LSAISO.exe: Understanding and Resolving High Memory, CPU, Disk, and Power Usage
The LSAISO.exe process, associated with Credential Guard and Key Guard, is known to occasionally experience high Memory, CPU, Disk, or Power usage on Windows 11/10 computers. This article delves into the possible cause of this issue and presents recommended solutions to address it effectively.
Possible Cause of High LSAISO Process Usage
In Windows 11/10, the LSAISO process runs as an Isolated User Mode (IUM) process within a secure environment called Virtual Secure Mode (VSM). Applications or drivers attempting to load a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) into an IUM process, inject a thread, or deliver a user-mode APC can destabilize the entire system, leading to high LSAISO CPU usage.
Recommended Solutions
Microsoft suggests two primary methods to resolve the high LSAISO process usage issue:
1. Use the Process of Elimination
- Identify applications (such as antivirus programs) that inject DLLs or queue APCs to the LSAISO process, causing high CPU usage.
- Disable these applications and drivers systematically until the CPU spike is mitigated.
- Contact the respective vendors for software updates to address the issue.
2. Check for Queued APCs
- Download the Windows Debugging (WinDbg) tool or locate it within the Windows Driver Kit (WDK).
- Generate a kernel memory dump using NotMyFault.exe from the Sysinternals suite.
- Open the kernel dump file in WinDbg and add the Microsoft Symbol Server address path to the Symbol path.
- Use the “!apc” command to search for LsaIso.exe in the results.
- If a driver named “
.sys” appears under LsaIso.exe, contact the vendor and refer them to the Microsoft document for recommended mitigation strategies.
Conclusion
High LSAISO process usage can be attributed to applications or drivers destabilizing the system by injecting DLLs, injecting threads, or delivering user-mode APCs. By employing the process of elimination or checking for queued APCs, users can identify the root cause and implement appropriate solutions to mitigate the issue effectively.
FAQ
What is LSAISO.exe and why does it sometimes consume high resources?
LSAISO.exe is a process associated with Credential Guard and Key Guard in Windows 11/10. It can occasionally experience high Memory, CPU, Disk, or Power usage due to applications or drivers destabilizing the system by injecting DLLs, injecting threads, or delivering user-mode APCs.
How can I identify the applications or drivers causing high LSAISO process usage?
To identify the problematic applications or drivers, you can use the process of elimination method. Disable applications and drivers systematically until the CPU spike is mitigated. Alternatively, you can check for queued APCs using the Windows Debugging (WinDbg) tool and identify the driver named “
What steps can I take to resolve high LSAISO process usage caused by applications or drivers?
If high LSAISO process usage is caused by applications, disable the problematic applications or contact their vendors for software updates. If caused by drivers, contact the respective driver vendors and refer them to the Microsoft document for recommended mitigation strategies.
Is it safe to disable the LSAISO.exe process to resolve high resource usage?
No, it is not recommended to disable the LSAISO.exe process as it is an essential component of Credential Guard and Key Guard, which are important security features in Windows. Disabling it may compromise the security of your system.
Are there any additional measures I can take to prevent high LSAISO process usage?
To prevent high LSAISO process usage, keep your applications and drivers up to date, avoid installing unnecessary software, and use reputable antivirus and antimalware programs to protect your system from potential threats that could destabilize the LSAISO process.
What other potential causes of high LSAISO process usage should I be aware of?
While applications and drivers are common culprits, other factors like malware infections, faulty hardware components, or underlying system issues can also contribute to high LSAISO process usage. It is important to perform a comprehensive diagnosis to identify the root cause and address it accordingly.
Where can I find more information and support regarding LSAISO.exe and its resource usage issues?
You can refer to Microsoft’s official documentation, community forums, or reputable tech support websites for additional information, troubleshooting tips, and potential solutions related to LSAISO.exe and its resource usage issues.