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If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 24H2, you might want to keep an eye on your system’s performance—especially when you minimize your applications. A recent report from Neowin highlights a perplexing behavior where the OS seems to “quietly throttle” the CPU, essentially slowing down the system when it isn’t the center of attention.

A desktop computer setup with Windows 11 displayed on the screen in a dimly lit office.
What’s Happening Under the Hood?​

During routine testing, one user discovered that on an Intel Ultra 9 285K CPU paired with an ASRock motherboard, Windows 11 24H2 entered a kind of power-saving mode when an application window was not in focus. Both Prime95 (a synthetic stress test) and 7-Zip benchmark (a real-world archiving task) revealed that once an app is minimized, the CPU’s clock speed drops dramatically.
Key observations include:
  • Aggressive Downclocking: When minimized, the system significantly reduces CPU clock speeds, potentially to conserve energy.
  • Hardware Specific: The issue was confirmed on an Intel Ultra 9 285K. Interestingly, similar behavior was not noted on an Intel i9-12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 9950X, suggesting that the problem may be tied to certain hardware architectures.
  • Official Support Yet Unexpected Behavior: Despite Microsoft officially supporting the Intel Ultra 9 285K on Windows 11 24H2 according to its CPU support list, this throttling phenomenon raises questions about whether it’s an intentional power-saving tactic or a bug that’s slipping under the radar.
Summary: Windows 11 24H2 may throttle CPU performance when apps are minimized—a behavior observed predominantly on select Intel processors.

The Broader Implications for Users​

For most everyday users, this throttling might go unnoticed if they primarily use applications in full-screen mode. However, if you rely on background tasks, streaming processes, or gaming applications that require continuous processing even when not in the foreground, you could experience unwanted slowdowns or performance hiccups.
Consider these points:
  • Background Application Performance: Applications running in the background may suffer if the CPU enters a low-power state unexpectedly.
  • Gaming and Real-Time Processes: Gamers might see a dip in performance or even experience crashes, as has been anecdotally reported in connection with recent patches (KB5050094 / KB5051987).
  • Inconsistent Behavior: The fact that this performance drop isn’t universal—even among high-end CPUs—means that the issue might depend on how well your hardware aligns with this new update’s aggressive power management strategies.
Summary: Users with multitasking needs or applications that run continuously in the background could feel the impact of this throttling behavior.

Why Is This Happening?​

Windows 11 has been evolving rapidly, with each update introducing tweaks aimed at optimizing power consumption and performance. Ideally, reducing the CPU speed when an application is minimized seems like a clever way to conserve power. However, when this feature kicks in without clear user indication or control, the unintended consequence can be a significant drop in performance.
A few considerations include:
  • Power Management vs. Performance: While power-saving modes are crucial for energy efficiency, they should not interfere with the performance of applications that rely on consistent processing power.
  • Testing Variability: The reported discrepancies—where the bug surfaces on certain CPUs (like the Intel Ultra 9 285K) but not on others (such as the i9-12900K or Ryzen 9 9950X)—indicate that the implementation might be too aggressive on specific hardware configurations.
  • Historical Patterns: This isn’t the first time Windows 11 has faced scrutiny over inconsistent performance. Earlier reports and discussions on the forum have touched on similar issues, where under certain conditions, system performance doesn’t match user expectations.
Summary: The behavior likely stems from overly aggressive power management settings that may benefit some users energetically but penalize overall performance in others.

What Can You Do?​

If you suspect that your system is falling victim to this stealthy throttling, here are some steps you might consider:
  • Monitor Task Manager: Keep an eye on your CPU clock speeds using Task Manager. Look for noticeable dips when you minimize applications.
  • Experiment with Settings: Try adjusting Windows power settings. Switching from a “Balanced” profile to a “High Performance” mode might mitigate the issue.
  • Read the Patch Notes: Stay updated on new hotfixes or further patches from Microsoft. Reports suggest that recent patches (KB5050094 / KB5051987) might interplay with this behavior.
  • Community Feedback: Engage with community discussions. As noted on Windows Forum threads—such as our discussions on unexpected system throttling—many users share their experiences and potential workarounds.
Summary: By monitoring system performance and adjusting power settings, you may be able to counteract the unintended throttling until an official fix is rolled out.

