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What’s iisreset.exe (IIS control command line utility)? Is it safe or a virus?

The `iisreset.exe` utility in Microsoft Windows is a command-line tool used to manage the Internet Information Services (IIS) web server.

It allows administrators to start, stop, or restart the IIS service and associated processes. Typically, it is used to refresh the server state, resolve service-related issues, or apply configuration changes that require a restart.

By running this command, all active connections to the web server are terminated, and it reinitializes the services, which can disrupt active user sessions. It is often used in maintenance scenarios but should be employed cautiously to avoid unintentional service disruptions.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about iisreset.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes iisreset.exe (IIS control command line utility)?

We’ve found Microsoft Windows should be the publisher of iisreset.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: April 23, 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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