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

google_osconfig_agent.exe is a background service for the Google Cloud OS Config agent. It is used to manage and configure virtual machine instances running on Google Cloud Platform. This tool automates tasks like patching, software installation, and system policy enforcement to ensure the environment stays consistent.

You have this file because the computer or virtual machine you are using is part of a Google Cloud project or has Google Cloud management tools installed. It works by communicating with the Google Cloud console to check for updates and apply specific settings defined by an administrator.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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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.

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More about google_osconfig_agent.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes google_osconfig_agent.exe?

We’ve found Google LLC should be the publisher of google_osconfig_agent.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: January 24, 2026

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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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