ctfmon.exe finally dispatched. If not malware in disguise, an annoying and unneccessary reoccuring loaded file and a huge resource hog.

Shame on MS for this stupid confusing & redundant file being associated with their moribund browser (IE7), and all the trouble it causes. FF, here I come. You finally got me.

Here's how to stop it (XP Pro, and probably XP Home too) from loading, without any fancy programs or hacking.

From the desktop...
Start
Control Panel
Date, Time, Language, and Regional Options
Regional and Language Options
Languages TAB
Details Button
Advanced TAB
(x) "Turn off advanced text services" check box
OK, Apply.

This keeps the file in the system32 folder, but keeps it from launching. This way I can always turn the process back on if I ever need it.

If one ever needs access to asian charachters or rare alternative input devices, then it might come in handy, but for 99% of users, it can safely be put to sleep.