High CPU usage?

Question

I have Duo core laptop with 1GB RAM. I have two problems.

My laptop often shows high CPU usage approaching 100% although only few windows of Internet Explorer are open. Even if I do not run any application it shows usage of about 50%.

When I type, some characters do not get typed although I press corresponding keys. There is no problem with keyboard as all keys are working correctly.

Can anyone help?

Answer 1

Viruses and spyware can use lots of CPU time, as can the software meant to squash those issues. Check task manager for anything running above 20% of processor when your laptop is idle.

Also, high processor usage can be related to low system resources in the first place. Processor speed and cache, physical RAM, hard drive size/speed, and virtual memory swap file size can play into this.

(If you can, could you add what your system specs are and what anti-virus/anti-spyware software you leave running in the background are, along with any other applications you regularly run.)

Answer 2

The same thing is happening to me with my useless 2000 $ PC. i suspect that while i was playing one of these online multiplayers the host server tapped into my PC and screwed everything up. i have done multiple ( different companies) scans and nothing shows up. it seems as if the CPU is trying to do all the work even though i have an 8800gt oc GP. there is something called dma controller that is missing from my PC.it allows memory to be used without using CPU.OK, so i tried to update that driver, said no driver, clicked on other and it said driver working correctly.......... so anyway that's the only thing i know. also my files are missing and or moved around...and i didn't move anything. i bought some recovery disks and will most likely have to erase or replace the hard drive.

Answer 3

Press Control-Alt-Delete so the Task Manager pops up. The check Processes. You should see which process is using more of the CPU. If you don't recognize it, type the process name into Google and see what it brings up. There are sites that help identify these.

It could be something in the background, like Anti-virus or an auto update for one of your programs. Nortons always seems to be doing something.

It could also be an unwanted program, so scan for spyware and viruses if you can't find a logical answer.

Answer 4

If you have antivirus and has scheduled scan then thats the reason. You can check which program is getting too much cpu usage by the ff:
1. Open task manager (at lower right clock right click)
2. Goto Processes
3. Click Tab CPU twice (until list from hig to low)
4. Check those programs that's getting most of the CPU

Answer 5

Hi. Something is causing your CPU to apply it's attention to processes. Use 'Task Manager' to find out which. Some spyware or virus detection software can do this without your knowledge. Look at ZoneAlarm processes for instance.

Answer 6

ideally you want the CPU usage down to between 295-395 when you bring up task manager, processes to see whats running.
another thing you can do is reset msconfig, start-up. on laptop turn off things like adobe, reminder programs, etc.leave virus spyware running, program for you screen & pointer running.
if all else fails turn off little at a time, if for some reason need to turn some back on like maybe accidently turned screen off, just start up in safe mode and go back in and change.
this will change CPU usuage

Answer 7

There could be some spyware or adware installed on your system. Scan your system using some good antspyware or antivirus. Moreover, open the task manager and look for any processes which are taking CPU time.

Answer 8

press

ctrl+ shift+ delete

view processes, find what process are running