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What’s setx.exe (Setx - Sets environment variables)? Is it safe or a virus?

Setx.exe is a command-line tool in Microsoft Windows that is used to set environment variables in the system or user environment. It allows users to modify the system or user environment variables permanently or temporarily.

By using setx, users can define new environment variables or modify existing ones, which can affect the behavior of various programs and processes on the system.

This tool is commonly used by system administrators and power users to manage and configure the environment variables on Windows systems. It provides a way to automate the process of setting environment variables, making it easier to customize and control the system environment.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about setx.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes setx.exe (Setx - Sets environment variables)?

We’ve found Microsoft Windows should be the publisher of setx.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: February 5, 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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