What is settings.ini? Should I remove it?

Settings.ini — a file which is related to the Windows operating system

Settings.ini is a system file which is used for the configuration for software or specific platforms. According to the analysis, this file is related to the Windows operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation. Even though this simple text file is not harmful to your computer, some experts recommend being cautious if you detect suspicious activity on your PC.

The purpose of a legitimate Settings.ini is to configure Windows operating system and other applications which are installed on your computer. Additionally, this file is used to arrange the following:

• Fonts;
• Device drivers;
• Startup launchers.

People usually wonder is Settings.ini safe — experts say it cannot harm your computer if the file is legitimate and used for the purposes mentioned above. Typically, .INI file^[1] appears as a basic text file which should not put your computer's security at risk. It consists of values, properties, and sections.

However, if you notice a suspicious file or process running in the Task Manager with the similar or same name which performs an unauthorized activity, immediately get a professional security software and let it complete Settings.ini removal if necessary. 

Keep in mind that experts warn about Settings.ini virus which is a term used to describe obfuscated malicious software. Even though the completed analysis of this configuration file is not completed just yet, there is a substantial risk that the counterfeit file might be designed to infiltrate your system with the following cyber threats:

• Banking Trojans^[2];
• Malware;
• Ransomware;
• Spyware.

Thus, if you have any suspicions and notice irregular computer activity, remove Settings.ini before it damaged your system. For that, get help from a professional or employ reliable and robust security tools. You can find the best one on the list at the end of this article.

Potentially dangerous files might travel in software-bundles 

Since legitimate Windows OS files are automatically installed on your system, cybercriminals try to develop deceptive techniques and employ social engineering tactics to stealthily infiltrate cyber threats disguising under the same name on your system without notice.

Likewise, one of the most common and widely employed tactic is known as bundling. It allows the developers of malicious programs to install unreliable software and suspicious files on the targeted system during the installation of basic free programs as PDF converters. 

Once an inexperienced computer user does not pay attention to the installation of third-party software and accept Quick/Recommended settings, it unknowingly infiltrates the system with a potentially unwanted program (PUP). Although, it can be avoided if the user changes the parameters of the installation wizard to Custom/Advanced and de-selects additional components. 

Ways to remove Settings.ini file

BedyNet.ru^[3] experts do not recommend you to remove Settings.ini if it is completely legitimate and safe. You can check whether it poses a threat to your system by employing a professional malware removal application. Simply download it from official distributors and run a full system scan.

If Settings.ini removal is necessary, the antivirus will eliminate it from your system automatically. Our professionals strongly recommend relying only on tested software, like FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, or Malwarebytes. Otherwise, you might get into the trap of online scammers who are eager to promote ineffective and expensive applications.