gcasDtServ.exe & 90% CPU usage

[Ed]

Just today, I had to remove Microsoft AntiSpyware program
from an XP Home Edition new computer.

The gcasDtServ.exe file was in some kind of endless loop
and showed a constant 90% CPU usage in Task Manager.
Computer was basically unusable. I could not stop or end
the process. It would immediately restart again and start
eating up CPU cycles within a few seconds.

It would not un-install in safe mode.
I stopped the GcasDtServ.exe loadup from MsConfig and
restarted in normal mode to uninstall.
I re-installed the program and updated it and seems stable
now.

This is the first problem I have had from at least 40
installations of this program.

Note: This program is useless on a crippled spyware
infested computer because it can not be installed in Safe
Mode.

But free Adware SE does install in Safe Mode and can be
used (I carry updated DEF file for the program on CDR).
It will clear enough or most of infestation to allow
computer to boot into normal mode with Internet access to
now install the free Microsoft AntiSpyware program.

Note: It fails miserably with a Hot Bar removal. Re-examine
that function. It needs a re-write of the program.

I usually explain to my clients that Microsoft AntiSpyware
is Microsoft's apology for the Explorer security holes and
to help keep them from moving to "not yet ready for prime
time" Fire Fox.

 

[John]

Oh? In my opinion, Firefox IS ready for prime-time, and
then some; it's only that many people don't know it yet,
or are afraid to take the sport car for a spin because
they're used to the ol' Chevette, or whatever. MS isn't
making a new Explorer for security reasons, but to try to
stem the switch to the better browser.

 

[OldBoy]

FireFox: Disable JavaScript Support
See: http://secunia.com/advisories/14820/

Prime-time: we are on different time-zones

Gr. Jan

 

[Andre Da Costa]

The main reason why you have Microsoft AntiSpyware in the first place is to
protect Internet Explorer.