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What’s dotnet70desktop.exe (Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime - 7.0.0 (x86))? Is it safe or a virus?

The file `dotnet70desktop.exe` represents the installer for the .NET Desktop Runtime version 7.0.0 (x86). This component is part of Microsoft's .NET platform and is specifically designed to enable Windows-based desktop applications to run on systems using the x86 architecture. It provides the necessary runtime environment and libraries required for running applications built using .NET 7, such as those developed with Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) or Windows Forms (WinForms). Installing this runtime ensures compatibility and proper execution of applications targeting the .NET Desktop Runtime, but it is not required for platforms or programs that do not use this version and framework.

Below are 4 simple steps you can take to see if the dotnet70desktop.exe process is safe or malware.

  1. Scan the executable with Microsoft's built-in tech
  2. Find dotnet70desktop.exe's publisher
  3. Search the executable's hash with VirusTotal
  4. Monitor the executable's behavior

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 dotnet70desktop.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes dotnet70desktop.exe (Microsoft Windows Desktop Runtime - 7.0.0 (x86))?

We’ve found .NET should be the publisher of dotnet70desktop.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: October 23, 2025

Curious about other processes on your PC?
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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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