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Our ultimate directory of Windows PC executables.Olk.exe is a file associated with Microsoft Outlook, a popular email and personal information management program. The olk.exe file is commonly found in the Outlook installation directory and is responsible for the storage and management of temporary files used by Outlook.
In 2022 Microsoft released a new version of Outlook. Since Outlook is such a critical part of Office for most people, Microsoft didn't force an update to the new version right away. Instead they added a switch in the old Outlook user interface that said "New Outlook" that could be switched on when the user is ready to use the new version.
When the Outlook user turns this switch on, then olk.exe is launched because it's related to the newer version of Outlook, and the management of its files.
It can be confusing to suddenly find strangely named processes running in the Windows Task Manager, like olk.exe. That's why we made our SpyShelter software.
Our app keeps track of changes to different Windows executables, so when a new unusual process appears on your PC, you can immediately know if it's safe. SpyShelter also has "insights" on all the different executables on your PC, so you can immediately read what the executable does whenever a new .exe appears.
To try SpyShelter for free click "download" at the top right of this page. You'll then be able to keep track of hidden changes by executables that you won't be aware of otherwise.
Many IT professionals use SpyShelter to keep track of changes to their PCs and servers, and to stop threats before they can launch.
Below are 4 simple steps you can take to see if the olk.exe process is safe or malware.
Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs
A Trojan is a harmful software that pretends to be a legitimate program or file to deceive users into downloading it. It can steal personal information, damage files, or give hackers control over the infected device.
Download SpyShelter to see detailed safety information about every .exe on your PC.
Check your PC for threatsWe’ve found Microsoft Corporation should be the publisher of olk.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.
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.
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.
Have any questions? Please join our free public SpyShelter PC Security Forum and talk cybersecurity with our USA-based team. We love talking about PC Security and we’d like to get to know you.
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