What is ntvdm.exe? Should I remove it?

Get to know Ntvdm.exe file running on your computer

Ntvdm.exe is a legitimate system process, which belongs to the Microsoft Windows Operating System. This process can also be called as Windows NT DOS Virtual Machine because it's used to handle a single DOS environment. Typically, it starts when you start a 16-bit program on your computer and remains in its memory after you quit this program in case you start another 16-bit program in the future.

Name Ntvdm.exe
Type System files
Related to Windows NT DOS Virtual Machine
Distribution Installed with Windows, but if malicious might come during insecure freeware installations 
Danger level This common file might be misused by malware
Elimination Use FortectIntego for the file removal, if needed

Just like many other legitimate processes, ntvdm is located in the folder C:\Windows\System32. According to experts, it is a core system file, which, once executed, might take a lot of CPU power to run. We do not recommend terminating this process because ntvdm.exe is essential for normal PC's functionality.

However, if you feel that this process causes you a lot of problems such as system slowdowns, you might need to check your computer system automatically to see if Ntvdm.exe running on your system is actually a legitimate file or just a virus using a name of a legitimate Windows program. To check the origins of Ntvdm, consider running a system scan using software like FortectIntego.

NTVDM is just part of all IA-32 editions of Windows NT – if you're lucky

Just like we explained before, Ntvdm.exe is considered to be part of all 32-bit versions of Windows NT systems. In case you noticed strange behavior of the file, it might be a sign of a fake or corrupted version of this file. In such situation, a thorough system scan is required to identify the problem. 

Users have reported several issues regarding this process. The most frequent one is related to the following message on user's computer:

NTVDM.EXE has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience.

The most common “cure” for this issue is uninstalling KB2707511 and KB2709162 updates. Users of Windows XP OS can get rid of those updates via Add/Remove Programs panel. However, “Show updates” option must be enabled in order to see and uninstall unwanted updates.

Besides, optimizing your system might help to resolve issues related to Ntvdm.exe. For example, FortectIntego software can help to replace corrupted or missing Windows system files to keep the computer at its peak performance. Therefore, if you have been experiencing problems with Ntvdm, we highly recommend using this program as it takes less time to identify the issue and resolve it.

Check if Ntvdm.exe removal is necessary

Users who have been experiencing problems with high CPU levels can remove Ntvdm.exe issue by uninstalling troublesome updates from Windows OS. Typically, it is all that it takes to resolve the issue and continue using the computer without any problems again. However, high CPU might not necessarily be a problem caused by the legitimate version of this executive file.

Keep in mind that some viruses use randomly named processes to implement suspicious activities on victims' computers. Pay attention to ntvdm file's location and check your computer with reputable anti-spyware if you think this process could be related to malware or other cyber threats. In case you suspect the presence of a virus, use a trustworthy anti-malware software for Ntvdm.exe removal.

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What to do if failed?
If you failed to fix virus damage using Fortect Intego, submit a question to our support team and provide as much details as possible.
Fortect Intego has a free limited scanner. Fortect Intego offers more through scan when you purchase its full version. When free scanner detects issues, you can fix them using free manual repairs or you can decide to purchase the full version in order to fix them automatically.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Fortect, try running SpyHunter 5.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Intego, try running Combo Cleaner.
About the author
Lucia Danes
Lucia Danes - Virus researcher

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