What is InstUp.exe? Should I remove it?

InstUp.exe is a legitimate file that belongs to Avast

InstUp.exe is a legitimate executable file that belongs to Avast Free Antivirus. It is a well-founded security software used to catch and remove malware (as well as prevent it from entering). The main executable is not a system file – it can be disabled without damaging the system. It is compatible with all Windows OS, and its size usually reaches 600,000 bytes.

Just like many other processes, the name of this one might also be used to spread computer viruses and malware. The obfuscated file helps to bypass computer’s security and run malicious tasks. The main difference between real and obfuscated InstUp.exe file is its location.

Originally, this file is located in C:\Program Files subfolder. However, sometimes it might be placed in Windows Temp sub-category. If you find this executable in other directories, such as C:\windows or C:\windows\system32, your computer might be infected with virus or malware. 

However, this file is associated with PCAntiMalware too. It is known as a potentially unwanted program (PUP). Thus, if you have installed it directly or it came bundled with freeware, you should uninstall it immediately. This cyber parasite might be responsible for spying on your activities online.

Users also reported several InstUp.exe processes running in the Task Manager. Although it may be an indication of malware infection, Avast acknowledged that incorrectly installed updates could initiate this behavior. In this case, users are recommended to run  AVG Clear tool to clear any bugs.

The original file is not a Windows system file and does not have a visible window. However, this executable might monitor applications. As we have mentioned, this file belongs to security software. Thus, monitoring is necessary in order to identify and block malicious programs. In this case, InstUp.exe removal is unnecessary. Removing the legitimate file might prevent security software from working properly.

Meanwhile, the obfuscated InstUp.exe might be responsible for starting a parasite or launching some of its components. Once executed, the file runs a process that is in charge of the malware payload. Cyber infections might cause serious problems, such as data encryption, lost sensitive information or identity theft. 

Therefore, if you haven’t installed Avast software and see this file installed on your PC, you should scan the computer with FortectIntego and make sure that it’s not infected with a virus. If this file is hazardous, security tool will remove InstUp.exe along with the detected cyber threat.

Malicious .exe files can get into your system in various ways

The original InstUp.exe shows up on the computer after the installation of Avast security software. However, you already know that this file might belong to various computer infections, such as Trojans or ransomware. These cyber infections spread and enter the system using multiple methods:

• malicious spam emails and their attachments;
• malvertising;
• bogus software updates and downloads;
• exploit kits.

In order to avoid infiltration of malicious files, you should not open suspicious email attachments. Keep in mind that safe looking Word or PDF documents might be camouflaged infections. Thus, before opening it or clicking on the provided link, you have to make sure that it’s a real issue.

Obfuscated InstUp.exe might be spread as a program or its update. Malicious programs are widely distributed via file-sharing sites and torrents. Thus, you should stay away from these sources and choose official publisher’s sites.

Staying away from ads in high-risk and popular websites are also recommended. Eye-catchy and aggressive ads often contain malicious content. Finally, keep your software updated and install antivirus software to protect your PC from various cyber threats.

Remove InstUp.exe if it is initiated by malware

If you are thinking about InstUp.exe removal, you have to make sure that this file is actually malicious. If you are in doubt, please scan the device with spyware remover or antivirus program. We suggest choosing FortectIntego for this task. However, your preferred professional tool should work as well.

The security program will identify if this file is malicious and offers to take further steps if necessary. If your computer is infected, you will need to remove InstUp.exe together with other related components. However, you should not worry about this task. Your chosen security tool will do this job for you.