Task manager reports "System" running at 50% load during I..

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.security_admin (More info?)

sph wrote:

> I'm concerned I've picked up a virus. With no load on the system, one
> logged in user, no apps running, the system is very sluggish. Task
> Manager reports that the image named "System" running under the Local
> System userid
> is taking over 50% of the CPU. "System Idle Process" is taking the
> other 50%.
>
> What could be happening here? What is this basic "System" process?
> The
> kernel? What could cause it to spin out of control like this?
>
> A reboot temporarily fixes it.
>
> On a 530HT processor w/XP SP2 installed.
>
> thx,
> s

Since you are concerned about a virus, what does a scan with a current
version (not earlier than 2004) antivirus using updated definitions
show? Do the scan in Safe Mode.

Malke
--
MS MVP - Windows Shell/User
www.elephantboycomputers.com
In Memoriam - MVP Alex Nichol
The world is diminished without him.