For folks using Windows 11 and 10 who are into Virtual Reality (VR), you might notice something called OVRServer_x64.exe popping up. This little program can be a bit of a resource hog, using up a lot of your computer’s brain (CPU), graphics power (GPU), memory, and even your internet bandwidth. Let’s have a closer look at what this process is all about, why it uses so much juice, and what you can do about it.
Also see: How to Scan an .exe File for Viruses to Check If It’s Safe
Page Contents
What is OVRServer_x64.exe?
OVRServer_x64.exe is a key part of the Oculus VR setup, made by a company under Meta (you might know them as Facebook). Oculus is big in the VR game, working to bring VR to more people.
This process helps your Oculus Rift or Quest talk to your Windows computer, making sure they understand each other perfectly.
Useful tip: How to Take a Screenshot on Oculus Quest 2 or Rift S
What are OVRRedir.exe and OVRServiceLauncher.exe?
Alongside OVRServer_x64.exe, you’ll often see OVRRedir.exe and OVRServiceLauncher.exe. OVRRedir.exe makes sure the VR device tracks your moves right, while OVRServiceLauncher.exe turns the Oculus VR service on and off as needed.
These three work together to make sure your VR experience is as good as it can be.
Why is OVRServer_x64.exe causing high CPU, GPU, and memory usage?
VR application demands
VR apps need a lot of power to create those cool 3D worlds, which means your computer’s CPU and GPU can get pretty busy. OVRServer_x64.exe helps manage these demanding apps.
Handy guide: How to Limit CPU Usage of a Process in Windows 11
Background processes
OVRServer_x64.exe isn’t just busy when you’re in VR. It’s always on, making sure your Oculus device is ready to go, which can keep your resources in use even when you’re not in another world.
Recommended read: GPU 100% Usage When Idle or Gaming (Good or Bad)
Driver and software updates
Oculus keeps improving their stuff with new updates, which might temporarily use more CPU and memory when they’re being installed.
Hardware compatibility
If your PC isn’t quite up to VR, it might struggle with the demands of OVRServer_x64.exe and VR apps, leading to more usage of CPU, GPU, and memory.
Linked issue: Oculus Rift S or Quest 2 No Headset Audio on Windows 11/10 PC
Why does OVRServer_x64.exe sometimes also cause high network usage?
Apart from munching on your CPU, GPU, and memory, OVRServer_x64.exe can also be a bit greedy with your internet connection. Here’s why:
Software updates
When there’s a new update, OVRServer_x64.exe needs to download it, which can bump up your network usage for a bit.
VR content streaming
Some VR games and apps stream content from the internet, and OVRServer_x64.exe helps with that, which can also use up your internet bandwidth.
Related resource: How to Know Which Process is Using The Internet in Windows 11
Why is OVRServer_x64.exe always running in the background?
OVRServer_x64.exe stays on in the background so your VR setup is always ready to go. It keeps an eye on your Oculus gear and makes sure everything works smoothly when you want to jump into VR.
Related concern: Why is My Memory Usage So High When Nothing is Running?
How to set OVRServer_x64.exe priority?
If OVRServer_x64.exe is making your computer slow, you can tell your computer to not think it’s as important as other stuff. Here’s how to do that:
- Right-click on the taskbar and click “Task Manager” or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
- In the Task Manager window, go to the “Details” tab.
- In the “Details” tab, right-click on “OVRServer_x64.exe” and hover over “Set priority.“
- Choose the priority level you think is best. Just be careful because making it too important could mess with other important stuff your computer is doing.
How to disable OVRServer_x64.exe?
If you’re not using your Oculus much and OVRServer_x64.exe is still eating up your resources, you might want to turn it off. Here’s how you can do that:
Using the Services application
This way, you can stop it from starting up with your computer:
- Press Win + R to open the “Run” dialogue box.
- Type “services.msc” and press Enter to open the Services application.
- Look for “Oculus VR Runtime Service”.
- Right-click on it and select “Properties”.
- In the “Startup type” dropdown, select “Disabled”.
- If it’s running, click “Stop” to stop it right away.
- Click “Apply” and “OK”.
Just remember, if you want to use your Oculus again, you’ll need to turn this back on.
Using Task Manager
If you just want to stop it for now and not worry about it starting up when you restart:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc or Ctrl + Alt + Del and choose “Task Manager.”
- Under the “Processes” tab, find OVRServer_x64.exe.
- Right-click on it and choose “End Task.”
Note: This is a temporary fix. It’ll likely start back up when you reboot or start Oculus software.
Through the Oculus application
For those with the Oculus app installed:
- Open the Oculus app on your PC.
- Click on “Settings” in the left pane.
- Go to the “General” section.
- Toggle off “Automatically Start Oculus Service on Login.”
OVRServer_x64.exe has stopped working issue
Sometimes, OVRServer_x64.exe might stop working. Here’s what you can do:
- Update Oculus Software: Make sure your Oculus software is up to date. Check in the app’s “Settings” under “General.”
- Graphics Driver Update: Out-of-date graphics drivers might be the problem. Check your GPU manufacturer’s site for the latest drivers.
- Reinstallation: If nothing else works, try reinstalling the Oculus software.
- Contact Support: Still stuck? Reach out to Oculus support for help.
Insight from Reddit users about OVRServer_x64.exe
There was a chat on Reddit about OVRServer_x64.exe. One person mentioned it connects to the internet for updates, store stuff, and friend lists. Another found it stays connected to Facebook servers for game installs but didn’t seem to share personal info for ads. Some think it helps Oculus track the device’s location.
Last but not least
In the end, OVRServer_x64.exe is a key part of making Oculus VR work smoothly on Windows PCs. It’s normal for it to use a lot of resources for a top-notch VR experience. If it’s too much, you can adjust its priority or turn it off when you’re not using VR. Just be careful with how you manage it to avoid messing up other computer tasks.
