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What’s gc_extension_service.exe? Is it safe or a virus?

gc_extension_service.exe is a background process developed by Microsoft Corporation. It is responsible for managing and running extension services within the Microsoft Azure software.

On April 23, 2024 Microsoft released Azure Connected Machine Agent 1.40. In the release notes it says that the update has "new executable names for the extension manager (gc_extension_service) and machine configuration (gc_arc_service) agents on Windows to help you distinguish the two services."

Researched by Laura @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about gc_extension_service.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes gc_extension_service.exe?

We’ve found Microsoft Corporation should be the publisher of gc_extension_service.exe.

How do we know? Our SpyShelter cybersecurity labs focuses on monitoring different types of Windows PC executables and their behaviors for our popular SpyShelter Antispyware software. Learn more about us, and how our cybersecurity team studies Windows PC executables/processes.

What does it mean if someone is the publisher of a PC .exe (executable or process)?

The publisher of an executable is the entity responsible for its distribution and authenticity. Most processes/executables on your PC should be signed. The signature on the executable should have been verified through a third party whose job it is to make sure the entity is who it says it is. Find an unsigned executable? You should consider scanning any completely unsigned .exe on your PC.

Last updated: April 27, 2024

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Why should you trust us?

Our team at SpyShelter has been studying Windows PC executables for over 15 years, to help fight against spyware, malware, and other threats. SpyShelter has been featured in publications like The Register, PC Magazine, and many others. Now we’re working to share free, actionable, and easy to understand information about Windows executables (processes) with the world, to help as many people as possible keep their devices safe. Learn more about us on our "About SpyShelter” page.

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