Xbox Live Networking Service Process: Why Is It Running?

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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Task Manager is a powerful tool in Windows that allows users to monitor and manage running processes on their computer. It provides valuable insights into the performance and resource usage of various applications and services. One process that users often come across in Task Manager is the “Xbox Live Networking Service” process. This article aims to explore why this process is running and its significance in the Windows ecosystem.

Windows Task Manager

Understanding Xbox Live Networking Service

The Xbox Live Networking Service is a background process that is installed alongside the Xbox app on Windows. It is responsible for facilitating communication between your PC and Xbox Live servers. Xbox Live is an online gaming service provided by Microsoft, allowing gamers to connect, play, and communicate with each other.

When you launch the Xbox app or any game that utilizes Xbox Live features, the Xbox Live Networking Service process starts running in the background. It ensures a seamless gaming experience by handling tasks such as matchmaking, party chat, and multiplayer connectivity.

Why Does Xbox Live Networking Service Run in Task Manager?

Seeing the Xbox Live Networking Service process running in Task Manager is completely normal and expected if you have the Xbox app installed on your Windows 10 PC. It is not a cause for concern or a sign of any malicious activity.

The process runs in the background to ensure that your PC can communicate with Xbox Live servers and provide you with the full range of online gaming features. It helps maintain a stable connection, enables multiplayer functionality, and allows you to interact with your friends on Xbox Live.

While the Xbox Live Networking Service process may consume some system resources, it is generally lightweight and should not significantly impact the performance of your PC. However, if you notice unusually high CPU or memory usage by this process, it could indicate an issue that needs further investigation.

Ensuring the Legitimacy of Xbox Live Networking Service

As with any process running on your computer, it is essential to verify the legitimacy of the Xbox Live Networking Service to ensure that it is not malware or a potential security threat. Here are a few steps you can take to confirm its authenticity:

  1. Check the file location: Right-click on the process in Task Manager and select “Open file location.” It should navigate you to the “C:\Program Files\Windows\Apps\Microsoft.GamingServices_<version>” folder. If the file location is different or suspicious, it may indicate a problem.
  2. Scan for viruses and malware: It is always a good practice to regularly scan your computer for viruses and malware. You can use reputable antivirus software or Malwarebytes Free to perform a thorough scan and ensure the integrity of your system.
  3. Update Windows and Xbox app: Keeping your operating system and applications up to date is crucial for security. Make sure you have the latest Windows updates installed, as well as the most recent version of the Xbox app.

Conclusion

The Xbox Live Networking Service process running in Task Manager is a legitimate component of the Xbox app on Windows 10. It plays a vital role in facilitating communication between your PC and Xbox Live servers, enabling online gaming features and multiplayer functionality.

While it is normal for the process to run in the background, it is essential to ensure its legitimacy by checking the file location and regularly scanning your computer for viruses and malware. By following these steps, you can ensure a secure and enjoyable gaming experience on your Windows 10 PC.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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