How to Disable Intel SpeedStep Technology [Guide]

Intel SpeedStep Technology is a feature that allows your processor to dynamically adjust its frequency and voltage according to the workload and power conditions. This can help save battery life and reduce heat generation in laptops, but it can also limit the performance of your processor.

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If you want to disable Intel SpeedStep Technology and run your processor at its maximum speed all the time, you will need to access your BIOS settings and change some options. Here are the steps you need to follow:

  1. Restart your computer and press the appropriate key (usually F2, F10, F12, or Del) to enter the BIOS setup menu. You may need to consult your motherboard or laptop manual for the exact key.
  2. Navigate to the Advanced tab or section of the BIOS menu using the arrow keys. Look for an option called CPU Configuration, Processor Configuration, or something similar.
  3. Find an option called Intel SpeedStep Technology, Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology, EIST, or something similar. Use the +/- keys or Enter key to change its value from Enabled to Disabled.
  4. Press F10 or look for an option called Save & Exit to save your changes and exit the BIOS menu. Your computer will reboot with Intel SpeedStep Technology disabled.

Alternatively, you can also disable Intel SpeedStep Technology from within Windows by changing your power plan settings:

  1. Click on Start and type power plan in the search box. Click on Choose a power plan from the results.
  2. Select High performance from the list of power plans or create a new one by clicking on Create a power plan on the left side panel.
  3. Click on Change plan settings next to your selected power plan and then click on Change advanced power settings.
  4. Expand Processor power management and then expand Minimum processor state. Set both On battery and Plugged in values to 100% using the slider or typing in the box.
  5. Expand Maximum processor state and set both On battery and Plugged in values to 100% as well.
  6. Click on OK to save your changes.

By following these steps, you have disabled Intel SpeedStep Technology and forced your processor to run at its maximum frequency regardless of the workload or power conditions.

However, before you do this, you should be aware of some drawbacks:

  • Disabling Intel SpeedStep Technology will increase your power consumption and reduce your battery life significantly.
  • Disabling Intel SpeedStep Technology will also increase your heat generation and fan noise levels. This can cause thermal throttling if your cooling system is not adequate enough.
  • Disabling Intel SpeedStep Technology may not improve your performance significantly if other factors such as memory bandwidth, graphics card, disk speed, etc., are limiting it.
  • Disabling Intel SpeedStep Technology may void your warranty or cause instability issues if you overclock your processor beyond its specifications.

Therefore, unless you have a specific reason or application that requires disabling Intel SpeedStep Technology, it is generally recommended that you leave it enabled for optimal performance and efficiency.

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Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.