How to remove App Explorer

App Explorer – an application that comes as a pre-installed module on laptops from Lenovo

App Explorer is a legitimate application developed by SweetLabs and is often bundled on devices produced by major companies like Lenovo. Allegedly, the application is designed as an alternative to Microsoft's Web store, which helps users to browse, download and update various apps. Unfortunately, the developer of the program also produced Pokki and OpenCandy – tools that are considered to be potentially unwanted or even malicious by some anti-virus vendors. In fact, App Explorer might just fit into the same category of adware – intrusive delivery of commercial content, as well as slowdown in system performance. Some users reported that the app appeared out of nowhere on their PCs, meaning that it can be distributed with the help of deceptive marketing technique called software bundling. Fortunately, users can easily remove App Explorer in case they are having troubles with it.

Once App Explorer is installed on the PC, it launches the update service HostAppServiceUpdater.exe, along with its main executable HostAppService.exe which run in the background. The app also creates a scheduled task so that it is started with every system reboot.

While the application is approved by Lenovo, it does not mean that it is entirely safe to use and does not cause any problems to users. Multiple people complained about excessive CPU usage of the service spawned by Lenovo App Explorer. Some users said their CPU spiked to 60-80% usage, which is abnormal for typical apps running in the background.

Speaking of Lenovo, it is not the first time the company was delivering adware on users' devices. The recent scandal over Superfish adware that was pre-installed on users' laptops between 2014 and 2015 and exposed them to potential cyber attacks, compromising their safety. Lenovo settlement reached $7.3 million.^[1] Have Lenovo learned the lesson? Maybe, considering that App Explorer did not get any negative criticism from security researchers so far, and no anti-virus engines flag it as malicious currently.^[2]

However, users complaining about advertisement content, as well as abnormally high CPU usage when the app is running should warrant App Explorer removal. Because none of the security applications currently recognize the file, users can only uninstall the app via the Control Panel. We explain the procedure below. Also, we recommend using FortectIntego as a system maintenance tool that can clean the device and keep it running smoothly.

Beware of bundled software – it can install potentially dangerous programs on your system

While we cannot say that Lenovo app explorer is a virus, its distribution techniques definitely resemble. Many users complained about finding the application performing updates, even though they never initiated the download of software in the first place.^[3] This is typical for potentially unwanted programs, such as adware or browser hijackers.

This happens because users do not pay much attention to the installation procedure of new applications they acquire from the internet. Beware that all websites that distribute freeware or shareware bundle software – it is a way to monetize, and such sites would simply not exist otherwise.

Therefore, even if you accessed well-known sites like File Hippo or Download.com, pay close attention to the installation procedure. Check out the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service, not rush by clicking “Next” several times, and always opt for Advanced or Custom installation settings instead of Recommended/Quick mode.

Once you pick the former, you will be able to view all the optional components that are marked for the installation. Merely remove the tick marks and only leave the initial program you required.

Uninstall Lenovo App Explorer from your device if it is causing you troubles

The answer to the question “Should I uninstall Lenovo App Explorer?” highly depends on whether or not your system is experiencing any difficulties, and whether or not you are using it in the first place. Our recommendation would be to opt for App Explorer removal, as we do not see any use of such a program. If anything, using default Microsoft store should be sufficient. You can check our instructions below for complete termination procedure.

Nevertheless, you should not remove App Explorer if you think that it is beneficial to you. As of now, Lenovo completely approves of the app, and no security researchers came forward with negative comments.