System and method for predictive idle-time task initiation

摘要

A system automatically determines probable idle times for a computing system and performs maintenance tasks, such as virus scanning, during these times. A prediction of probable idle times is based on an assessment of a user's past use or by an aggregate of information from several users if a company wishes to determine optimal times for running such tasks or pushing software patches to employees. A policy table set by the user or a company determines the priority of maintenance tasks to be run during the predicted idle time.