Task Manager Shows Fewer Cores [Solved]

When you’re using a processor that you bought, you generally expect it to do what it says on the tin, especially how many cores it has. But if your Task Manager shows fewer cores than normal, you might have some serious issues with your hardware. Here’s what you’ll need to do.

How to Check if Task Manager Shows Less Cores Is Actually Right

In some cases, it’s best to double-check with more tools to see if the issue isn’t with Task Manager. There are a few excellent options, but perhaps the simplest one is CoreTemp. It strips away fancy graphics to show the figures you need.

Step 1. Go to CoreTemp’s website and click on “Download.”

Step 2. Run the application you downloaded. In the installation process, make sure to uncheck everything except “Create a desktop shortcut,” as you’d be installing bloatware.

Step 3. Finish the installation and open the app.

CoreTemp should display the operating parameters of each core. The number of cores is listed on the top-right of the panel, next to the number of digital cores (threads).

Fix 1 – Solve Task Manager Shows Fewer Cores by Enabling All Cores

In some rare cases, your PC might’ve put a lock on how many cores it will use regardless of the status of the CPU. This can be undone through advanced boot settings.

Step 1. Open the Run utility with “Windows + R” and insert “msconfig” then hit “Enter.”

Step 2. Click on the “Boot” tab, then select “Advanced options.”

Step 3. Uncheck the option “Number of processors” and hit “OK.”

Step 4. Restart the PC.

Fix 2 – Reset the BIOS CMOS

In some cases, the BIOS itself doesn’t register the cores, which can be solved with a reset. There are a few options, starting with the pure software one.

Step 1. Restart the PC. When it turns on again, press the button that shows on the screen for advanced boot settings. It should usually be “Delete,” “Escape,” or one of the F keys (F11 or F12).

Step 2. The BIOS menu varies by motherboard model, but you should have an option listed “Reset all settings to default” or something similar. Choose that option and confirm.

Alternatively, you can reset the CMOS battery the hard way:

• Some motherboards have a dedicated reset button on the plate. Pressing (and holding) it should clear the BIOS and reload standard settings.
• Alternatively, you can use pliers to remove the small CMOS battery, leave it out for a few seconds, then put it back in place.

Fix 3 – Get a New CPU or Reinstall Windows

If neither of the two options work, reinstall Windows and see if a fresh install has all the cores listed.

But if a clean installation also can’t see the cores, you might have one of two problems. First, your old CPU has started to die and needs to be replaced. Secondly, the CPU you bought might have a manufacturing defect or simply be a dupe.

The second option might be able to be contested with the seller or manufacturer, so refer to their customer support. If you do have an old CPU, your only real option might be to replace it.