Initial Problem:

The problem is related to 100% CPU usage on one of our users` PC. It increased, but the user told he hasn`t performed any actions which potentially could harmfully influence on the PC`s productivity. There was no possibility to do anything using this PC.

 Troubleshooting process:

During processes analysis I`ve noticed that the very whole amount of CPU usage was occupied by one process named spoolsv.exe. Here is the sample of how could the Processes Tab of Windows Task Manager look if your PC is experiencing this very problem

Upon researching I figured out that the situation like that might take place if any document was by mistake sent to microsoft document image writer virtual printer.

 Solution:

The CPU overload takes place when there are still any printer jobs in the Windows spool. Once the printing queue of microsoft document image writer becomes empty (after manual cancellation of all tasks from there) – the CPU usage returns to its previous normal level as  sharply as it increased and the PC starts working normally.

 

 This is a very simple solution of such a serious problem. Each time you print make sure you`ve chosen the correct printing device.

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