NWJS Process Explained – Is NWJS Malware or Legit? Read This
Written by: Stelian
Published on:
The NWJS process is a relatively common sight in Windows Task Manager for many users. But what exactly is NWJS? Is it a vital system process or a sketchy malware threat? This in-depth guide will uncover everything you need to know about NWJS.
What is the NWJS Process?
NWJS stands for Node Webkit JavaScript. It is an open source framework for developing desktop applications using web technologies like HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
The NWJS framework essentially allows developers to build desktop apps with frontend interfaces powered by web UI frameworks. It bundles the Node.js runtime environment and Chromium browser capabilities into a single runtime for building these hybrid native/web apps.
Some key capabilities provided by NWJS include:
Access to Node.js modules for backend capabilities like file system access, child processes, databases, etc.
DOM manipulation and JavaScript execution via Chromium’s V8 engine.
HTML5 and CSS3 support for building rich user interfaces.
Integration of web APIs like IndexedDB and WebSockets.
Multi-platform support for deploying on Windows, Mac and Linux.
When you see a process called NWJS running in Task Manager, it is from an app built using this framework. The process executes the underlying NWJS engine to render the UI and run the app’s JavaScript code.
Why Does the NWJS Process Run?
The main reason you will see NWJS running on your system is because you have installed apps created with NWJS, like Slack, Visual Studio Code, or Spotify.
These apps need the NWJS process to run continuously in the background to power their frontend interface and overall functionality.
Specifically, the NWJS process does things like:
Render HTML/CSS/JS that makes up the app’s user interface
Execute the JavaScript logic for the app
Enable access to native OS capabilities like files and hardware
Facilitate communication with the backend server
So in short, the NWJS process runs persistently to make apps built on this framework work properly. Ending the task would cause the associated app to stop working correctly.
Is the NWJS Process Malware? Should I Be Worried?
The NWJS process is not malware. As long as the file path for NWJS leads to the app you installed, it is a legitimate process powering the app and nothing to worry about.
Some key points:
Open source NWJS is safe framework used by many reputable apps.
Top apps like Slack, Spotify, Skype all rely on NWJS.
NWJS needs to run constantly so apps function normally.
Ending task improperly will break apps relying on it.
You only need to investigate if you see multiple NWJS processes or the file path is suspicious. But in most cases, NWJS will be linked to apps you knowingly installed.
So rest assured that seeing NWJS running is normal and not indicative of any malware or virus. It is a benign process that is required for many popular desktop programs to work properly.
What Apps Use NWJS?
Many top apps across various categories utilize the NWJS framework and will show the NWJS process in Task Manager, including:
Messaging & Communication
Slack – Team collaboration and chat app.
Discord – Free voice and text chat app for gamers.
Skype – Video chat and instant messaging app.
Music & Entertainment
Spotify – Popular music streaming service.
Netflix – Video streaming platform for movies/TV.
Twitch – Live game streaming and esports platform.
Developer Tools
Visual Studio Code – Lightweight code editor from Microsoft.
GitHub Desktop – Open source Git client.
Apache NetBeans – Java IDE.
Productivity & Utilities
Wunderlist – Task management and to-do list app.
Caprine – Unofficial Facebook messenger client.
Rambox – Messaging and email hub app.
Shift – Work schedule management app.
And many moreacross business, design, photography, and other categories. Any desktop app built on NWJS will have the associated process running in the background.
Normal Resource Usage of NWJS
Like any process, the NWJS engine uses a certain amount of your computer’s CPU, memory, disk and network bandwidth to function. This resource usage varies depending on which NWJS app you are running.
Here are some general guidelines for normal NWJS behavior:
CPU – Up to 2-4% utilization with spikes during active use.
Memory – 50 to 150 MB range typically. Can go higher for certain apps.
Disk – Very minimal read/write activity.
Network – Low traffic. Mainly checks for app updates.
High CPU or RAM utilization by NWJS could indicate an issue with the associated app hogging resources. But in general, the NWJS process aims to be lightweight and is not intensive itself.
You mainly need to watch for any NWJS processes using abnormally high resources beyond expected levels. That would signify a problem with the individual app, not NWJS itself.
How to Check NWJS File Location
As mentioned before, the key way to verify NWJS is safe is to check where it originates from. The file path will tell you which app it is tied to.
Here are quick steps to check NWJS file location in Windows:
Launch Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc)
Go to the “Processes” tab
Right click on any NWJS process
Select “Open file location”
This will open Windows Explorer to the executable file path of NWJS. You can then see which app directory it is contained within, and verify it matches an app you knowingly installed.
You can also use the Properties window or command line tools like Handle or Process Explorer to check NWJS file path if needed.
Is Ending the NWJS Process Safe?
In most cases, manually ending the NWJS process is not recommended. The apps relying on NWJS will immediately stop working properly if you forcibly end it.
NWJS needs to run persistently for the associated app to function. You are essentially terminating the app by ending NWJS. Any app crashes, lost data, or instability caused will be on you.
However, ending NWJS may very rarely be needed as a last resort if an app is completely frozen with runaway NWJS usage. This forcibly restarts the app and NWJS process. But this should only be done if absolutely necessary.
Restarting your PC will also safely restart NWJS if you just need to reset it without directly ending the task. This is the best approach if you suspect NWJS-related issues.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
While its name may seem vague at first glance, NWJS is actually a key process that runs many popular desktop applications on Windows. It executes the necessary engine to power apps built with the NWJS framework.
Now that you understand its pivotal role in delivering the frontend experience for Slack, Spotify, Visual Studio Code and more, you can rest easy knowing NWJS is not malware.
The NWJS process is a benign and expected part of running apps that rely on it. While its resource usage and troubleshooting may require occasional monitoring, you need not proactively end the task or worry about security risks.
With the tips in this guide, you can optimize NWJS performance, resolve any issues that arise, and verify the process is tied to legitimate applications.
So the next time you notice NWJS running in Task Manager, remember it is simply enabling many of your favorite programs to function normally. As long as the file path checks out, NWJS is safe to ignore and allow to operate smoothly in the background.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
About Stelian
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
