High CPU Usage on Dropbox: How to Permanently Fix It

Syncing issues often lead to this problem

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Dropbox is a cloud-based file hosting platform that allows you to store and share files, collaborate on projects, etc. Lately, many users report Dropbox’s high CPU usage causing their PCs to be slow and unstable.

Also, you can experienceDropbox frequently crashingon your computer.

Why is Dropbox taking up so much CPU?

Dropbox is a high-process platform because it takes a lot of resources and time f to load its files, sync and update them, and share them. Also, it undergoes a self-monitoring process that helps it check for version updates. So, many activities andrequests on Dropboxmay cause high CPU usage.

However, some notable factors may cause Dropbox to take so much CPU. Some are:

These causes may vary in different PCs. Nonetheless, you can fix them by troubleshooting Dropbox and your PC.

How do I fix the high CPU usage on Dropbox?

Go through these preliminary checks:

If the problem persists, go ahead with the fixes below.

1. Use Selective Sync to choose folders to store on your hard drive

Selective sync lets you select the folders to store on your computer’s hard drive among the folders stored in your Dropbox account. Read abouthow to use Selective sync on Dropboxfor more information.

2. Disable background apps

Repeat the same process for all apps you want to restrict background permissions. Check our article for othermethods to turn off background apps in Windows 11if you have issues using the steps above.

3. Reinstall the Dropbox app

It will fix corrupt installation files and other issues that can cause the issue. You can check our guide onwhat to do if Dropbox fails to uninstallon Windows 11.

4. Add Dropbox as an exception in Firewall settings

Allowing Dropbox as an exception in Windows Firewall prevents the firewall from checking or delaying its processes.

Alternatively, you can check our guide onfixing Dropbox not workingon Windows 11. We also recommend you readhow to fix the files can’t be moved erroron Dropbox.

For further questions or suggestions, kindly drop them in the comments section.

High CPU Usage on Dropbox: How to Permanently Fix It#

Why is Dropbox taking up so much CPU?#

How do I fix the high CPU usage on Dropbox?#

1. Use Selective Sync to choose folders to store on your hard drive#

2. Disable background apps#

3. Reinstall the Dropbox app#

4. Add Dropbox as an exception in Firewall settings#