The Local Security Authority Service (Lsass.exe) process shows extensive memory usage and then stops responding on Windows Server 2003-based domain controllers that are part of a cluster environment

In a cluster environment that consists of Microsoft Windows Server 2003-based domain controllers, the Local Security Authority Service (Lsass.exe) process is running on the domain controllers. The Lsass.exe process shows extensive memory usage. Then, the Lsass.exe process stops responding, and you may have to restart the domain controllers in the cluster.

To resolve this problem, install the hotfix that is mentioned in the following Microsoft Knowledge Base article:

Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed in the "Applies to" section.

For more information about the terms that are used to describe software updates, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

Technical support for x64-based versions of Microsoft Windows

If your hardware came with a Microsoft Windows x64 edition already installed, your hardware manufacturer provides technical support and assistance for the Windows x64 edition. In this case, your hardware manufacturer provides support because a Windows x64 edition was included with your hardware. Your hardware manufacturer might have customized the Windows x64 edition installation by using unique components. Unique components might include specific device drivers or might include optional settings to maximize the performance of the hardware. Microsoft will provide reasonable-effort assistance if you need technical help with a Windows x64 edition. However, you might have to contact your manufacturer directly. Your manufacturer is best qualified to support the software that your manufacturer installed on the hardware. If you purchased a Windows x64 edition such as a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 x64 edition separately, contact Microsoft for technical support.

For product information about Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, visit the following Microsoft Web site: For product information about x64-based versions of Microsoft Windows Server 2003, visit the following Microsoft Web site: