I'm running a P4 2.4Ghz and the CPU load under task manager is always 100%. It is also incredibly loud. The idle *cough constant 100%* temp is about 54C. Running speeds of programs aren't slower. The process that uses 100% is called "System" (no Exe), also I can't end it. I guess its legit. Is this a bug with my motherboard? Strange and I just reformatted and reinstalled Windows. Also USB WLAN doesn't work, just reboots whenever I plug it in. Flash drives sometimes too, any USB that sucks a little power, it reboots. Thanks for the helP!

I think you will notice if you look closely the process you are referring to is the "System Idle Process" which is usually at or near 100% except when another program is using the CPU. If you click on the performance tab you will see that your machine is mostly idle. Hope this helps BG

I'm having the exact same problem with my PC and its not the "System Idle Process". I'm so sorry I don't have any answers for you but I'll be trying my best to find out what may be causing it. If you find a solution, PLEASE share it with me here. Thank you. PS Its not the EXACT same situation, as mine was not a new install or reformatted but the issue arised without having made any changes whatsoever to the hardware or software. This includes up to a couple weeks prior to the onset of the CPU staying at 100%