What is uninst.exe? Should I remove it?

Uninst.exe is a software-related executable file that causes relatively few problems on Windows

Uninst.exe is an executable file[1] associated with SoundTap, Dell PC Fax by Tencent, NCH Software or Nero Burning Rom apps. The file is responsible for launching the software and executing the instructions required to run the app smoothly. The Uninst.exe is digitally signed by Verisign. Its original location is C:\Program Files and should not be changed. The standard size should not exceed 2,757,512 bytes, but the size differs in each Windows OS version.

Name Uninst.exe
File type Executable file
Related programs SoundTap, Dell PC Fax by Tencent, NCH Software, Nero Burning Rom
Location C:\Program Files
Average size 2,757,512 bytes
OS type Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, XP, Vista

This executable file is not included in Microsoft Windows package by default. It comes as a default component of software developed by Nero AG, Tencent or NCH. It is also known as SoundTap Streaming Audio Recorder, QQ or Uninstaller.

Although the file is relatively harmless and exhibits security rating of 20% danger, there are many threads on IT forums where people refer to this file as the Uninst.exe virus. The original file does not belong to the group of computer virus as it does not exhibit malicious traits what so ever. However, the file may be quite easily exploited by hackers to mine cryptocurrency[2] or perform other malicious activities on a target system.

High CPU usage by Uninst.exe file is one of the symptoms indicating that this executable may be hacked. Crypto-miner malware that might be spread via free apps, spam,[3] hacked websites, and other untrustworthy methods can hack legal processes to disguise their presence. Thus, unusual PC’s behavior and unusually high CPU and GPU resource usage require a full system scan with a professional anti-malware tool. We recommend using FortectIntego to check the system for Uninst.exe malware.

According to people’s reports, the error messages related to the Uninst.exe file are also quite common. Error messages reporting this file missing, damaged or faulty indicates the fact that there are some problems with the software, which is running it. To find out which program is running this file, go to Task Manager and open Details tab. Find the Uninst.exe file, right-click on it, and select Properties. You should see the name of the related program next to Description.

UNINST.EXE Application Error
UNINST.EXE is not a valid Win32 application
Cannot find UNINST.EXE
UNINST.EXE not found
UNINST.EXE is not running
UNINST.EXE failed

In this case, you should reinstall the malfunctioning application. Installing stand-alone .exe files is not recommended due to a high risk of malware infection.

In some rare cases, the uninst.exe executable file is associated with GPLYRA-UNINST.EXE or potentially unwanted programs like YTDownloader, VisualBee Toolbar, Bonanza Deals. Anyway, if you consider this file to be potentially dangerous because of unusual system’s performance and other signs referring to it, you should use a professional optimization utility, such as [d] and check the system with malware removal tool.

Distribution methods of malicious files

The original version of this executable file comes into the system by default alongside SoundTap, Dell PC Fax by Tencent, NCH Software or Nero Burning Rom apps. It is not activated via Window Startup. The legitimate file starts running when the related application is being launched.

However, pretend-to-be legit executable files that are, in fact, malware can be installed on the system in various ways, including but not limited to:

  • Freeware and shareware;
  • Hacked websites;
  • Malicious ads;
  • Spam email;
  • Illegal websites (porn, gambling and peer-to-peer sites in particular);
  • Fake software updates, etc.

Remove uninst.exe if it causes unusual system’s behavior

As we have already mentioned, the uninst.exe is not a virus or malware in its nature. However, it might be misused by malicious applications for shady activities. Therefore, if you noticed excessive CPU usage, slowdowns, misleading ads, web browser’s redirects, related error messages, and similar problems, run a scan with FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes to remove uninst.exe virus automatically.

LosVirus.es[4] experts claim that manual uninst.exe removal can be initiated by accessing the C:\Program Files folder. However, if this file is related to malware, the attempt to remove it may be blocked, or the file might be automatically recreated. 

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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
Jake Doevan
Jake Doevan - Computer technology expert

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