Programatically configure Windows Processor Scheduling for Applications or Background Services

Sometimes you might want to programmatically switch processor priority for applications vs services. You can do it via the Control Panel applet (System->Advanced->Performance Tab->Settings->Advanced Tab->Processor Scheduling). Or, do it in the registry by modifying this key:


HKLMSystemCurrentControlSetControlPriorityControlWin32PrioritySeparation

It’s a DWORD key. Set it to 38 for applications, or 24 for services. On a new system it may be set to 2, which will act the same way as 38.

0

Written by Ben Strackany -- December 23, 2004

Ben worked for a variety of tech startups in Chicago before moving to Portland and starting DevelopmentNow in 2005. When he's not herding cats, stirring pots, and taking names, he enjoys drinking coffee while irritating the studio audience with bad puns.