I don't know if this the RIGHT place to post, because  I don't know if it is a hardware, software or WHATEVER problem...   I am pretty much computer illiterate.
My CPU started running at 100% continually a day or two ago, and My videos are choppy and as are my games and just scrolling down a page.  I have checked my plug-ins to make sure I had current plug-ins, but I have had to download so many video things lately, I don't know what is necessary and what is redundant.Please open task manager to the Processes tab and sort on the "cpu" column (with highest usage at the top). Which process is using the most cycles?Firefox, Flash Player, Explorer, csrss, task manager, plug-in containerIs one of those using most of the cpu? Please list the percentages each uses.

Also, does the cpu spike to 100% only when you use Firefox?I am going to try to give you a screen shot of my task manager.  Also, I have a thread over on the malware forum that hasn't been resolved, so I still have to log online thru task manager/explorer.  Firefox is the only server I use. The cpu isn't just spiking, it is at a continual 100%.



Uploaded with ImageShack.usWe're not going to do ANYTHING else until your malware issue is resolved. It is not unlikely the two problems are related. I'm going to lock this thread for now. Please PM me after you get an "all clear" from the malware section (assuming the problem isn't cleared up).You sent me a PM saying that your system was infected and problems still remain after the malware was removed. SuperDave suggested you format and REINSTALL, but you don't have an OS CD.

I'm sorry, but I have to agree with Dave. There are some infections that are so severe the system will never fully recover and the only foolproof method of recovery is a new install.

1) If the problems you are having occur only when Firefox is running, I suggest you try a different browser.
2) You can also update flash player.
3) If the problems persist I strongly recommend purchasing a new Windows OS, formatting, and reinstalling.OP should be able to restore the computer to the original shipped condition.  There is a factory image on D-parition.  Compaq is F10, F11, or F12 at splash screen to begin the recovery process.

BTW, since Vista, OEM'S no longer supply CD's or any documentation with a computer.

Info from the Malware Section thread:
FACTORY_IMAGE - D:
Drive Letter   D
Volume Name   FACTORY_IMAGE
Volume Serial NUMBER   9CA4-6A86
File System   NTFS
Volume Capacity   11.52 GB
Volume Free Space   1.59 GB
Volume Used Space   9.93 GB