Why is winlogon.exe taking 99% CPU utilization?

Question

My XP PC was running verrrry slow, almost locked up, but I was able to get to the task manager and find that winlogon.exe was taking 99% CPU utilization and used only 648k or RAM. I have a Compaq laptop running WinXP with 1GB memory and AMD Athlon 64 3200+ processor.

Any ideas?? Help!

Answer 1

It's a virus, can't say exactly which one. To remove it simply boot into safe mode, install an antivirus program (like Avast or Avira or AOl active virus shield) and scan your computer.

Usually in safe mode there are very few viruses that are able to infect system processes.

If by any chance even in safe mode the load process is still 99% i'm afraid the only safe solution would be to reinstall your operating and next tme be more careful about security.

Answer 2

It could be that your winlogon.exe is corrupted or there is a virus that is attached to your logon.



When did this problem start happening?



If only this week try performing System Restore. Restore your computer to an earlier date



To do System Restore:

a. Click on Start

b. Click on All Programs

c. Click on Accessories

d. Click on System Tools

e. Click on System Restore

f. System Restore will open

g. Click on Restore your computer to an earlier time

h. Click on Next

i. Try to choose a date last week or days ago that you are not having this problem.

g. Just follow the prompts, Click on Next

NOTE: The computer will logoff just let the computer do the restore



You can try disabling some 3rd party items so that we would know if it is something during startup

a. Click on Start

b. Click on Run

c. Type msconfig

d. Click on OK

e. You'll be getting System COnfiguration utility

f. Click on Startup Tab on the upper right corner

g. Press disable ALL

h. Press Apply

i. Press Close

j. Restart the computer



If same problem persist

Run http://safety.live.com. Do a full system scan

Run also http://www.ewido.net/onlinescan

Answer 3

Sounds like a virus, start the computer up in safe mode and run a virus scan

Answer 4

Likely a virus.

Answer 5

please visit these URLs:



https://answersrip.com/question/index?qid=20070329092551AART5CV

http://www.cybertechhelp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=97533

http://www.ozzu.com/ftopic72511.html

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/822834

http://www.annoyances.org/exec/forum/winxp/1076743957

http://www.ljtop.com/winxp_s_winlogon_exe_uses_99_of_cpu_209608192.html

http://www.neuber.com/taskmanager/process/winlogon.exe.html

http://www.geekstogo.com/forum/index.php?act=ST&f=37&t=152361



please spend a few moments to see the pages.