If you’ve noticed your computer slowing down due to the DSA Service consuming excessive memory or CPU resources, you’re not alone. This issue, often associated with the Intel(R) Driver & Support Assistant, can significantly impact system performance. Let’s explore what causes this problem and how to fix it effectively.
What is the DSA Service?
DSA stands for Driver and Support Assistant, a program developed by Intel to help users keep their drivers up to date. While it’s a useful tool, it can sometimes cause high resource usage, leading to system slowdowns.
Before we dive into solutions, it’s important to verify that the DSA Service on your system is legitimate and not malware masquerading as the Intel tool. Right-click on the DSA Service in Task Manager, select “Open file location,” and ensure it leads to:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Intel\Driver and Support AssistantIf the location is different, run a full system scan with your antivirus software to remove any potential malware.
Methods to Fix DSA Service High Memory or CPU Usage
Method 1: End the DSA Service and Restart Your Computer
Step 1: Open Task Manager by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting “Task Manager” or pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
Step 2: In the Processes tab, find “DSA Service” or “Intel(R) Driver & Support Assistant”.
Step 3: Right-click on the service and select “End task”.
Step 4: Restart your computer to see if the issue resolves.
This method often fixes temporary glitches causing high resource usage.
Method 2: Update Intel Driver & Support Assistant
Step 1: Visit the official Intel website and download the latest version of Intel Driver & Support Assistant.
Step 2: Install the updated version, which may include bug fixes for high resource usage.
Step 3: Restart your computer and check if the problem persists.
Keeping the software up-to-date often resolves performance issues and bugs.
Method 3: Disable the DSA Service
Step 1: Press Win + R, type “services.msc”, and press Enter to open the Services window.
Step 2: Locate “Intel(R) Driver & Support Assistant” in the list.
Step 3: Right-click on it and select “Properties”.
Step 4: Change the “Startup type” to “Disabled” and click “Stop” under “Service status”.
Step 5: Click “Apply” and then “OK”.
Step 6: Restart your computer.
This method prevents the service from running automatically, potentially reducing resource usage. However, you won’t receive automatic driver updates, so remember to check for updates manually.
Method 4: Uninstall Intel Driver and Support Assistant
Step 1: Press Win + I to open Settings.
Step 2: Go to “Apps” > “Apps & features”.
Step 3: Search for “Intel(R) Driver & Support Assistant”.
Step 4: Click on it and select “Uninstall”. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.
Step 5: Restart your computer.
After uninstalling, you can still update drivers manually through Device Manager or by downloading them directly from manufacturers’ websites.
Additional Considerations
If you’re experiencing high CPU or memory usage but aren’t sure it’s related to the DSA Service, consider these general troubleshooting steps:
- Run an SFC (System File Checker) scan to repair corrupted system files.
- Perform a full antivirus scan to check for malware.
- Update all your device drivers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
- Check for and install any pending Windows updates.
Remember, while the Intel Driver & Support Assistant can be helpful, it’s not essential for system operation. You can always manage your drivers manually if you prefer not to use the automated tool.
By following these methods, you should be able to resolve the high memory and CPU usage caused by the DSA Service. If problems persist, consider seeking help from a professional technician or contacting Intel support for further assistance.