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

Have you ever opened the Windows Task Manager and noticed a process called Runtimebroker.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’ll explore what Runtimebroker.exe is, what it does, and whether or not it’s safe to remove.

What is Runtimebroker.exe?

Runtimebroker.exe is a Windows system process that is responsible for managing permissions for Windows Store apps. It was first introduced in Windows 8 and has been included in every version of Windows since then.

When you install a Windows Store app, it needs to request certain permissions in order to function properly. For example, a photo editing app may need access to your photo library in order to allow you to edit your photos. Runtimebroker.exe is responsible for managing these permissions and ensuring that the app only has access to the resources it needs.

What does Runtimebroker.exe do?

As mentioned, Runtimebroker.exe manages permissions for Windows Store apps. When an app requests permission to access a resource, such as your camera or microphone, Runtimebroker.exe checks to see if the app has been granted permission to access that resource. If it has, Runtimebroker.exe allows the app to access the resource. If it hasn’t, Runtimebroker.exe prompts you to grant the app permission.

Runtimebroker.exe also manages app sandboxing. Sandboxing is a security feature that isolates apps from each other and from the rest of the system. This helps prevent apps from accessing resources they shouldn’t and helps prevent malware from spreading.

Is Runtimebroker.exe safe?

Yes, Runtimebroker.exe is a safe and essential Windows system process. It is not a virus or malware and should not be removed. Removing Runtimebroker.exe could cause Windows Store apps to stop working properly and could even cause system instability.

That being said, if you notice that Runtimebroker.exe is using an unusually high amount of CPU or memory, it could be a sign of a problem. In this case, it’s a good idea to run a scan with a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program, such as Malwarebytes Free, to ensure that your system is not infected with malware.

How to check if Runtimebroker.exe is running on your system

If you’re not sure if Runtimebroker.exe is running on your system, you can check by opening the Windows Task Manager. To do this, right-click on the taskbar and select “Task Manager” from the menu.

In the Task Manager, click on the “Details” tab. You should see a list of processes running on your system. Look for “Runtimebroker.exe” in the list. If it’s there, it means that Runtimebroker.exe is running on your system.

Conclusion

Runtimebroker.exe is an essential Windows system process that manages permissions for Windows Store apps and helps keep your system secure. It is not a virus or malware and should not be removed. If you notice that Runtimebroker.exe is using an unusually high amount of CPU or memory, it could be a sign of a problem and you should run a scan with a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program, such as Malwarebytes Free, to ensure that your system is not infected with malware.

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.