Computer Sleep Mode.?

:) well, I don't like Vista, but that's probably not doing it. Most likely it is performing a scheduled backup or defrag. what security software d you have? Yes malware can access your computer when it's asleep, IF they have permissions. there are some malware programs that can actually set up additional accounts, even admin accounts and have acces to your computer anytime it is running, whether it is asleep or not. If you suspect malware, spigot search and destroy and malwarebytes are very effective at finding and removing malware, and are totally safe (digitally signed, Norton approved) and are free.