Leave the real ctfmon.exe in C:\Windows\System32 alone. It's needed for typing in modern apps. If it uses high CPU or shows errors, remove unused keyboard languages, run DISM and SFC, and install Windows updates. Scan any ctfmon.exe located elsewhere.

Why this happens

CTF stands for Collaborative Translation Framework, Microsoft’s service for alternative input. In Windows 10 and 11 it is closely tied to typing in Start, Search, Settings and Store apps, so disabling it can stop you typing in those places.

High CPU from CTF Loader is typically caused by input-method problems: several keyboard languages, third-party IMEs, the touch keyboard service misbehaving on non-touch PCs, or corrupted system files.

Symptoms

  • “CTF Loader” appears in Task Manager, sometimes using CPU.
  • Error messages mentioning ctfmon.exe or CTF Loader.
  • Typing doesn't work in Start search or Settings.

Common causes

  • Extra or broken keyboard layouts and input methods.
  • Touch keyboard and handwriting service glitches.
  • Corrupted system files.
  • Malware disguised as ctfmon.exe (rare; check the file location).

Try these fixes

  1. Check the file locationIn Task Manager right-click CTF Loader → Open file location. It should be C:\Windows\System32\ctfmon.exe. If it runs from anywhere else, run a full Microsoft Defender scan.
  2. Remove unused keyboardsSettings → Time & language → Language & region → your language → Language options: remove keyboards you don't use.
  3. Restart the input serviceEnd CTF Loader in Task Manager; Windows restarts it automatically when needed.
  4. Repair system filesRepair system files with DISM, then SFC (commands below).
  5. Install updatesInstall pending updates in Windows Update, which often include input fixes.

Command

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
sfc /scannow

Elevated Command Prompt.

Check it's fixed: CTF Loader sits near 0% CPU in Task Manager and typing works in Start and Settings.

Avoiding it in future

Keep only the keyboard layouts you need and keep Windows updated.