My CPU usage keeps reaching 100% and computer goes really slow

[kev_chiara]

Hi. I do not know much about computers and am noticing my computer is running stupidly slow. I have checked the task manager and the CPU usage regularly reaches 100% with IExplore.exe appearing to be the main culprit.

I use Windows XP and Internet Explorer 8, with Norton 360 as my anti-virus software.

I ran CCleaner recently which cleaned up some files (I didn't touch the registry section), but the computer is still the same.

If anyone can tell me how I can get my computer running fast again I would really appreciate it.

Look forward to your response,

Many thanks,

Kev.

[MrDarn]

Have you ran any virus scans lately?

i'd follow the instructions in the following article, just to be sure its not a hidden nasty:

Before posting read this first!

Once you're done with that, pop back and let us know how you get on.

[Digerati]

How much RAM do you have? Note that Norton products are not known for their thrifty use of resources.

Also note that most problems with IE (8 or 9) are due to corrupt, misbehaving, or conflicting add-ons. If me, I would reset IE (Tools > Internet Options > Advanced > Reset). This will remove any and all add-ons and return IE to its default settings. If speed returns to normal, then you can re-add your add-ons, but one at time.

That said, I agree with Mr Darn and recommend you follow his lead first to ensure this is not a malware issue.

[DonnaB]

I also agree with MrDarn. Eliminate the possibility of malware or your troubleshooting efforts could be fruitless.

Also to add to Digerati's suggestion to eliminate the possibility of an Add-on issue and you don't want to reset IE to default settings, you could just restart IE with no Add-ons as follows:

Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Internet Explorer (No Add-ons)

Just my $0.02

[kev_chiara]

Hi, thanks for the responses

I have just carried out a full scan and do not have any virus or spyware on the machine.

I will try the Internet Explorer option next and see what happens.

As far as RAM goes, i think i have 1.5

[MrDarn]

With all due respect, did you follow the instructions in the link i supplied?

the reason so many help sites have dedicated spyware forums is because anti-virus and anti-spyware programs are based on a list of known threats, and can miss new nasties.

Of course, that is your choice, and the internet explorer option could quite easily solve your problem.

[kev_chiara]

With all due respect, did you follow the instructions in the link i supplied?

the reason so many help sites have dedicated spyware forums is because anti-virus and anti-spyware programs are based on a list of known threats, and can miss new nasties.

Of course, that is your choice, and the internet explorer option could quite easily solve your problem.

Mr Darn, Please excuse my ignorance with computers I didn't read the link because I just assumed that Norton would pick up everything.

I am currently running the first thing SUPERantispyware and it has found 313 threats so far! Once that has done I guess I should then go through the other steps including the Hijack This log?

Thanks,

Kev.

[zep516]

Once that has done I guess I should then go through the other steps including the Hijack This log?

Kev, that's correct. Please post all the logs including Malwarebytes log.

Joe

[MrDarn]

Just like some infections are browser specific, others are designed to hide from certain pieces of software, like anti-virus software.

This *can* however, be noticed by a system slowdown, and often 100% use of certain processes. (like in your case)
It could also be just a bad add-on install too!

having said that, most of those threats found by superantispyware should not be too serious, mainly tracking cookies and the like.

Once you are done, post the logs to a new thread in the spyware forum and follow their advice there. Let your helper know you have an open thread in Computer Help, so they can get some history of advice given. Don't be afraid to ask anything you like in there, remember its your computer!

I'm sure it'll be nothing too serious.

See you on the other side!

[kev_chiara]

Hi. I am currenty in safe mode on my computer after doing the Hijackthis thing that your threads asked me to do.
I'm now stuck though as it says I need toRun Windows Update on the instructions but I do not know how to.

Help would be greatly appreciated

Thanks

Kev