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Control your PC apps and their behaviors.What’s that .exe?
Is that executable safe, or a threat?SpyShelter PC Protection
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Learn how to prevent unauthorized Screenshots.Executable Directory
Our ultimate directory of Windows PC executables.The file check_hwid.exe, publisher listed as ASUSTeK Computer Inc., is a legitimate component bundled with ASUS hardware-support software (for example the ASUS Smart Gesture utility) on systems using ASUS motherboards.
You might see it because you have an ASUS-branded system or motherboard running ASUS utilities/drivers, and this executable helps verify or register hardware/driver components (HWID = hardware ID) to ensure proper driver installation and compatibility.
Below are 4 simple steps you can take to see if the check_hwid.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.
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Recently Viewed Executables We’ve found ASUSTeK Computer Inc. should be the publisher of check_hwid.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.
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