What is AdvancedRenamer.exe?
advanced-renamer.exe is the executable for the Advanced Renamer utility, a Windows-based batch renaming tool that applies rule-based patterns to large sets of files. It supports multiple rename methods, placeholders, and undo functionality.
The program reads a list of files, applies user-defined renaming rules (patterns, counters, date stamps, extensions), and writes new names in a single batch, using a lightweight engine and multi-threading where supported.
Quick Fact: Advanced Renamer has been a staple for automating file organization, offering extensive rule templates and batch processing capabilities.
Types of Advanced Renamer Processes
- Main GUI Process: User interface and rule editor (1 instance)
- Renaming Engine Worker: Applies rename rules to queues of files (multi-threaded)
- Background Update Checker: Checks for software updates and config refresh
- Rule Library Loader: Loads and caches rename rule templates
- Logging/Audit Process: Records rename operations and outcomes
- Helper/Context Menu Handler: Integrates with Explorer for quick renames
Is advanced-renamer.exe Safe?
Yes, advanced-renamer.exe is safe when downloaded from the official source and located in the proper folders (e.g., C:\Program Files\Advanced Renamer).
Is advanced-renamer.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real advanced-renamer.exe is NOT a virus. Malware sometimes uses similar names to trick users.
How to Tell if advanced-renamer.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\Advanced Renamer\AdvancedRenamer.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Advanced Renamer\AdvancedRenamer.exe. Any other location is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the file path (C:\Program Files\Advanced Renamer\AdvancedRenamer.exe) → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show a legitimate publisher for Advanced Renamer.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is low when idle (1-5% CPU, 20-120 MB memory). Abnormal spikes warrant malware scan.
- Behavior: Advanced Renamer should only run when you start the app. Unrecognized background activity or startup entries warrant further inspection.
Red Flags: If advanced-renamer.exe appears outside C:\Program Files\Advanced Renamer or C:\Program Files (x86)\Advanced Renamer, lacks a valid signature, or runs without user initiation, scan your system with antivirus software immediately.
Why Is advanced-renamer.exe Running on My PC?
advanced-renamer.exe runs when you are performing batch renaming tasks, enabling rule-based processing and optional folder watching.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Rename Job: You have a queued or active renaming operation; the engine processes files per the defined rules.
- Folder Watching Enabled: If you configured folder monitoring, the app will run to apply rename rules automatically on changes.
- Scheduled Renaming: Renaming tasks can be scheduled; the process runs at the scheduled time.
- Background Rule Processing: The rule engine runs in the background to prepare outputs or generate previews.
- Explorer Context Menu Integration: If installed with shell integration, invoking rename actions from Explorer may trigger the process.
Can I Disable or Remove advanced-renamer.exe?
Yes, you can disable advanced-renamer.exe. You can close the application when not in use and uninstall Advanced Renamer if you no longer need it.
How to Stop advanced-renamer.exe
- End Active Jobs: In the GUI, cancel current renaming tasks and close the app
- Close Application: Use the X button or File → Exit
- Prevent Startup: Disable startup entry in Windows Task Manager → Startup
- Disable Context Menu: Uncheck Explorer integration in the Advanced Renamer settings
- Stop Background Checks: Within settings, turn off automatic update checks
How to Uninstall Advanced Renamer
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Advanced Renamer → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Advanced Renamer → Uninstall
- ✔ Consider alternatives: Windows File Explorer renaming, or another renaming tool
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If advanced-renamer.exe is consuming excessive resources during batch renaming:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Large rename queue: Split the operation into smaller batches or increase system memory to handle larger queues.
- Complex rename rules: Simplify rules or test them with Preview before applying; avoid overly nested patterns.
- Watching too many folders: Disable or limit folder watching; configure specific folders for renaming tasks only.
- Outdated software: Update to the latest version from the official site.
- Background indexing: Pause or disable background indexing services while renaming large datasets.
- Antivirus interference: Add Advanced Renamer to the exception list to reduce scanning overhead during renaming.
Quick Fixes:
1. Open Advanced Renamer and review the current queue in the GUI
2. Split the batch rename into smaller groups
3. Test rules on a sample set with Preview before applying
4. Update to the latest version
5. Ensure the app is excluded from real-time antivirus scanning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is advanced-renamer.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate advanced-renamer.exe from the official site is safe. Verify the file path is C:\Program Files\Advanced Renamer\AdvancedRenamer.exe and that it is digitally signed by the developer.
Where is advanced-renamer.exe located on Windows?
Typical installation paths are C:\Program Files\Advanced Renamer\AdvancedRenamer.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Advanced Renamer\AdvancedRenamer.exe. Use Task Manager to verify it's running only when you launch the app.
How do I configure renaming rules in Advanced Renamer?
Open the program, go to the Rule Editor, and add rules such as NewName, Date, Counter, or Replace. Combine rules using the In/Out placeholders and test with Preview before applying.
Can Advanced Renamer rename files in subfolders?
Yes. The software supports recursive renaming for files in subfolders, and you can apply rules selectively via the folder tree in the queue.
How do I uninstall Advanced Renamer?
Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Advanced Renamer → Uninstall. You may also uninstall from Control Panel → Programs. Reinstall if needed.
Does Advanced Renamer support Unicode filenames?
Yes. Advanced Renamer supports Unicode characters and preserves non-ASCII names during batch renaming.