No. High CPU or disk use from mds_stores means Spotlight is indexing, typically after a macOS update, migration or when you add many files.
It runs as root and isn't network-related.
mds_stores works together with mds and mdworker: mdworker extracts metadata from files, mds coordinates, and mds_stores writes the index. Heavy activity after updates is normal. If it never stops, rebuild the index by adding the drive to Spotlight's Privacy list, then removing it again in System Settings › Siri & Spotlight.
Facts
- Owner
- Apple (part of macOS)
- Network-related
- No
- Block it?
- Don’t block it
Should you worry?
No. High CPU or disk use from mds_stores means Spotlight is indexing, typically after a macOS update, migration or when you add many files. It settles down when indexing finishes.
Frequently asked questions
Why is mds_stores using so much CPU?
Spotlight is indexing: after an update, a migration or lots of new files. It calms down when indexing completes.
Can I disable mds_stores?
You can exclude folders or drives from Spotlight in System Settings › Siri & Spotlight › Spotlight Privacy. Turning off indexing completely breaks Spotlight search.
Does mds_stores use the network?
No. It works with local files only.