AMD Telemetry Service
amd_telemetry.exe is part of AMD's Telemetry framework that runs in the background to collect performance metrics, crash reports, and health data from AMD graphics drivers. It helps AMD diagnose issues, optimize updates, and improve game and app compatibility. It is bundled with Radeon Software and is usually launched at startup.
The executable gathers telemetry via a secure channel to the AMD software services, logging GPU load, temperature, driver versions, and crash data. It runs under the AMD telemetry service and uses local storage for staging before reporting to AMD servers, and it can be managed through Radeon Software settings.
AMD's Telemetry component is a legitimate part of the Radeon Software suite designed to collect performance metrics, crash data, and health signals to help improve driver stability and user experience. When installed from the official AMD Radeon Software installer, amd_telemetry.exe is digitally signed, scanned by Windows Defender, and executes under trusted system permissions. If you notice the file in a standard AMD directory and with a valid signature, it is typically safe and expected on most modern systems.
In a typical AMD installation, amd_telemetry.exe is not a virus. However, any legitimate file can be spoofed by malware, so it is important to verify the file's location, digital signature, and hash. If the executable is found outside of the official AMD directories or lacks a valid signature, it could indicate malware masquerading as telemetry. Use signature verification and vendor-signed installers to confirm legitimacy.
Red Flags: If amd_telemetry.exe is located in user Temp folders, Downloads, or a non-AMD directory, or lacks a valid signature, treat as suspicious and investigate with malware tools.
Reasons it's running:
Yes. amd_telemetry.exe can be disabled or limited without breaking basic GPU operation, though some AMD features may rely on telemetry for optimal updates. Disable via Radeon Software settings > Settings > Privacy or by turning off telemetry options, or through Windows Services (services.msc) by stopping and setting amd_telemetry service to manual/disabled. A system restart may be required.
It is part of AMD's Telemetry framework that collects performance and health data to improve driver stability and feature quality.
For most users, yes. It is digitally signed by AMD and serves diagnostic purposes; disable only if you prefer not to share telemetry.
Disable via Radeon Software privacy settings or use Windows Services to stop the service; a restart may be required.
If telemetry is active, it may use a small portion of CPU, but AMD designs it to minimize impact; disabling can free resources in rare cases.
Typically under C:\Program Files\AMD\CNext\Telemetry or C:\Program Files\AMD\Radeon Software\Telemetry; verify the path matches your installation.
Check the digital signature, path, and hash; run malware scans and compare with official AMD installers to rule out impersonation.