How to fix
Network List Service (netprofm.dll) high CPU
on Windows

Recently, whenever Windows wakes up from sleep, Network List Service is taking 30-40% of the CPU usage, and it goes on for some time. Then I have to reboot for the problem to go away, only for it to come back a bit later.

In the Windows operating system, efficient management of resources like CPU and memory is crucial for optimal performance. These resources are allocated to various services and processes, with the allocation varying depending on the task at hand.

High resource usage is not uncommon, especially for processes involved in intensive tasks. However, when a service that typically consumes minimal resources starts using a significant amount of CPU continuously, it suggests a potential problem. The Network List Service (netprofm.dll) exhibiting high CPU usage is an example of such an irregularity.

Network List Service is an integral part of the Windows operating system. Its primary function is to manage network configurations and properties. This service identifies networks, stores their properties, and notifies applications of any changes to these properties. Its operation is key to the network recognition and management processes within Windows, facilitating the identification and differentiation of network environments.

The occurrence of  Network List Service high CPU usage can be attributed to various factors. These may include discrepancies in network configuration, conflicts with other network services, or software malfunctions. In such scenarios, a review of network settings and an assessment for potential software updates that might rectify the issue is advisable. It is also useful to monitor whether the spike in CPU usage correlates with specific network activities or system changes.

Addressing issues like high CPU usage by the Network List Service requires a careful approach. Manual intervention can be effective but necessitates a deep understanding of the Windows operating system's intricacies. Alternatively, using a specialized PC repair tool [d1] offers a more user-friendly solution.

These tools are designed to automatically diagnose and resolve a wide range of Windows-related issues, including those pertaining to resource allocation. Utilizing such a tool can simplify the troubleshooting process and ensure the smooth functioning of the system.

Fix 1. Run network troubleshooter

The network troubleshooter in Windows is designed to automatically detect and fix common network-related issues. It works by scanning the system for potential problems with network connectivity and attempts to resolve them without user intervention.

• Right-click on Start and pick Settings.
• Go to Network & Internet section.
• On the right side, find the Advanced network settings section.
• Click Network troubleshooter, specify the problem, and wait till the scan is finished.
• When done, apply all the recommendations.

Fix 2. Update network adapter driver

Network issues can often stem from outdated or corrupt network adapter drivers. Updating these drivers can resolve compatibility issues and optimize network performance. If you would rather not bother with manual driver updates, you can always rely on powerful software [rev id="DriverFix"].

• Right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager.
• Expand the Network adapters section.
• Right-click on your network adapter and choose Update driver.
• Select Search automatically driver.
• Follow the prompts to complete the driver update and restart your PC.

Fix 3. Reinstall network adapter

Issues with network adapters, often resolved by reinstallation, can be due to corrupted or improperly configured drivers. Particularly effective when multiple network adapters are present, excluding WAN Miniport, users have found success in uninstalling and then reinstalling one of the adapters.

• Open Device Manager from the Start menu.
• Expand the Network adapters section.
• Right-click on one of the network adapters (not WAN Miniport) and select Uninstall device.
• Confirm the uninstallation.
• Restart your computer.
• Windows will automatically reinstall the network adapter upon reboot. If it doesn't, download the driver manually or use automatic tools.

Fix 4. Install all Windows updates

Keeping Windows up-to-date is crucial for system stability and performance. Updates often include fixes for known bugs and improvements that can resolve existing issues, including those related to high CPU usage.

• Type Updates in the Windows search bar and hit Enter.
• If updates are pending, click Download and install. Otherwise, click Check for updates.
• Make sure you choose to install optional updates as well.
• Restart your system to implement the changes.

Fix 5. Try Clean Boot

Performing a Clean Boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help identify if background programs are causing issues.

• Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
• Go to the Services tab and tick the Hide all Microsoft services checkbox.
• Select Disable all.
• Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
• Here, right-click on each of the non-Windows entries and select Disable.
• Close down the Task Manager.
• Go to the Boot tab and tick the Safe boot option.
• Click OK.
• Restart your computer to initiate the Clean Boot.

After restarting, your PC will be in a Clean Boot environment. In this state, you can monitor the system’s performance and CPU usage. If the high CPU usage issue does not occur in this mode, it indicates that one or more background programs are the culprits.

To identify the problematic program, you can gradually enable services and startup items (reverting the changes made during the Clean Boot) and restart the PC each time until you identify which application or service is causing the issue. Once identified, you can keep it disabled or uninstall it to resolve the high CPU usage problem. 

Fix 6. Run SFC and DISM

In case corrupted system files contribute to Network List Service high CPU, you can resolve it by running commands in elevated Command Prompt:

• Type in cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• In the User Account Control window, click Yes.
• In the Command Prompt window, paste the following command and hit Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Next, use the following commands, pressing Enter each time:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  (Note: if you get an error executing this last command, add /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess to it and try again).
• Reboot your system.