Numerous "DashboardClient" processes hogging CPU resources -- how to resolve

Some users have reported an issue where multiple DashboardClient processes spawn, chewing up irregularly large amounts of processor resources.

DashboardClient processes are created by Widgets, which operate under Dashboard. As such, there is generally no problem with having multiple DashboardClient, or (name of widget)DashboardClient processes extant. The trouble occurs when an errant Widget begins spawning several of these processes, or when one or more of the processes needlessly uses a large amount of processor time.

In some cases, this issue can be resolved by temporarily removing any third-party Widgets that might be culpable. Look in the following directories:

• ~/Library/Widgets
• /Library/Widgets

move third-party items out, then restart.

Alternatively, you can use the freeware utility Widget Manager to inspect, remove, and disable Dashboard Widgets.

Sometimes just restarting the Dock suffices. This can be accomplished by opening Activity Monitor (located in Applications/Utilities) and looking for the "Dock" process, then clicking the "Quit Process" button.

This will end all currently running Widget processes, which will not be re-activated until you again click the Dashboard icon and re-display active Widgets.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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