Windows 11 24H2: Intel CPU Performance Issues
The Windows 11 24H2 update was expected to bring exciting new features. Many users hoped it would make their computers faster and better. The update includes changes for security, speed, and design. Microsoft said it would also help save battery and improve multitasking.
However, some users now face big problems. They report Intel CPU performance issues after installing the update. Their computers have become slow. Games and apps do not run smoothly. Even opening a website or watching a video takes longer than before.
These issues mostly affect people with Intel CPUs. Many of them use newer models like Core Ultra chips. This is surprising because newer chips should work better, not worse. The problems have made many users unhappy.
This article will explain what is causing the problems. It will also show who is affected and how to fix the issues. By the end, you will know how to avoid these problems and how to keep your system running well. Let us take a closer look.
Background on Windows 11 24H2 and Intel CPUs
Windows 11 24H2 Update Details
The Windows 11 24H2 update started rolling out in 2025. Microsoft said the update would bring smarter features, better power use, and support for the latest hardware. It also added AI tools to help with tasks. Many people downloaded the update right away.
This update was meant to be helpful. It was supposed to improve how your computer runs. It should have made the system feel faster and more stable. But for many Intel users, it did the opposite.
Intel CPU Generations Affected
People with many types of Intel CPUs are having problems. Most reports come from users with 11th Gen to 14th Gen Intel chips. This includes the new Core Ultra series. These CPUs are very new, so performance problems are unexpected.
Even users with older Intel chips say their systems feel slower. This includes laptops and desktops. The issue seems to be wide and not limited to just one CPU type. This makes it more serious.
Initial Expectations vs. Reality
Before the update, users hoped to see better performance. But after installing it, many found their systems laggy. They expected new features, not new problems. Some people tried reinstalling drivers, but the issues stayed.
This big gap between what people expected and what they got caused a lot of frustration. Many users are now looking for answers and fixes.
Identifying the Performance Issues
User Reports and Complaints
After the update, many people shared their problems online. Forums like Reddit, Microsoft Answers, and tech blogs were filled with complaints. The stories were similar. People said their computers became hot and slow. Some said their games now stutter.
One common report is that apps slow down when you switch to another window. This means that when an app is not in focus, it does not work well. People who multitask feel this the most. They keep several apps open and move between them often.
Specific Problems Noted
Slow App Performance: Apps take longer to load. When you switch windows, the app may freeze or lag.
Gaming Lag: People who play games say they notice stutters. The Windows 11 24H2 update causing gaming lag makes their games hard to play.
Sound Driver Conflicts: Some users report that the sound stops working. This is linked to Intel Smart Sound Technology driver issues in Windows 11, which seem to be common after the update.
Hot CPUs: Computers get hot even when doing simple things. This shows that Windows 11 24H2 is causing high CPU temperatures.
Throttling: Many users face throttling. This means the CPU slows itself down. This is often noticed when the app is not on the main screen. Some tried the Windows 11 24H2 Intel CPU throttling fix, but results vary.
Quantitative Data
Some users tested their CPU speed before and after the update. They noticed big drops. A CPU that worked at 4 GHz now runs at 3 GHz. Games lose 10 to 20 frames per second. CPU temperatures rose by 10°C or more. These numbers show the problem is real.
Technical Analysis of the Causes
Thread Director and Power Management
Windows 11 uses something called Thread Director. It sends tasks to different CPU cores. This helps save power and improve performance. But in 24H2, this system may not work well with Intel CPUs. Tasks go to the wrong cores. This causes apps to run slower.
Power management settings may also cause issues. The system may try too hard to save energy. This makes the CPU less active, even when you need power. It can result in a poor experience.
Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) Driver Conflicts
SST drivers help with sound. They control the microphone, speakers, and other parts of the audio. But in 24H2, many of these drivers crash or fail to work. This slows the whole system. The Intel Smart Sound Technology driver issues in Windows 11 are well-known now.
Microcode and BIOS Updates
Intel and motherboard makers sometimes release microcode updates. These are tiny programs that help the CPU work. But some recent updates may not match well with 24H2. BIOS settings might also make the system slower. Some people reported Intel CPU performance degradation after Windows 11 update after changing BIOS options or updating firmware.
Impact on Different User Groups
Gamers
Gamers are among the worst affected. They say their games lag more now. Frame rates drop. Input delays make gameplay feel slow. The Windows 11 24H2 update causing gaming lag makes fast-paced games hard to enjoy. This is a big issue for people who use their PC mainly for gaming.
Content Creators and Professionals
People who use apps for work also face problems. Video editing apps now take longer to export. 3D tools render more slowly. Tasks that need strong CPU power are not smooth anymore. Many of these users notice Intel Core Ultra performance issues in Windows 11, especially on newer laptops and desktops.
General Users
Even basic users face trouble. Websites load slowly. Videos stutter. Apps open with delays. The battery drains faster. These Windows 11 24H2 performance problems with Intel processors affect everyone, not just advanced users.
Official Responses and Ongoing Investigations
Microsoft’s Acknowledgment
Microsoft said they are aware of the issue. They are collecting feedback. Engineers are testing the problems and working on patches. They advise users to send feedback through the Feedback Hub.
Intel’s Position
Intel has also confirmed that they are investigating. They are checking the new update and how it interacts with their CPUs. They may release new drivers or BIOS updates soon.
Collaborative Efforts
Both companies are now working together. They want to find the root cause. A joint solution may take time, but it is being developed. Until then, users are advised to try simple fixes or roll back changes.
Potential Workarounds and Solutions
System Tweaks
Change Power Settings: Set the power plan to “High Performance.” This gives the CPU more freedom.
Roll Back Drivers: Use older, stable Intel drivers. This helps reduce conflicts.
Disable Background Apps: This frees up CPU resources.
These small tweaks may help with the Windows 11 24H2 Intel CPU throttling fix.
Use of Optimization Tools
You can also use tools like CL Debloat. These tools remove unwanted features. They clean the system and improve speed. This is an easy way to optimize Intel CPU performance after Windows 11 update.
Awaiting Official Patches
Microsoft and Intel will release updates soon. Keep checking for system updates. These may fix the issues without needing any manual changes.
Preventative Measures for Future Updates
Best Practices Before Updating
Back Up Your Files: Always save your data before a big update.
Read Release Notes: Know what is being changed.
Wait a Few Weeks: Let others test the update first.
These steps help prevent CPU throttling in Windows 11 24H2.
Community Engagement
Join forums like Reddit and Microsoft Answers. Share your experience. Your feedback helps developers fix problems faster.
Staying Informed
Follow official blogs. Use the Feedback Hub. Watch for updates. This helps you stay ahead of problems.
Conclusion
The Intel CPU performance issues after the Windows 11 24H2 update are real. Many users have shared their concerns. Gamers, creators, and everyday users are all affected.
Microsoft and Intel know about the issues. Fixes are being developed. Until then, small tweaks and tools can help. Always back up your system and stay informed. Be careful with updates.
If you are facing these problems, try the tips in this post. Share your results with others. Working together, we can find the best solutions.