How to Change Maximum Processor Frequency in Windows Tweaking your CPU's maximum frequency is a simple but powerful way to boost speed, reduce power usage, and keep your device running cool. Let's demystify maximum processor frequency and show you how to adjust it on Windows. Before we begin, be sure to subscribe to NinjaOne's IT Video Hub and our YouTube channel for more tech content like this. Benefits of changing maximum processor frequency in Windows Adjusting CPU frequency in Windows helps boost performance, save power, and prevent overheating. The key is finding a balance. Pushing speeds for demanding tasks without causing instability, while limiting frequency to reduce power use and heat in less demanding situations. How to limit CPU speed in Windows for battery life and device performance Now let's go over how to limit CPU speed. The first method is through the Control Panel app, which is the simplest way: Go to Control Panel, then System and Security, then Power Options. Click Change plan settings on your active power plan. Then, select Change advanced power settings. Find and expand Processor power management, then click Maximum processor state. Under Maximum processor state, set the values in megahertz (MHz) for Plugged in and On battery, if you're using a laptop. Click Apply and then OK to save your changes. Next, let’s try using the Command Prompt. Open Command Prompt as an administrator, then enter one of the following codes. For battery... For Plugged in... This next method comes with a disclaimer. Only advanced users should use the Windows Registry, as mistakes can cause system issues. Always backup your data before making any changes. To try this method: Press Win + R, then enter regedit. Navigate to the following path... Locate the subkeys that correspond to Processor power management. Inside Processor power management, find another subkey with a GUID that corresponds to the Maximum processor state. Change the Value Data within the Maximum processor state subkey. This data is usually represented as a percentage. Be careful with this step, as the format and meaning of the Value Data can differ, depending on the system and processor. Exit the Registry Editor and restart your device. Missing Processor Power Management Options If you don’t see Processor Power Management settings in Power Options, don't worry. On certain Windows builds, the processor frequency controls do not appear in Power Options by default. To reveal them, run the following command in Command Prompt: This should make the maximum processor frequency settings appear in Power Options. If they still don't show up, check Windows Update to ensure your system has the latest power-management features. Follow this guide to change the maximum processor frequency, keeping a balance between performance, efficiency, and system health. For more information, check out our official blog post on How to Change Maximum Processor Frequency in Windows linked in the description below.