The Bigger Picture: Energy Efficiency vs. Performance​

This latest twist in Windows 11 24H2 performance brings us back to the perennial debate: energy efficiency versus peak performance. While enhanced power-saving features are beneficial from an environmental and battery-life perspective, they must be carefully balanced against the need for high performance, especially for power users and gamers.
  • Economic Savings vs. Energy Needs: For office environments or casual home use, such throttling might result in marginal energy savings without impacting day-to-day tasks. However, for users running resource-intensive applications or games, even minor slowdowns could lead to noticeable performance degradation.
  • Developer Intentions: It remains unclear if Microsoft designed this throttling behavior deliberately with the idea that most users don’t require maximum performance when they’re not actively engaging with an application, or if it is simply a bug. This ambiguity fuels ongoing community debates and technical investigations.
Summary: The challenge lies in ensuring that performance optimizations designed to save power don’t inadvertently harm the user experience, a balance that remains elusive in some edge cases.

Conclusion​

The discovery that Windows 11 24H2 might throttle CPU performance when applications are minimized is a reminder that even the most modern operating systems can exhibit unexpected behavior. While the potential energy savings are enticing, the impact on performance—particularly for high-demand tasks—cannot be ignored.
As we continue to evolve and push the boundaries of OS efficiency, users are encouraged to stay abreast of community feedback and adjust their system settings as necessary. Whether this behavior represents an intentional, albeit overly aggressive, power-saving feature or an unintended bug remains to be seen, but what’s clear is that vigilance is key.
Final Summary: Monitor your system, adjust power settings if needed, and join the conversation on Windows Forum to share your experiences. Your input might just help shape the next update to strike the right balance between efficiency and performance.
Stay tuned for further insights as we continue to track and analyze updates surrounding Windows 11 24H2. Your system’s performance should always be in your control, even when you’re not looking.

Source: Neowin Windows 11 24H2 might quietly throttle and slow your system when you aren't paying attention
 

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A curved widescreen monitor and laptop displaying software interfaces on a dark desk.
Windows 11 24H2 CPU Issues Stir Insider Fixes​

Windows 11 remains a subject of heated debate. While some say “Windows sucks,” it's hard to argue against its sheer ubiquity—even if the latest 24H2 update is leaving some users, especially those running select Intel CPUs, in a performance lurch. Today, we dive deep into recent reports highlighting performance throttling issues on Intel’s cutting-edge processors and juxtapose them with promising tweaks from a Windows Insider Preview update.

Intel CPU Performance Issues in Windows 11 24H2​

Recent reviews have shone a spotlight on a major headache for users with select Intel CPUs, particularly the Intel Ultra 9 285K. Here’s what’s happening:
  • Unintended Throttling
    Several reports indicate aggressive throttling on Intel Ultra 9 285K CPUs. Despite Microsoft listing this model as fully supported, users have seen the system unexpectedly downshift performance. When applications lose focus, the OS appears to trigger a power-saving mode that limits CPU clock speeds, leading to noticeable slowdowns and game crashes.
  • Patch-Related Anomalies
    Some of these performance hiccups seem to have emerged following recent patches, including KB5050094 and KB5051987. Users reported that after upgrading, benchmarks such as Prime95 and 7-Zip exhibited lower overall CPU usage when tasks were running in the background. The symptoms are isolated to these high-end CPUs, as similar issues were not observed on Intel’s i9-12900K or AMD’s Ryzen 9 9950X.
  • Real-World Impact
    For gamers and intensive application users, these throttling issues are more than just a nuisance—they’re a dealbreaker. Reports from various tech forums indicate that the performance drops are significant enough to prompt system slowdowns, game crashes, and unexpected behavior. Some users have even lamented the forced updates and instability, while eyeing potential alternatives like SteamOS—even if, for now, there isn’t a real alternative to Windows.
In essence, if you’re sporting the latest Intel Ultra 9 285K in an ASRock-based system or similar, your system might not be performing at its peak, even though on paper it should. These inconsistencies are a stark reminder that even flagship hardware can fall victim to software quirks, leaving users in a frustrating limbo.

