What Is An Antimalware Service Executable – TechWhoop

What Is Antimalware Service Executable? We have all been guilty of repeatedly asking each other this question. Today, you will receive all of your answers!

task manager antimalware

An antimalware service executable (also known as a MsMpEng.exe) is a system process that runs in the background on Windows computers. It is part of Microsoft’s Windows Defender security suite and is responsible for scanning for malicious software, such as viruses and spyware. The antimalware service executable runs automatically on a regular basis and can also be triggered manually by users.

This blog talks about antimalware service executables, what antimalware service executables have a high CPU, and what antimalware service executables have a high disk. So, keep studying and don’t leave out anything!

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What is windows antimalware service executable?

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free antivirus program for Windows 7 by Microsoft Defender, formerly known as Windows Defender, which is a component of Windows 10. This guarantees that every Windows 10 user, including those who opt not to install an antivirus program, always has one set up and operating. Windows 10 will disable any outdated antivirus software you may have installed and turn on Microsoft Defender. The same Microsoft Defender antivirus program is also included in Windows 11.

The background service that runs continuously in the background of Microsoft Defender is the Antimalware Service Executable process. It is responsible for carrying out all the tasks that a security application like Defender must perform, like checking files for malware when you access them, scanning the system in the background for harmful software, upgrading antivirus definitions, and more.

cpu

Even though Task Manager’s Processes tab lists the process as an antimalware service executable high CPU, its actual file name is MsMpEng.exe, which you can see on the Details tab.

The Windows Security program with Windows 10 and 11 allows you to customize Microsoft Defender, run scans, and view its scan history. The previous name of this program was “Windows Defender Security Center.”

See Also: How To Permanently Disable Windows Defender On Windows 10

Why is the antimalware service executable running a high CPU?

The fact that the antimalware service application operates continuously in the background is the primary factor in its excessive CPU usage. It actively monitors programs and data while running in the background, taking the proper action if it finds something harmful.

cpu malware

Additionally, the antimalware service executable consumes too much CPU time because it checks C: Program Files Windows Defender, which is its folder. Therefore, preventing the anti-malware service executable from scanning its folder is one way to lower CPU use.

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How Can I Prevent Antimalware Service Execution And Using Too Much CPU?

The two major methods to prohibit antimalware service executables from consuming too much CPU are rearranging Windows Security scans and blocking it from scanning their folder.

image antimalware

If the executable from scanning its folder or scans are postponed or delayed, real-time protection will be turned off.

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Avoid using anti-malware software From Scanning its Folder, Executable

  1. Press the WIN key on your keyboard and select the gear icon to open the Settings app.

windows settings antimalware service executable

2.Choose “Update and Security” from the available menu tiles.

antimalware privacy and security

3. Select “Windows Security” and hit “Virus and risk protection.

antimalware virus and threat protection

4. The Windows Security software program will be released in step four. Under “Virus & Threat Protection Settings,” select “Manage.”

antimalware service executable manage settings

5. Select “Folder” under “Add an exclusion” on the following page.

add exclusion antimalware service executable

6. Paste “C: Program Files Windows Defender” into the editor, then choose the folder by clicking the “Select Folder” button.

antimalware service executable add exclusion paste

7. A large modal will show as soon as you click “Select Folder”; be careful to select “Yes.”

The chosen folder has now been excluded and won’t be scanned.

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Turn off Real-time Protection and reschedule scans

  1. First, launch the Run Dialogue by pressing the WIN (Windows) + R key.

antimalware service executable windows run2. Enter “taskschd.msc” and then hit “OK.” The Task Scheduler app will launch as a result.

antimalware service executable run paste

3. Expand “Microsoft,” “Windows,” and “Task Scheduler tab.”

task scheduler

4. Select “Windows Defender” by scrolling down.

properties

5. Right-click “Windows Defender Scheduled Scan” and select “Properties.”

properties

6. “Run with maximum privileges” can be unchecked.

run with highest privileges

7. Deselect anything on the Conditions tab by selecting it.

antimalware service executable deselect items

8. While you’re still on the Triggers tab, click “New.

select new

9. After choosing the frequency, date, and time, click “OK.” Click the “OK” again.

turn off computer

10. Switch off your computer. This should prevent future instances of the antimalware service executable high disc from consuming excessive CPU resources.

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FAQs

Is Disabling the anti-malware service executable acceptable?

Should the Executable be disabled? Remember that Windows Defender is the only antimalware program you need to protect your computer from malware. Your machine is at risk of contracting digital viruses if msmpeng.exe is disabled. Normally, these threats are dealt with silently in the background.

Are executables for anti-malware services harmful?

A background-running element of Windows Security is the antimalware service executable. However, occasionally antimalware service executables might negatively affect Windows 10 machines by consuming too much CPU.

Does the anti-malware service executable need to be constantly running?

Disabling the process and even Microsoft Defender is perfectly OK. You can leave the antimalware service executable process active if it isn't running constantly at full speed. However, you may disable it if you're experiencing problems with ongoing resource consumption.

The anti-malware service executable uses a lot of CPU; why?

The antimalware service executable's ongoing background operation to deliver Real-time protection is the primary cause of this. While operating in the background, it actively monitors applications and data, taking the appropriate action if it discovers anything hazardous.

Do I need antivirus software, or will Windows Defender work just fine?

Microsoft Defender is now more prepared than ever to compete with other antivirus programs, but it still needs to catch up.

Why does the anti-malware program use so much RAM?

Anti-malware software continuously scans everything you download, access, or use to determine whether it is harmful. It takes speedy actions, which causes the issue of excessive memory and CPU utilization.

Antivirus or antimalware: which is more effective?

Users are shielded from the most recent, hazardous threats that are out there right now. Additionally, anti-malware often changes its rules more quickly than antivirus, making it the best defense against any new malware you might encounter online.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, The Antimalware Service Executable also helps keep your computer secure by performing regular scans of your system. It can be set to run at different times and frequencies depending on your preferences. To help ensure optimal security, it is important to keep the Antimalware Service Executable running at all times. If you are concerned that it is using too much of your computer’s resources, you can adjust the scanning frequency or disable the service entirely. However, be careful to install a different antivirus product to protect your computer from threats. We appreciate your reading!

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He is a Tech Geek, Gadget Expert, SEO Expert, Web Designer, and a Blogger. Having a technology background gives him a unique perspective on what is the latest and best when it comes to tech.