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

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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Steamwebhelper.exe is a process that runs in the background when you launch Steam, the popular gaming platform. It is responsible for rendering web pages within the Steam client and is used for various features such as the Steam Store, community pages, and in-game overlays. However, some users have reported issues with this process, including high CPU usage and slow performance. In this article, we will explore what Steamwebhelper.exe is, its purpose, and whether or not you should remove it.

Windows Task Manager

What Is Steamwebhelper.exe?

Steamwebhelper.exe is a legitimate process that is part of the Steam client. It is used to render web pages within the Steam client and is responsible for various features such as the Steam Store, community pages, and in-game overlays. The process is located in the Steam installation folder and is typically found in the following directory:

  • C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\bin\cefcef.win7steamwebhelper.exe

Steamwebhelper.exe is not a virus or malware, and it is not harmful to your computer. However, some users have reported issues with this process, including high CPU usage and slow performance. In some cases, this can be caused by a corrupted installation of Steam or outdated drivers.

Should I Remove Steamwebhelper.exe?

If you are experiencing issues with Steamwebhelper.exe, you may be wondering if you should remove it. The answer is no. Steamwebhelper.exe is a critical component of the Steam client, and removing it can cause issues with the functionality of the platform.

Instead of removing Steamwebhelper.exe, you should try to troubleshoot the issue. One of the first things you can do is to update your drivers. Outdated drivers can cause issues with the performance of your computer, including high CPU usage. You can use a driver updater tool like Driver Booster to scan for outdated drivers and update them automatically.

If updating your drivers does not resolve the issue, you can try to verify the integrity of the game files in Steam. This will check for any corrupted files and replace them if necessary. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
  2. Right-click on the game that is causing the issue and select Properties.
  3. Click on the Local Files tab and select Verify Integrity of Game Files.
  4. Wait for the process to complete and then try launching the game again.

If none of these solutions work, you can try reinstalling Steam. This will remove any corrupted files and give you a fresh installation of the platform. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Control Panel and select Programs and Features.
  2. Find Steam in the list of installed programs and select Uninstall.
  3. Follow the prompts to uninstall Steam.
  4. Download the latest version of Steam from the official website and install it.

Is Steamwebhelper.exe a Virus?

No, Steamwebhelper.exe is not a virus or malware. It is a legitimate process that is part of the Steam client. However, like any other process, it can be targeted by malware that disguises itself as Steamwebhelper.exe. If you suspect that your computer is infected with malware, you should scan your system with a reputable antivirus program like Malwarebytes Free.

Malwarebytes Free is a powerful antivirus program that can detect and remove malware from your computer. It is easy to use and offers real-time protection against malware, ransomware, and other threats. You can download Malwarebytes Free from the official website and run a scan to check for any malware on your system.

Conclusion

Steamwebhelper.exe is a legitimate process that is part of the Steam client. It is responsible for rendering web pages within the Steam client and is used for various features such as the Steam Store, community pages, and in-game overlays. While some users have reported issues with this process, it is not harmful to your computer, and you should not remove it.

If you are experiencing issues with Steamwebhelper.exe, you should try to troubleshoot the issue by updating your drivers, verifying the integrity of game files, or reinstalling Steam. If you suspect that your computer is infected with malware, you should scan your system with a reputable antivirus program like Malwarebytes Free.

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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