Insider Preview: Task Manager Reboot and Feature Tweaks​

While performance issues continue to plague certain segments, not all news from Microsoft is doom and gloom. A recent Windows 11 Insider Preview Build (26120.3360) has been rolled out to Dev and Beta channels, and it brings a fresh focus on diagnostic clarity and user interface improvements—a move that might help users better understand what’s happening under the hood.
  • Task Manager Gets a Tune-Up
    One of the marquee changes is a complete revamp of Task Manager. Gone are the days of ambiguous CPU usage metrics. The updated Task Manager now aligns its CPU workload figures with industry-standard measurements, ensuring consistency across different system monitors and third-party tools. For those who like familiarity, an optional “CPU Utility” column remains available but hidden by default. This tweak is more than cosmetic—it equips users with precise data needed for troubleshooting performance inconsistencies.
  • Enhanced Lock Screen & Sharing Options
    Beyond Task Manager, this Insider update also introduces new lock screen widgets for regions in the European Economic Area. Users can now customize their lock screen by rearranging widgets like Weather, Watchlist, Sports, and Traffic. Additionally, File Explorer has received a boost with new sharing capabilities directly accessible from the right-click context menu. These changes may seem minor in comparison to performance woes, but they contribute to a more refined, user-friendly experience.
  • Diagnostic Implications
    With accurate real-time CPU metrics and improved visibility into system performance, tech-savvy users can now better pinpoint anomalies. If your PC suddenly slows down or underperforms when tasks are minimized, the new Task Manager could provide deeper insight into whether throttling is due to OS power-save triggers or other underlying issues. In other words, even if the throttling bug persists for now, you have better tools at your disposal to diagnose and potentially work around it.

What Does This Mean for the Windows Ecosystem?​

The dual reality of Windows 11 24H2 is a mixed bag—on one side, you have unexplained performance issues on next-gen Intel CPUs, and on the other, a proactive effort from Microsoft to refine diagnostic tools. So, what can we take away from this?
  • Innovation vs. Stability
    Microsoft’s continuous stream of updates underscores the balancing act between innovation and rock-solid stability. Forced updates and experimental features can expose users to growing pains, especially on the bleeding edge of hardware support. Is it a case of “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it”? Not quite—sometimes updates meant to improve efficiency inadvertently drive performance into the red zone.
  • Enhanced Diagnostics Aid Troubleshooting
    With the revamped Task Manager now offering industry-standard metrics, system administrators and power users have a better lens through which to observe real-time CPU performance. This can help quickly pinpoint whether performance issues are caused by throttling, background power-saving settings, or other factors. In turn, this data could drive more targeted hotfixes down the road.
  • User Frustration and Future Prospects
    The frustration expressed by users encountering sporadic performance problems is palpable. The mismatch between advertised support for certain CPUs and the real-world performance leaves many questioning whether additional patches or even BIOS updates might be the only remedy. While some have flirted with the idea of alternative operating systems like SteamOS, market inertia means that, for now, Windows remains the dominant—and sometimes maddening—choice.
  • A Call for Cautious Upgrades
    For users considering an upgrade to Windows 11 24H2, caution is advised, especially if you rely on high-performance Intel hardware. Monitoring community feedback and perhaps testing critical workloads on a separate system might prevent being caught off-guard by potential throttling issues.

Final Thoughts​

Windows 11 24H2 encapsulates the ongoing evolution of modern operating systems—a blend of rapid innovation, unexpected performance pitfalls, and responsive fixes. For users with select Intel CPUs, the aggressive power-saving throttling observed in recent patches is a concerning reminder that even the most robust hardware can suffer from software missteps. Conversely, the latest Insider Preview build signals Microsoft’s willingness to address diagnostic shortcomings by providing more detailed and accurate performance metrics through Task Manager and additional UI enhancements.

Key Takeaways:​

  • Performance Concerns: Windows 11 24H2 has shown aggressive throttling on Intel Ultra 9 285K CPUs, particularly during background tasks. This is largely linked to recent patches.
  • Diagnostic Improvements: The Insider Preview Build 26120.3360 revamps Task Manager to offer industry-standard CPU metrics, thus empowering users to better troubleshoot issues.
  • Balancing Act: Microsoft is caught between pushing innovative features and ensuring optimal stability, leaving users to navigate the pros and cons of forced updates.
  • User Advice: If you’re using high-end Intel hardware, monitor performance closely, and consider delaying updates if stability is paramount.
While the operating system often seems like a moving target, incremental improvements like these demonstrate that Microsoft is, at least for now, listening. Whether these adjustments will pave the way for a smoother user experience remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: for Windows users, staying informed and keeping a critical eye on every update is more essential than ever.
Stay tuned to WindowsForum.com for more expert analyses and in-depth discussions on these evolving challenges in the Windows ecosystem.

