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What’s hhupd.exe (Microsoft® HTML Help Control)? Is it safe or a virus?

The file hhupd.exe, developed by Microsoft Corporation, is associated with the "Microsoft® HTML Help Control," a system component that enables the display of HTML-based help files (CHM format) in Windows. It is used to manage and update the HTML Help system, ensuring compatibility and functionality for applications that rely on this format for their help documentation. The executable often works as an installer or updater for the HTML Help component, enhancing its stability and addressing potential security vulnerabilities. It plays a key role in maintaining seamless integration of help systems in various Windows-based applications.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about hhupd.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes hhupd.exe (Microsoft® HTML Help Control)?

We’ve found Microsoft Corporation should be the publisher of hhupd.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: July 29, 2025

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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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