Computer using 100% cpu usage

[Deluxe2481]

Every time I start a program the cpu usage goes to 100% making the program take very long to start. Like internet explorer will take 45 sec to show up after I click on it. I wanted to know if there were any way to get my computer running back to a faster speed and not use the 100% of cpu usage. I got 2.6 GHz and 512 mb ram. Any help is appreciated.

 

[linney]

Very often this is a result of malware.

Removing adware & spyware
faq608-4650

Microsoft (GIANT Antispyware) Beta available
Thread779-979113

Try the free version of "Ewido"

http://www.ewido.net/en/

FAQ779-4784 may help.

windows XP running very slow
thread779-796508

Some general things to try.

See if System Restore will get you back to a restore point before your problem with Explorer.

Try Safe Mode (Do you have this problem in Safe Mode?).

Try running ChkDsk to check your drive for errors. Right click your Drive icon/ Properties/ Tools/ Error Checking.

Run the System File Checker program from the Run Box by typing.....Sfc /Scannow in it and have your XP CD handy.

HOW TO: Verify Unsigned Device Drivers in Windows XP

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q308/5/14.asp

If they don't work you could try repairing windows by running it over itself. You will lose all your windows updates but your files will be untouched.

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Reinstallation) of Windows XP (Q315341)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q315/3/41.asp

 

[Ddraig]

I've also noticed, not sure what type of environment you're in, but on our network users will sometimes print documents to the Microsoft Document Image writer. They'll jam that thing up with print jobs and then another user will go to use the computer and spoolsv.exe will be sucking up 100% of the CPU. Deleting the print jobs will usually resolve it.

What program is using 100% of the CPU?