The Killer Network Service, or KNS, operates in the background of your PC and is commonly found in gaming laptops. It is not a Windows application and is known for multiple performance issues. This can result in decreased PC speed and overall performance.
While Killer Network Service is designed to enhance the gaming experience, users may encounter problems with the Killer Network CPU Service, leading to high CPU usage issues. If you’ve been experiencing high CPU usage due to the Killer Network Service, you may encounter problems such as PC lag, constant frame drops while playing games, and similar issues. This article will provide guidance on addressing high CPU usage caused by Killer Network Service.
Is Killer Network Service A Virus?
As you are aware, Killer Network Service functions as a background service and is not a virus. Nevertheless, there are instances where malware may disguise itself as KNS, attempting to access the location or path of every service on the computer. However, the malware will not have the same location. To verify whether the KNS service on your PC is genuine or potentially malware, follow the steps below:
- Open File Explorer on your PC using the Windows + E key combination.
- Navigate to the following path: C:\programfiles\killernetworking\killercontrolcenter. Note: This path is applicable only to users with Killer Network Service installed.
- Right-click on the executable file for KNS and select Properties.
- Check if the path for Killer Network Service matches the one mentioned above.
- If it matches, KNS is not a virus.
- If it differs, it could be malware.
Fix High CPU usage Of Killer Network Service
Therefore, the following methods can be employed to address the problem of elevated CPU usage caused by the Killer Network Service.
Stop Killer Network Service
KNS oversees various processes, and at times, these processes may not be compatible, leading to high CPU errors. If you wish to prevent KNS from utilizing your CPU, follow the steps provided below:
- Open the Start Menu, search for “Service,” and press Enter.
- Scroll through the list and locate Killer Network Service.
- Double-click on KNS and then click on the “Stop” button to halt the service.
Run DISM
If you’ve been encountering this issue, consider running DISM. To do this, follow the steps outlined below:
- Press the Windows key + S, and search for CMD. Right-click on Command Prompt and select the “Run As Administrator” option from the pop-up menu.
- In the Command Prompt, type the following command:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealthand then press Enter to initiate the operation.
This command will automatically repair your system, and the process won’t result in significant data loss. This method can help resolve the high CPU usage issue in Killer Network Service. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, you may explore alternative methods.
By Using The Resource Monitor
The primary purpose of the Resource Monitor command is to identify system issues. Utilizing this command, you can address various problems, including high CPU usage attributed to KNS. To execute this, follow the steps provided below:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run Dialog Box.
- Type “resmon” and click OK.
- Within the Resource Monitor window, locate Killer Network Service. Right-click on it and select End Process.
By Uninstalling the Killer Network Service
Removing KNS through uninstallation is another method to address its high CPU usage. Since this service is not a Windows service, its impact on your processes is minimal. Follow the provided steps to uninstall this service:
- Press the Windows key, search for Control Panel, and click on the first option to open Control Panel.
- Click on the “Uninstall a program” option under the Programs section.
- Locate “Killer Network Manager Suite” and click on Uninstall. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation.
- Similarly, uninstall the Killer Wireless Drivers.
Switch To High Performance
Adjusting your power settings can also be effective in resolving the high CPU usage problem. Follow the provided steps to modify your power settings:
Open Control Panel on your PC.
Search for Power Options and click on it. Choose High Performance.
This adjustment should likely address the issue you have been encountering.
Reset/Reinstall Windows
If the problem persists, consider resetting Windows. This process will erase all settings, and once completed, the issue should be resolved. Follow our guide on resetting a Windows PC. Alternatively, you can opt for a Windows reinstallation instead of a reset.
Conclusion
This article delved into the Killer Network Service and offered troubleshooting steps for addressing its high CPU usage. In all likelihood, these troubleshooting steps should resolve the issue. If none of them proves effective, resetting your Windows 11 to factory settings is a recommended solution.