'Steam Client Bootstrapper' High CPU Usage

The Steam client has gone a long way since it was first launched back in 2003. From a simple application with just a couple of features, it is now a robust program that allows access to one of the biggest online video game platforms with tens of millions of concurrent users. Unfortunately, as is the case with any software product, Steam can run into issues from time to time. One particular problem that many users have encountered is the 'Steam Client Bootstrapper' occupying a huge portion of the CPU's resources even when it is in idle mode. 

The Steam Client Bootstrapper is a core part of the Steam client responsible for preparing the other more complex processes to run. It also ensures that the main Steam client is in working order by installing updates and replacing missing files. Normally, the Steam Client Bootstrapper doesn't take up too much of the CPU's output but under certain circumstances, it could malfunction. The exact reasons vary a lot and could be specific to the particular computer. Still, there are a couple of easy suggestions that might help resolve the issue. 

Disable GPU accelerated rendering in Web views

1. Open Steam.
2. Go to the Steam menu and then choose 'Settings.'
3. From the left pane, select 'Interface.'
4. Locate the 'GPU accelerated rendering in web views' option and disable it by unchecking the corresponding box.
5. Click 'OK' to save the changes.
6. Click the 'Restart' button.

Use Library as the default start window

1. Open Steam.
2. Open the Steam menu and then select 'Settings.'
3. Go to 'Interface.'
4. Now, instead of 'Store' as the start window, select 'Library' from the drop-down menu.
5. Click 'OK' to save the changes.
6. Relaunch Steam.

Disable Steam overlay

The Steam overlay allows users to access the Steam client's features even in-game. However, it is oftentimes the cause for the high CPU usage of the Steam Client Bootstrapper so try disabling it and see if the problem has been fixed. 

1. Open Steam.
2. Open the Steam menu and go to 'Settings.'
3. Select the 'In-game' tab.
4. Check the status of 'Steam Overlay.' If it is enabled, disable it by unchecking the corresponding box. If it is not, then first enable it and click 'OK.' After that disable it and click 'OK' again.
5. Exit and then relaunch Steam.