video Playback Issues: Problems with playing audio or video from Bluetooth devices.
• Increased Heat: Your laptop might feel warmer than usual due to prolonged high CPU activity.

How to Fix AVCTP High CPU Usage​

1. Run the Bluetooth Troubleshooter​

The first logical step is to enlist Windows’ built-in troubleshooting tools. Here's how:

• Navigate to the Search bar, type Bluetooth Troubleshooter, and select Find and Fix Problems with Bluetooth Devices.
• In the troubleshooter window, click on Advanced, then check the box for Apply repairs automatically and hit Next.

This process can pinpoint underlying connectivity issues that might lead to enhanced CPU usage.

2. Repair Your Operating System​

Sometimes, it’s not just about AVCTP. A corrupted system image can also wreak havoc. Follow these steps:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Execute these commands one by one to repair your system:
  • sfc /scannow (to run the System File Checker)
  • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  • Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

If all else fails, consider using the Windows Installation Media for a comprehensive repair.

3. Update or Reinstall the Bluetooth Driver​

In many cases, the culprit is an outdated or corrupt Bluetooth driver. Here’s how to tackle that:

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates.
• Alternatively, navigate to Device Manager, find your Bluetooth driver, right-click, and select to Update Driver. If updating doesn’t work, you can uninstall the driver and then download the latest version from the manufacturer's website.

4. Disable AVCTP Service​

If AVCTP continues to hog CPU resources, you might consider disabling the service altogether—understanding that this will disable Bluetooth media control functionality:

• Access the Search bar again, type Services, and open it.
• Locate AVCTP Service, double-click it, and select Stop.
• After stopping it, you'll have the option to disable it:
  • Click on the Startup type drop-down menu and select Disabled, then hit Apply and OK.

Caution:​

Disabling AVCTP could limit your ability to control media playback through Bluetooth devices, so weigh this option carefully.

Additional Tips for Managing High CPU Usage​

• Task Management: Use Task Manager to identify processes consuming excessive CPU resources.
• Windows Updates: Always ensure your operating system and drivers are up to date.
• Close Unnecessary Applications: Simplifying the number of running applications can also relieve CPU strain.

Conclusion​

Experiencing high CPU usage from AVCTP can be frustrating, but with a few straightforward troubleshooting steps, you can reclaim your computer's performance. Whether through running troubleshooters, repairing system files, updating drivers, or even disabling the AVCTP service when necessary, there are effective ways to resolve this issue.
Feel free to share your experiences or additional tips in the comments below. Together, we can keep our Windows systems running smoothly!

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Source: The Windows Club Fix AVCTP High CPU usage on Windows computer