Source 1: Windows 11 24H2 is having performance issues on select CPUs, again
Source 2: Windows 11 24H2 can wreck your PC if you have this Intel CPU
Source 3: Windows 11 Insider Preview update brings a sharper focus on accuracy and performance
 

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A desktop computer setup with a monitor displaying a vibrant blue and pink abstract wallpaper.
Windows 11 24H2: Intel Throttling Woes & AMD Driver Innovations​

Microsoft’s Windows 11 has long had a reputation for throwing curveballs post-update, and the latest version 24H2 is no exception. Recent reports reveal two contrasting narratives unfolding in the Windows ecosystem: on one hand, Intel-powered machines are experiencing disquieting performance throttling when applications run in the background; on the other, AMD enthusiasts have reason to celebrate with a new chipset driver that boosts app compatibility and security features. Let’s dive into the details and see what this means for you.

Intel CPU Throttling Under Windows 11 24H2​

What’s Happening?​

Windows 11 24H2 appears to be inducing performance throttling on certain Intel processors. According to reports shared by tech-savvy users, including detailed tests submitted by a Borncity reader, a notable performance degradation occurs when applications are minimized or not in focus. In one case, a 7zip benchmark showed the system’s performance slashed almost in half once the application was minimized.
  • Who’s Affected?
    The issue was specifically observed on Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285K, with hints that other processors in the Ultra 200 series might experience similar problems. Interestingly, early investigations suggest that high-end alternatives like the Intel Core i9 12900K or AMD Ryzen 9 9950X remain unaffected.
  • The Culprit?
    The troubles may have begun with a microcode update—likely intended to correct startup errors on the affected systems—but the workaround (applying Intel Microcode update 0x116) seems to have come with unintended side effects. Spikes in CPU activity, visible in Windows Task Manager, hint at throttling mechanisms kicking in whenever an application loses focus.

Why Is This a Concern?​

For gamers and power users, every drop in performance can mean a lagging game frame or a delayed response during intensive tasks. Microsoft’s complex interplay of hardware, drivers, BIOS configurations, and third-party software means that even well-tested updates can yield unpredictable results. As one report wryly noted, post-update issues have almost become a “way of life.” Whether it’s the Ubisoft game hiccups of yesteryear or this latest processor-specific throttling, such issues challenge users to keep pace with an ever-evolving software environment.
Summary: Intel users running Windows 11 24H2 on certain recent processor models might notice that their system performance dips significantly when applications are minimized—a phenomenon that underscores the intricate dance between firmware updates and operating system behavior.

AMD’s Chipset Driver: A Beacon of Stability​

A Fresh Boost for AMD Users​

While Intel users wrestle with unexpected performance throttling, AMD has been busy refining its own support for Windows 11 (and Windows 10) systems. AMD’s release of their new chipset driver package—version 7.02.13.148—brings several improvements designed to enhance both application compatibility and overall system stability.
  • Key Enhancements Include:
  • Microsoft Pluton Support:
    AMD’s new driver now includes support for Microsoft’s Pluton co-processor. This feature is designed to elevate chip-level security, surpassing what TPM (Trusted Platform Module) or Intel’s PTT (Platform Trust Technology) offer. With AMD Copilot+ PCs coming with Pluton enabled, this driver update is a welcome addition for security-minded users.
  • Application Compatibility Improvements:
    A new “AMD Application Compatibility Database Driver” is part of the package, specifically aimed at smoothing out compatibility issues and boosting system stability. This could mean a more reliable experience when running a diverse array of applications—a refreshing change against the backdrop of Windows’ oft-troubled post-update performance.
  • Bug Fixes and Driver Additions:
    Alongside the major new entries, the package also fixes multiple lingering driver issues. However, be mindful of a known issue where installing the latest driver might block older driver versions—a hurdle that can be overcome with a straightforward workaround involving the deletion of a specific folder.

What Does This Mean for You?​

AMD’s proactive stance in updating their chipset drivers is a testament to their commitment to improving user experience. For AMD users, this update could lead to a smoother, more reliable Windows experience. Not only does it plug critical security gaps with Pluton support, but it also potentially curbs compatibility hiccups that might otherwise disrupt workflow or gaming sessions.
Summary: AMD’s new chipset driver version 7.02.13.148 offers enhanced security with Pluton support, improved application compatibility, and a suite of bug fixes that promise a more stable experience under Windows 11 and 10—an encouraging development for those running AMD-powered systems.

