kernel_task high when connected to the network

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Level 1

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kernel_task high when connected to the network

Good morning,

I have a macmini server 2011, that for the last couple of days is having a really weird behavior.

First of, the fans are blowing at max speed from the minute 1, temperature @ the cpu is at 90º and doesnt go down, even when I have 0 tasks open.

The kernel_task process is at a constant 80%.

I have identified the issue to be internet related, by this I mean, if the network cable is plugged in I see the spike in temperatures and usage and a 1.8MB/s continued download from somewhere (cannot trace), it has been on for 2days and 21 hours and the network monitor shows it has downloaded nearly 500GB of data.

I have installed little snitch to see if it could capture the process, but to my surprise that 1.8MB/s download stream is not being registered.

If I remove the cable then the macmini goes back to "normal".

I dont know what to do, and would love to avoid having to reinstall.

Hope you can help me.

Kind regards,

Sergio.

Mac mini, Mac OS X (10.7.5)

Posted on Jan 17, 2013 1:34 AM

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Answer 1

Linc Davis

Level 10

209,547 points

Jan 17, 2013 10:20 AM in response to spaya

Please read this whole message before doing anything.

This procedure is a diagnostic test. It’s unlikely to solve your problem. Don’t be disappointed when you find that nothing has changed after you complete it.

The purpose of the test is to determine whether your problem is caused by third-party system modifications that load automatically at startup or login.

Disconnect all wired peripherals except those needed for the test, and remove all aftermarket expansion cards. Boot in safe mode* and log in to the account with the problem. The instructions provided by Apple are as follows:

Shut down your computer, wait 30 seconds, and then hold down the shift key while pressing the power button.
When you see the gray Apple logo, release the shift key.
If you are prompted to log in, type your password, and then hold down the shift key again as you click Log in.

*Note: If FileVault is enabled under OS X 10.7 or later, or if a firmware password is set, or if the boot volume is a software RAID, you can’t boot in safe mode.

Safe mode is much slower to boot and run than normal, and some things won’t work at all, including wireless networking on certain Macs. The next normal boot may also be somewhat slow.

The login screen appears even if you usually log in automatically. You must know your login password in order to log in. If you’ve forgotten the password, you will need to reset it before you begin.

Test while in safe mode. Same problem?

After testing, reboot as usual (i.e., not in safe mode) and verify that you still have the problem. Post the results of the test.

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