The Computer is Running Slow After Downloading the Latest iTunes

by Dan Stone
The iTunes program grows with updates and uses more resources.

The iTunes program grows with updates and uses more resources.

Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Apple's iTunes software requires a lot of a computer's resources. A computer has a finite amount of system memory and CPU cycles to handle all ongoing processes. If you install the latest version of Apple's iTunes (or update the software to run the latest version) and the computer has sufficient resources, iTunes shouldn't cause a performance drop. If the computer lacks enough resources, however, it might start to run slowly in situations where it used to run quickly.

Higher System Requirements

According to Apple, iTunes requires a 1-gigahertz processor and 512 megabytes of memory. While a computer that meets the system requirements may not have any issues running iTunes, simply meeting the minimum requirements will not be enough when you start running other programs at the same time on the computer. For example, running memory- and processor-intensive programs such as Web-based programs, games and editing software while running iTunes may cause system slowdowns.

Apple Mobile Devices Issues

The AppleMobileDeviceService.exe program that's installed with iTunes is known to be a CPU hog. The program is used to recognize connected Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads and iPods; it runs in the background but is worthless when not connecting devices. To disable the service, press "Windows Key+R," type "msconfig," press "Enter," select the "Services" tab, uncheck the box next to "AppleMobileDeviceService.exe," click "Apply" and reboot the computer.

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  • Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images News/Getty Images
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