Then it's not the number of processes. Right now I have a total of 50
Processes running at one and my CPU usage as I type this is averaging
between 2% and 5%. Look at the list, if anything is running consistently
high or consistently jumping to a high level, you either have a problem with
an application associated with the process or you have a virus or some
malware on your system that is the source of the issue. NOTE: System Idle
Process usually runs in the 90s, that's normal.
First, be sure your antivirus is up to date and run a fully scan on your
system.
Second, download, install and run Ad Aware:
www.lavasoftusa.com
If clear, then check out the process that is running at consistently high
numbers or consistently jumps that high. If it's a system process such as
svchost.exe, it's most assuredly either a balky application, driver or you
have a virus or malware on your system.