FAQ: Q13

Link: http://www.ilopia.com/FAQ/FAQ.aspx?id=13


I installed Windows Server 2003 on my dual processor system, but it's only using one processor, why? It used them both in Windows 2000/XP.

As a rule of thumb all Pentium PROs will not use more then one CPU on Windows Server 2003. You will probably also have problems with Pentium II CPUs with a speed less then 300Mhz. The reason why you cant use more then one of these CPUs is because they have serious flaws that Windows 2000 and Windows XP has a patch to work around. Because of stability and performance this has been disabled in Windows Server 2003. If you are unsure whether you are affected by this or not, you can check the server before you install. Follow these steps to check this:

  • Insert the Windows Server 2003 CD
  • On the Setup Screen, click Check System Compatibility, click Check my system automatically

If the server is affected by this the Setup will inform you that you will only be able to use one CPU.

Link(s):

Windows Server 2003 May Not Use Multiple Processors with Some Pentium Pro or Pentium II Processors
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=319091

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