Uploaded December 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

---

In this video, we’ll show you what to do if WindowServer starts using lots of CPU cycles and slows down your Mac.
Start your free CleanMyMac trial here: bit.ly/4eR81AM

How to reduce WindowServer CPU usage on your Mac:

1. Close windows you don’t need
Press Option-Command-Escape to launch the Force Quit menu and close apps you do not use.

2. Run Smart Care to optimize your Mac
👉 Get a free CleanMyMac trial and run five optimization tasks in one go with Smart Care: bit.ly/4eR81AM

3. Restart your Mac
Restart your Mac to free up memory, delete caches and other temporary files.
If your Mac still feels slow after the restart, you should investigate that.

Watch this video to find out why your Mac may run slowly and how to fix it: youtube.com/watch?v=V-5xim4jDpI

4. Reduce the number of desktops in Mission Control
Swipe up using three fingers or press Control-Up Arrow to enter Mission Control.
Hover your mouse over any unused desktops.
Click on the ‘x’ in the corner of the desktop to close it.

5. Turn off visual effects
Go to System Settings – Accessibility.
Select Display.
Enable the option that says Reduce transparency.

Contents:

00:00 — Intro
00:25 — Check if WindowServer is overusing CPU
00:46 — Close unneeded windows
01:02 — Run Smart Care to optimize your Mac
01:28 — Restart your Mac
01:51 — Reduce the number of desktops in Mission Control
02:10 — Turn off visual effects
02:27 — Outro