Why is Kernel_Task hogging so much memory?

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Why is Kernel_Task hogging so much memory?

I recently purchased a MacBook Pro a few weeks ago, and now I notice something strange. I have developed the habit of checking my Activity Monitor frequently, and I noticed that kernel_task is using almost a Gigabyte of memory. Why? I've looked around for reasons, but none have been as serious as my problem. It doesn't affect my Mac's performance, but I'm worried.

Could you please tell me what is going on and how I can get the memory usage down?

Thanks.

MacBook Pro, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.3)

Posted on Apr 26, 2013 7:43 AM

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Answer 1

Apr 26, 2013 7:48 AM in response to Elwyn123

Don't worry - kernel_task is presently using over 1.5GB of memory on my machine, but very little of the CPU.

It's normal.

Clinton

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Answer 2

Elwyn123 Author

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Apr 26, 2013 7:51 AM in response to clintonfrombirmingham

Sure, but most people say that their kernel_task is using a very small amound of memory.

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Answer 3

CT

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Apr 26, 2013 8:02 AM in response to Elwyn123

kernel_task is a big component of the underlying OS, so it's going to use some memory. Mine currently is at 1.86GB, but I've been running for over 30 days without a restart, and as more resources get usesd kernel_task takes more RAM. I find that about 1GB or so is typical on my machine.

Here is some good info about kernel_task:

Kernel_task taking up RAM in OS X

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