Monitor.exe: What It Is & Should I Remove It?

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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Have you ever opened your Windows Task Manager and noticed a process called Monitor.exe running in the background? If so, you may be wondering what it is and whether or not you should remove it. In this article, we will explore Monitor.exe in detail and provide you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Windows Task Manager

What is Monitor.exe?

Monitor.exe is a legitimate Windows process that is responsible for monitoring system performance and resource usage. It is a part of the Windows Performance Monitor tool, which is used to collect and analyze system performance data. The process is typically located in the C:/Windows/System32 folder and is started automatically when you boot up your computer.

Monitor.exe is not a virus or malware, and it is not harmful to your computer. It is a necessary component of the Windows operating system and should not be removed unless you are experiencing issues with it.

Should I Remove Monitor.exe?

In general, you should not remove Monitor.exe from your computer. As mentioned earlier, it is a legitimate Windows process that is necessary for monitoring system performance and resource usage. Removing it could cause issues with your computer’s performance and stability.

However, there are some situations where you may want to remove Monitor.exe. For example, if you notice that the process is using a significant amount of CPU or memory resources, it could be a sign of a problem. In this case, you may want to run a scan with a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program, such as Malwarebytes Free, to check for any infections or malware that could be causing the issue.

If you are still experiencing issues after running a scan, you may want to consider disabling the Windows Performance Monitor tool altogether. This can be done by following these steps:

  1. Open the Windows Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc.
  2. Click on the “More details” button if you are in the compact view.
  3. Click on the “Performance” tab.
  4. Click on the “Open Resource Monitor” link at the bottom of the window.
  5. In the Resource Monitor window, click on the “Monitoring” tab.
  6. Uncheck the box next to “Enable monitoring (per session)” and “Enable monitoring (all sessions).”
  7. Click on the “Apply” button and then the “OK” button.

Disabling the Windows Performance Monitor tool will prevent Monitor.exe from running in the background and using system resources. However, keep in mind that this may also prevent you from accessing important system performance data.

Conclusion

Monitor.exe is a legitimate Windows process that is responsible for monitoring system performance and resource usage. It is not a virus or malware and should not be removed unless you are experiencing issues with it. If you notice that the process is using a significant amount of CPU or memory resources, you may want to run a scan with a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program, such as Malwarebytes Free, to check for any infections or malware that could be causing the issue. If you are still experiencing issues, you may want to consider disabling the Windows Performance Monitor tool altogether. However, keep in mind that this may also prevent you from accessing important system performance data.

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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