If you’ve noticed your computer running slower after installing Malwarebytes, you’re not alone. Some users report high CPU usage, slow startup times, or lag while browsing and gaming. While Malwarebytes is designed to protect your system without affecting performance, certain settings or system conflicts can cause temporary slowdowns.
In this guide, you’ll learn why Malwarebytes may slow down your PC and how to fix the issue step by step.
Why Malwarebytes Is Slowing Down Your PC
There are several reasons why performance may drop after installing Malwarebytes:
Real-time protection using high CPU or memory
Scheduled scans running in the background
Conflict with another antivirus program
Outdated version of Malwarebytes
Low system resources (RAM or storage)
Startup programs overloading your system
Understanding the cause helps you apply the right fix quickly.
Step 1: Check CPU and Memory Usage
First, confirm whether Malwarebytes is using excessive resources.
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Look for Malwarebytes processes.
Check CPU and Memory usage.
If usage is unusually high for long periods, adjustments may be needed.
Step 2: Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs
If your PC is slow during startup, Malwarebytes might be launching alongside many other applications.
To manage startup programs:
Open Task Manager.
Click the Startup tab.
Disable unnecessary applications.
Keeping startup programs minimal can significantly improve performance.
Step 3: Adjust Real-Time Protection Settings
Malwarebytes includes multiple protection layers such as:
Web protection
Malware protection
Ransomware protection
Exploit protection
If your PC has limited resources, you can try temporarily disabling one protection layer to test performance.
To adjust settings:
Open Malwarebytes.
Go to Settings.
Navigate to the Security tab.
Turn off a specific protection module (for testing).
If performance improves, you can fine-tune which protections to keep enabled.
Step 4: Schedule Scans for Off-Hours
If Malwarebytes is running scheduled scans during work or gaming sessions, it can slow your system.
To change scan schedules:
Open Malwarebytes.
Go to the Scanner section.
Click on Scheduled Scans.
Adjust the time to when you’re not using your PC.
Running scans overnight or during idle hours helps maintain smooth performance.
Step 5: Check for Software Conflicts
Running two antivirus programs at the same time can significantly slow down your computer.
If you have another security program installed, it may conflict with Malwarebytes.
Options:
Disable real-time protection in one program
Uninstall the secondary antivirus
Add mutual exclusions between the programs
Avoid running two full antivirus engines simultaneously.
Step 6: Update Malwarebytes
An outdated version of Malwarebytes can sometimes cause performance issues.
To update:
Open Malwarebytes.
Click Settings.
Select “Check for updates.”
Install the latest version.
Restart your computer.
Updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes.
Step 7: Add File Exclusions
If specific programs or games are running slowly, Malwarebytes may be scanning them in real time.
To improve performance:
Open Malwarebytes.
Go to Settings.
Select Allow List or Exclusions.
Add trusted programs to the list.
Only exclude files or applications you are confident are safe.
Step 8: Free Up System Resources
If your computer has low RAM or limited storage space, any antivirus software may impact performance.
To improve overall speed:
Delete temporary files
Uninstall unused programs
Upgrade RAM (if possible)
Ensure sufficient free disk space
Malwarebytes performs best on systems with adequate resources.
Step 9: Reinstall Malwarebytes
If performance problems continue, a corrupted installation may be the cause.
Steps:
Uninstall Malwarebytes.
Restart your PC.
Download the latest version from the official website.
Install it again.
A clean reinstall can fix background service issues.
When to Contact Support
If Malwarebytes continues to slow down your PC despite adjustments, contact official support. Provide:
Your PC specifications
Windows version
Malwarebytes version
Screenshot of CPU usage
Support can guide you through advanced troubleshooting steps.
Final Thoughts
Malwarebytes slowing down your PC is usually caused by high resource usage, scan scheduling, or software conflicts. By adjusting protection settings, updating the software, managing startup programs, and freeing up system resources, you can restore your computer’s performance.
With proper configuration, Malwarebytes can provide strong protection without significantly impacting your system speed.