100 % CPU usage

[mikemnf]

I was haveing a problem with speed on my laptop so I checked the performance in task manager. When I did I found out the CPU was running at 100% even when I stopped all applications. I then went to check processes and found I had 2 processes showing high numbers under CPU. I don't remember the name of the one I ended, but when I did my perfomance figures dropped down to 0 and bounced up when I moved the mouse. The System Idle Process is still showing 97,99,9498,99,etc.. The performance figures are runing at 0 to 4% except when I start typeing then they jump up sometimes very highbut mostly sty uner 10% What does it mean when it shows figures like that, and how do I know what should be normal processes to be running? I have 1.5 gig of RAM.

Mike

[Lespaul20]

What OS are you running and what kind of Laptop is this? It's not uncommon to spike to %100. Find out what process is taking the CPU.

[kmillerusaf]

It would probably be best to tell us a few things about your laptop... First, what are some of the specs? CPU speed, amount of RAM, HD capacity, etc... Second, what O/S are you using? XP, Vista, 2000? Third, are your running any anti-virus and spyware programs constantly? When I first read it, I immediately thought it was a virus or some sport of spyware/malware but I could be wrong. A clear picture of what you are working with will help all of better diagnose your problem.

Your System Idle process should read that high if you aren't putting any demand on the laptop. If your system is running slow, I would run CCleaner and defrag the system.

[mikemnf]

I cant believe that I did that. I have a Toshiba Satellite,17.5" wide screen, Intel Centrino 1.73 GHz, 1.49 GB RAM, 74.3 GB HDD, 51.9 GB free, XP Home, NTFS, onboard video and audio. I just installed a new HP printer which is hooked up via ethernet cable to my wireless modem and I noticed when I rebooted last that the process that was running soo high started with hpXXXX. Stopped it immediately. CPU usage dropped to between 0 and 7% when nothing happening eg. mouse movement. It seems the problem might have something to do with the printer?? I have another Toshiba laptop and a PC useing the same printer, but no problems on them. I do not run any anti spyware or anti virus. Whenever I have had MacAfee or Norton I have had problems related to them running with other applications. I am supposed to be protected by my IP?? I am going to run a cleanup and defrag as per recomendation.

Mike

Glad you found the problem however, I would not trust just my IP to protect my computer. Most here, myself included don't recommend MacAfee. I use Norton on both my desktops and laptop and I've had no issues however most here don't recommend Norton either. There are several free antivirus/antispyware programs out there that should not conflict with your applications. I assume you have the XP firewall on but I strongly recommend you get some kind of antivirus/antispyware protection.