What is spoolsv.exe? Should I remove it?

Spoolsv.exe is a legitimate Windows file which might cause problems

Spoolsv.exe is a legitimate executable used by Windows Operating System to handle printing or faxing procedures. Alternatively, it can appear as Spooler SubSystem App or Print Spooler in the Task Manager.The original Spoolsv.exe is located in C:\Windows\System32 folder and the file size varies between 57,856 bytes and 58,880 bytes. It is used by Windows 10/8/7/XP and is not visible to users. 

SubSystem App is started as soon as you reboot your computer and used for handling printing and fax jobs, such as transferring data in the buffer or queuing printing tasks. If the printer is not responsive or busy at the time, Spoolsv.exe will queue up all the tasks and store them in its cache.

Just like many other Windows files, Spoolsv.exe can be disabled. However, this will result in a complete inability to print documents. Thus, disabling this application is not recommended. 

Spoolsv.exe typically does not consume a lot of CPU resources. However, a high CPU consumption might indicate a problem somewhere in the Windows printing system, corrupt drivers or incorrectly configured printer.

Spoolsv.exe is an executable file used by Windows. However, users should be aware that cybercrooks might disguise viruses under the same name. The first warning sign should be if the file is situated in one of these locations:

• Subfolder of the user's profile folder;
• Subfolder of C:\;
• Subfolder of C:\Windows\System32;
• C:\Windows folde;r
• Subfolder of C:\Program Files;
• C:\Windows\System32\drivers folder;

Cybercriminals create trojans, worms and other viruses and disguise them under legitimate file name, such as Spoolsv.exe. In some cases, the executable might replace the real file, too.

These type of viruses are capable of many malicious acts, such as monitoring user's activity (including recording keystrokes of the keyboard), corrupting operation of legitimate programs, slowing down computer operation of even corrupting hardware. 

Therefore, if you noticed that Spoolsv.exe is not located in C:\Windows\System32 folder, it is time to scan your computer with FortectIntego and check for infections.

The way dangerous viruses are distributed

Trojans and worms are typically delivered via contaminated file attachments in spam emails. These files usually ask to enable the macro function to execute the malicious payload. Thus, users should learn how to spot a phishing email and to never open its attachments.

Users can also infect their machines by visiting file sharing or torrent websites. These third-party sites are poorly monitored, and some installers might be easily injected with malicious code.

It is important not to click on the content users can sometimes get redirected to. Suspicious ads should be closed immediately. If the browser is constantly spammed with ads – it might be a sign of an adware presence, which could be eliminated manually or using robust security software.

Finally, users should invest in a powerful anti-malware program that can protect them from unwanted applications and dangerous viruses.

Fix Spoolsv related errors

Scan your PC in Safe Mode

As we already mentioned, if you are having problems with Spoolsv.exe you should first make sure it is not malware causing and scan your machine with a security tool. If your computer is infected with malware, it is entirely possible that it will prevent security software to start properly. Hence, you should reboot your PC in Safe Mode with Networking and start the program from there:

1. Click on Start and then Shutdown
2. Press Restart and then click OK
3. As soon as your PC starts booting, press F8 several times until you see the Advanced Boot Options menu
4. Select Safe Mode with Networking

Delete print jobs

If Spoolsv.exe uses a lot of CPU resources even when its idle, follow these steps:

1. Click Start > Settings > Control Panel
2. Enter Administrative Tools and then select Services
3. On the right pane, find Print Spooler and press Stop
4. Navigate to the following folder: c:\windows\system32\spool\PRINTERS
5. Delete all the .SPL and .SHD files
6. Go back to Services, right-click on Print-Spooler and then press Start

Re-install your printer drivers

If the drivers for your printer are corrupt, you should reinstall them.

1. Click Start, right-click on Computer and select Properties
2. Select Device Manager
3. Find your printer under Universal Serial Bus Controller or Other devices
4. Expand the pane, right-click on the selected printer and press Uninstall
5. After uninstall is complete, right-click on the same printer and select Update Driver Software
6. Then, pick Search automatically for updated driver software
7. Restart your PC