What is Modern Setup Host in Windows 10 and Is it Safe?

Plus, 4 ways to fix any issues

You’ll find several system apps & background processes when you launch the Windows Task Manager on your Windows 10 computer. Some of these processes, you’ll recognize. Others, not so much.

If there’s a certain “Modern Setup Host” consuming your PC’s CPU in the Task Manager and you’re wondering what it does, we’ve highlighted everything you need to know about the system process in this explainer. As a cherry on top, you’ll also learn how to check if the Modern Setup Host is safe and how to reduce its high CPU usage on your computer.

What Is Modern Setup Host

The Modern Setup Host is a core component of the Windows operating system. You’ll find it on any Windows computer, irrespective of the operating system version or build. Windows automatically downloads and installs the Modern Setup Host’s installation file (SetupHost.exe) on your computer.

Naturally, the process stays inactive in hibernation mode, almost like it doesn’t exist. However, when you’re installing a minor or major Windows update on your computer, the Modern Setup Host comes alive.

The primary function of the Modern Setup Host is to prepare your computer to install Windows updates. During the installation process, you’ll find the Modern Setup Host running in the background.

It’s a critical component of your Windows computer. Without the Modern Setup Host, you may be unable to update your PC to the latest operating system. Likewise, you may encounter difficulties updating your computer to Windows 10 from older Windows versions if Modern Setup Host is corrupt or malfunctioning.

You’ll find the Modern Setup Host file in theC:/$Windows.~BT/Sourcesfolder of your computer’s local disk. It is a self-initiating executable setup file; you cannot start it manually unless there’s a Windows update ready to be installed.

Is the Modern Setup Host File Safe?

Microsoft is the developer of the Modern Setup Host file, so it’s safe to have it on your computer. However, a virus or malware can disguise itself as the setuphost.exe file on your PC.

Downloading the setup file from unofficial sources or third-party websites put you at the risk of installing a virus-ridden Modern Setup Host on your computer. That could result in performance problems like high CPU usage, battery drainage issues, etc. But how do you determine if the setuphost.exe file on your computer is genuine (from Microsoft) or a virus mirroring the Modern Setup Host file?

Check the Setup File Properties

  1. Go to the folder (Local Disk (C:) > $WINDOWS.~BT > Sources) containing the setuphost.exe file.

Alternatively, type setuphost.exe in the Windows Search box, right-click on setuphost.exe on the result page and clickOpen file location.

  1. Right-click thesetuphost.exefile and selectPropertiesfrom the context menu.

  2. Go to theDetailstab and check the setuphostCopyrightbelongs toⓒMicrosoft Corporation.

  3. Also, go to theDigital Signaturestab and check if Microsoft Windows is in theName of signercolumn.

These are indications that the setuphost.exe file on your PC is genuine and safe. However, if the Modern Setup Host continues to excessively use CPU resources, you shouldscan your PC for viruses and malwareusing an antivirus app. Refer to our comprehensive guide onremoving stubborn malware on Windows 10to learn more.

Why Modern Setup Host Has High CPU Usage

We’ve already established that Modern Setup Host helps to get your PC ready for the installation of Windows updates. All things being equal, it should only take the setuphost.exe file about 15—30 minutes to complete this task. If the process runs into hours and begins to raise your PC’s CPU load, it could be because:

4 Ways to Fix Modern Setup Host Issues

The Windows 10 operating system has a built-in tool that diagnoses and automatically fixes problems preventing your computer from installing updates. This tool could also help resolve issues causing the Modern Setup Host to malfunction.

The SoftwareDistribution folder stores important files needed to install new updates on your computer. If this folder contains corrupt or conflicting temporary files, you might encounterdifficulties installing Windows updates. Plus, that could also cause the Modern Setup Host process to linger in the background, driving up CPU usage.

To fix this, delete the content of the SoftwareDistribution folder and restart your computer. You don’t have to worry about breaking anything on your device. Windows will redownload the necessary files.

Follow the steps below to delete the content of the SoftwareDistribution folder.

When unnecessary apps run in the background, they takeover CPU resources from vital system activities. Disable as many unnecessary background apps as you can. That should reduce your computer’s CPU load and hasten up the Windows Update process.

Unexpected interruptions (internet or power failures, for example) during the download and installation of Windows Updates can result in a buildup of corrupt files. Consequently, this could cause the Modern Setup Host process to get stuck in the background and use high CPU resources.

To fix this problem, use theDeployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)andSystem File Checker (SFC)tools to repair corrupt files preventing the Windows update.

Note:Each command can take several minutes (say 10 – 20 minutes) to complete. Do not close the Command Prompt window or interrupt the process.

Restart your computer when these commands have been executed successfully and check if that resolves the Modern Setup Host high CPU usage issue.

Stay Updated, Stay Safe

You need the Modern Setup Host to keep your computer updated. However, when asystem process causes high CPU usage, you should check that it isn’t a malware or virus. Make sure the setup file is genuine and digitally signed by the official manufacturer. Scanning the file using an antivirus software (if you have one) could also help determine whether it’s safe or not.

If none of the recommended solutions resolves the Modern Setup Host high disk usage, you may have tofactory reset your Windows PC.

Sodiq has written thousands of tutorials, guides, and explainers over the past 4 years to help people solve problems with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows devices. He also enjoys reviewing consumer tech products (smartphones, smart home devices, accessories, etc.) and binge-watching comedy series in his spare time.Read Sodiq’s Full Bio

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