Windows 11 Update Blues: A Pattern Emerges​

A History of Post-Update Woes​

Windows 11 users aren’t strangers to post-update performance issues. In past updates—from problematic sound drivers to notorious game crashes with titles like Star Wars Outlaws and Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla—Windows 11’s quirks have often left users frustrated. The latest reports of performance throttling add to this lineup of recurring problems.

The Root of the Issue​

What exactly is happening when performance drops occur? When an application is minimized, the operating system appears to automatically switch to an energy-saving state. For many users, this “sleep mode” for applications manifests as sudden drops in CPU performance—an ironic twist when the expectation is for the operating system to deliver consistent high-performance output regardless of window state.
  • Recurring Trigger:
    The phenomenon was observed not just in isolated instances but as a pattern. Comparative tests against the earlier Windows 11 23H2 version indicate that performance degradation is unique to the current update, thereby raising concerns about how Microsoft manages post-update behaviors on varied hardware configurations.
  • Rhetorical Question:
    If your PC decides to take a power nap the moment you minimize an app, is it really optimizing energy usage, or is it inadvertently stalling productivity?

Balancing Act: Performance vs. Power Savings​

While energy efficiency is a laudable goal, the unintended cost here is throttling that hinders performance when you need it most. For power users who rely on rapid app switching during intensive tasks, this can be a deal-breaker. As such, it’s essential for both Microsoft and hardware manufacturers to work closely to iron out these quirks—ensuring that performance is never sacrificed at the altar of energy savings.
Summary: The latest Windows 11 update seems to oscillate between trying to conserve energy and inadvertently throttling performance—especially on certain Intel processors. This recurring issue underscores the need for a more fine-tuned balance between power saving and performance delivery.

What Affected Users Should Do​

For Intel Users:​

  • Monitor Your System:
    Open Task Manager and keep an eye on CPU usage. Look for spiking performance metrics when applications are minimized.
  • Benchmark Your Performance:
    Consider running simple benchmarks (such as the 7zip test) to gauge whether your system sees a noticeable performance drop.
  • Stay Updated:
    Keep abreast of Intel microcode updates or any workarounds recommended by reputable sources. If you’re using an affected Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or similar CPU, extra vigilance is advised.

For AMD Users:​

  • Update Your Drivers:
    Ensure that your system is running the latest AMD chipset driver (version 7.02.13.148) to take full advantage of improved compatibility and security enhancements.
  • Review the Workaround:
    If you encounter issues with driver downgrades, refer to the known workaround of removing the “Qt_Dependencies” folder from your system directory.

For All Windows Users:​

  • Backup Before Updating:
    Given the history of post-update issues, a full system backup is always a smart idea before installing new patches.
  • Provide Feedback:
    Use Microsoft’s feedback hub to report performance issues. Wider user reports can help prioritize fixes in future updates.
Summary: Whether you’re running on Intel or AMD hardware, proactive system monitoring, regular backups, and staying informed on driver updates can help mitigate the frustration that often follows a major Windows 11 update.

Conclusion​

Windows 11 24H2 is a mixed bag for users. On one side, Intel-powered systems are grappling with unexpected performance throttling—especially when apps are minimized—raising concerns among gamers and power users alike. On the flip side, AMD has rolled out a promising chipset driver update aimed at enhancing compatibility, stability, and security. These divergent experiences underscore the complexity of modern operating systems, where a single update can simultaneously highlight hardware-specific issues and innovative solutions.
As a veteran IT journalist and anchorman who has seen Windows updates come and go, the takeaway remains clear: vigilance is key. Stay informed, keep your drivers up to date, and monitor system performance regularly. Whether you’re team Intel or team AMD, understanding these updates helps you navigate the quirks of Windows 11 with confidence—and maybe even a touch of humor, knowing that in the world of tech, perfection is often just one update away.
Summary: The Windows 11 24H2 update has spotlighted performance challenges on select Intel devices while inspiring AMD to deliver a much-needed driver update. As updates remain an inevitable part of the Windows experience, informed users can take steps to mitigate issues and enjoy their systems to the fullest.
Happy updating, and may your system always perform at its peak—even if it occasionally likes to take a little nap!

Source 1: A Windows 11 update has tanked performance on some Intel CPUs — Here's what it means for you
Source 2: AMD's new chipset driver improves Windows 11/10 app compatibility, Microsoft Pluton support
Source 3: Notes that Windows 11 is slowly slowly? You are not alone
 

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