explorer.exe runs constantly hogging CPU and my computer runs constantly as if it is downloading or working extensively. Task manager indicates high cidaemon.exe as well as high explorer.exe activitity using 100% of my CPU. My computer is very slow in all applications and size is not the issue. Computer hangs during start up and I have to hit Escape at least 20 times to get start up moving. All updates are current and I just uninstalled IE8 because it simply compounded the problems. I regularly scan for viruses. Can anyone help as I have tried all that I can think of. I run Windows XP Media Edition SP3 and have had no previous problems until just the past few months. Thanks1 person needs an answerI do too

This may help... http://support.microsoft.com/kb/899869 -- Noel Paton CrashFixPC Nil Carborundum Illegitemi www.crashfixpc.co.uk

Thanks Noel. I did see that and it was not helpful as I do not have a "change preferences" that comes up as per step 2 in these instructions. Any other ideas?

" I do not have a "change preferences" that comes up as per step 2 in these instructions" ?? You certainly should have it there! Ah - it may be hidden if you window is small Once you have the Search pane up.... In that lovely blue pane with the nodding dog <yech> You'll see a list of options with a scroll bar.... At the bottom of the list are the three important ones Search the Internet Change preferences Turn off animated character If you see it there, then fine - finish the instructions (click on it, and click 'Without Indexing Service', then 'N0, do not enable Indexing Service', and OK) If you don't see it.... No matter - it can be done another way:- click on Start, then Run... into the data-entry box, type SERVICES.MSC click OK highlight the Indexing Service in the list Stop the service first, then r-click on the service, and select Properties In the local tab, you'll see a drop-down list for Startup type - select 'Disabled, and OK out. Reboot HTH - and good luck -- Noel Paton CrashFixPC Nil Carborundum Illegitemi www.crashfixpc.co.uk

Open Taskbar Properties (right-click the Task Bar and choose Properties) and ensure Hide Inactive Icons is selected (ticked). Restart your computer. The problem will be solved.The issue is caused by Windows XP failing to properly manage the icons in the Taskbar Notification Area. This is why many people report missing icons on the Notification Area. It seems Windows XP continually tries to update the Notification Area, so Explorer.exe runs continously.