You’re in the right place if you need to check a CPU to ensure it works properly. Whatever your reason for evaluating the working condition of a computer processor, we will provide you with the necessary steps to know if you have a functional component or a paperweight.

1. Basic Performance Check

System Responsiveness

The simplest way to check if your CPU is functioning properly is to observe your system’s performance. If your computer is responding slowly to commands, freezing, or crashing frequently, your CPU might be struggling. However, poor performance can also be caused by other factors like insufficient RAM or a failing hard drive, so this is just a preliminary check.

Task Manager

Using the Task Manager on Windows, you can monitor CPU usage in real-time. Here’s how:

  1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc or right-click the taskbar and select “Task Manager.”
  2. View CPU Usage: Click on the “Performance” tab to see a real-time graph of CPU usage. Ideally, CPU usage should be low when idle and increase appropriately when running applications.

Signs of CPU Issues:

  • Constantly high CPU usage, even when idle.
  • CPU usage spikes for no apparent reason.

2. Check for Overheating

Why Temperature Matters

Overheating is one of the most common issues that can affect CPU performance. If your CPU is running too hot, it may throttle its performance to prevent damage, leading to sluggish system behavior.

Monitoring CPU Temperature

You can use software tools like HWMonitor, Core Temp, or HWInfo to monitor your CPU’s temperature. Here’s how:

  1. Download and Install Monitoring Software: Choose a tool like HWMonitor and install it.
  2. Check Temperature Readings: Open the software and observe the CPU temperature readings.

Normal CPU Temperature Ranges:

  • Idle: 86°F to 113°F (30°C to 45°C)
  • Under Load: 140°F to 176°F (60°C to 80°C)
  • Critical: Above 194°F (90°C)

If your CPU is regularly running at high temperatures under load, you may need to improve your cooling solution or clean out dust from your system.

3. Run Diagnostic Tests

Windows Built-in Diagnostics

Windows has built-in tools that can help you diagnose CPU issues:

  1. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic: While primarily for RAM, this tool can also indicate if your CPU is failing to handle memory tasks correctly.
    • Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and hit Enter.
    • Choose to restart and check for problems.
  2. Use System File Checker (SFC): This command checks for system file corruption, which can sometimes be caused by a faulty CPU.
    • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

Third-Party Tools

For a more thorough CPU test, use third-party diagnostic tools:

  • Intel Processor Diagnostic Tool: Specifically designed for Intel CPUs, this tool will run a comprehensive set of tests to determine if the CPU is functioning correctly.
  • Prime95: Often used for stress testing, Prime95 can push your CPU to its limits and help identify potential stability issues.

How to Use Prime95:

  1. Download and install Prime95.
  2. Run a “Torture Test” with the option “Blend” to test both CPU and RAM.
  3. Monitor for errors or crashes, which indicate CPU instability.

4. Check BIOS/UEFI Settings

Ensure Proper Configuration

Sometimes, issues with your CPU can stem from incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings. Here’s how to check:

  1. Enter BIOS/UEFI: Restart your computer and press the designated key (usually Delete, F2, or Esc) to enter BIOS/UEFI.
  2. Check CPU Settings: Look for settings related to CPU frequency, voltage, and cooling. Ensure these are set to their default values unless you’re overclocking.

Update BIOS/UEFI

Outdated BIOS/UEFI firmware can lead to CPU compatibility issues or instability. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website to download the latest BIOS/UEFI update and follow their instructions to apply it.

5. Physical Inspection

Check for Visible Damage

If you suspect your CPU is faulty, a physical inspection might be necessary. Ensure your computer is turned off and unplugged before proceeding.

  1. Remove the CPU Cooler: Carefully remove the cooling solution (fan or water block) from your CPU.
  2. Inspect the CPU and Socket: Look for bent pins (on older CPUs with pins) or visible damage to the CPU or motherboard socket.
  3. Reapply Thermal Paste: If everything looks fine, clean the old thermal paste off the CPU and cooler and apply a new, thin layer of thermal paste before reassembling.

6. Use Error Logs and Event Viewer

Check Event Viewer for Errors

Windows logs many hardware-related issues in the Event Viewer, which can provide clues about CPU problems.

  1. Open Event Viewer: Press Windows + X and select “Event Viewer.”
  2. Look for Errors: Navigate to “Windows Logs” > “System” and look for any critical errors related to the CPU.

Common CPU-Related Errors:

  • “WHEA-Logger” errors indicate hardware failures, often related to the CPU.
  • Unexpected system reboots or shutdowns without explanation.

Conclusion

Checking if your CPU is working properly involves a combination of performance observation, temperature monitoring, diagnostic testing, BIOS/UEFI configuration checks, and sometimes even physical inspection. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can identify and resolve most CPU-related issues, ensuring your computer runs smoothly. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to avoid further damage to your system.

Avatar for Marlo Strydom

Marlo, the founder of Computer Info Bits, has over 20 years of IT expertise. He's passionate about technology and aims to demystify it. Since 2019, he's been writing articles covering essential computer tips to complex hardware discussions, helping readers better understand and use their technology. Marlo stays up-to-date with the latest tech developments through extensive research and interaction.