using 99% processor - unable to end the process

[mtstream]

After install and reboot the gcasdtserve.exe process
consumes 99% of the processor. End process and End
process tree attempts are unsucessful.

Went into safe mode, but unable to uninstall "windows
installer cannot start in safe mode"

Looked in the statup folder, services, and HKEY_Current
User\...\Run but cannot find where it is starting from.

1. Any idea what's causing the problem (see below for
more info)?
2. How to stop it from launching so that it can be
uninstalled?

Background:
New system install - only about 3-4wks old.
Originally had Sunbelt Software's anti-spy software trial
version (also uses Giant's engine).
Microsoft's product was downloaded and installed - then
Sunbelt was uninstalled. When the system rebooted the
processor is overwhelmed.

Thanks

 

[Bill Sanderson]

After install and reboot the gcasdtserve.exe process
consumes 99% of the processor. End process and End
process tree attempts are unsucessful.

Went into safe mode, but unable to uninstall "windows
installer cannot start in safe mode"

Looked in the statup folder, services, and HKEY_Current
User\...\Run but cannot find where it is starting from.

1. Any idea what's causing the problem (see below for
more info)?
2. How to stop it from launching so that it can be
uninstalled?

Background:
New system install - only about 3-4wks old.
Originally had Sunbelt Software's anti-spy software trial
version (also uses Giant's engine).
Microsoft's product was downloaded and installed - then
Sunbelt was uninstalled. When the system rebooted the
processor is overwhelmed.

I'd have preferred the sequence: Uninstall Sunbelt, then Install Microsoft,
but I won't say that's the cause of the issue--no idea.

I would use MSCONFIG. First try the Diagnostic mode checkbox, and see if
that will allow the installer to work--I should know this, but don't!

If that doesn't do it, go to the startup tab, and enable everything, then
check the box to hide all Microsoft services, and disable everything that is
left, and restart in that mode.

If you are using a third-party firewall, this probably won't start, so
disconnect from the Internet or be aware that you are depending on your
router or whatever, during this boot.

I don't know whether you can set up the MSCONFIG boots from within safe
mode.

You might also want to consider using the Installer Cleanup application:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;290301

(probably after you've done both uninstalls--just to see if it sees any
remnants.)

 

[mtstream]

Forgot about MSConfig :}

Unchecked the process (gcasdtserv) and rebooted in normal
mode. Uninstalled Microsoft's anti-spyware - went back
into MSConfig and set to "Normal". Rebooted OK.

Re-installed MS spyware and rebooted - everythings OK!

I do believe the problems were caused by the order of
install/uninstall with Sunbelt.

 

[Bill Sanderson]

Terrific! I still need to figure out for myself the most restrictive
MSCONFig startup that will allow the Installer to work, 'cause I've got a
question about the Malicious Software Removal tool that probably needs that
for an answer.

Glad that sorted it out for you!

 

[S_PARKER]

Hello,
Platform: Windows xp Prof / Mcafee VirusScan8.0i - Epol
console / Update Expert (Patch managment software / Spybot

I am currently evaluating the beta version and am
experiencing the same issues as `mtstream`
I found the best thing to get rid of this process, is
once signed on as soon possible, go into task manager and
end the process. This took a few goes, however it will
stop. Then remove the application (May get an error
concerning registration of a file)
I re-installed and has been ok for 2 weeks now.
Microsoft Feature.!?

 

[Bill Sanderson]

Bug--thanks for the report.