genric host process win32

Go to the site below and type in any program you want to check. Type it exactly .. case also.
http://www.processlibrary.com/

Sometimes spyware calls it's processes win32. You need to be very specific to make sure people can answer you with that in mind.

The program full name is c:\windows\system32\svchost.exe. I would like to know what it is and what it does so that and if I should allow it to act as a server on the internet. Thank you for your reply.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314056

This article explains it and tells you how to check to see what svchost is running. You may want to post what services svchost is running or google them if you suspect them of being a virus.

Unless YOU want it to act as a server on the internet, you probably shouldn't let it.

Are you trying to run a server, host a webpage or allow remote login? Those may require a service that svchost runs. If you are not doing that, then I would say don't let it. If you post the services, we may be able to help you isolate which one is doing it.

This website tells you how to turn off services.
http://www.jasonn.com/turning_off_unnecessary_services_on_windows_xp

When you get to the service section, there is a description of what each service does. You can turn off services you don't need or use to help speed up your computer. Google "turn off services in xp". There are several websites, usually run by gamers, that give you service information in a chart on how to set services for faster running.

That is a legitimate windows file (and needed for a lot more than being a server), you should not kill it.

That being said, sometimes malware infects that process, so if you are having any symptoms of malware on your computer you might want to look into it (it won't be that easy, but we can help you if needed). But the overwhelming majority of the time it's just what it is: a crucial component of Windows.

svchost runs other services that can be turned on and off. svchost itself needs to run

Thank all of you for the information it help a lot.