Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Typically located in C:\Apache24\bin\httpd.exe or C:\Program Files\Apache24\bin\httpd.exe
Warning
Multiple processes normal under load
Apache uses a parent process plus multiple worker processes; high process counts can occur with traffic or misconfiguration
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Stop the Apache24 service via Services.msc or net stop Apache24; disable startup if needed
What is httpd.exe?
apache24.exe is the Windows executable for the Apache HTTP Server (Apache24). It accepts incoming HTTP requests and delegates work to worker processes or threads, enabling hosting of websites and apps on Windows.
Apache24 uses an MPM (Multi-Processing Module) strategy to manage concurrency, spawning child processes or threads. This design isolates requests for stability and security, while modules extend functionality.
Quick Fact: Apache's modular architecture lets you enable or disable features at runtime via httpd.conf and loaded modules.
Types of Apache Processes
- Parent Process (httpd.exe): Main process that manages workers and handles configuration.
- Worker/Child Processes: Multiple processes handling client requests concurrently.
- MPM Instance: The active Multi-Processing Module model (prefork, worker, event).
- Module Loader: Dynamically loaded modules like mod_ssl, mod_rewrite.
- Logging/Health Monitor: Background tasks for logging and health checks.
Is apache24.exe Safe?
Yes, apache24.exe is safe when it comes from The Apache Software Foundation and is installed from official packages.
Is apache24.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real apache24.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can masquerade under similar names.
How to Tell if apache24.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Should be in C:\Apache24\bin\httpd.exe or C:\Program Files\Apache24\bin\httpd.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Windows Explorer -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show 'The Apache Software Foundation'.
- Resource Usage: Typical Apache usage is modest. Sudden, constant high CPU or memory with no traffic is suspicious.
- Behavior: Apache should run as a Windows service and only when web traffic is present. Persistent background spikes without requests warrant investigation.
Red Flags: If apache24.exe is found outside the C:\Apache24 or C:\Program Files\Apache24 paths, lacks a valid signature, or is constantly using CPU with no web traffic, scan for malware.
Why Is apache24.exe Running on My PC?
The Apache HTTP Server is designed to be ready to serve requests for configured hosts. It may run as a Windows service and respond to client requests, health checks, or scheduled tasks.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Web Server: The service is started to serve configured websites or apps, accepting incoming HTTP connections.
- Background Modules: Modules like mod_ssl, mod_rewrite, or PHP connectors may keep the process engaged.
- Auto-Start Service: The Apache24 service is configured to start automatically on system boot.
- Virtual Hosts: Multiple virtual hosts require Apache to run to dispatch requests to correct sites.
- Health Checks and Monitoring: Monitoring tools or load balancers ping the server, keeping it active for availability checks.
Can I Disable or Remove apache24.exe?
Yes, you can disable apache24.exe. Stopping the service is safe for maintenance, and you can remove the package if you no longer need the server.
How to Stop apache24.exe
- Stop the Service: Open Services (services.msc), locate Apache24, and click Stop.
- Disable Startup: In Services, set Startup type to Disabled to prevent auto-start.
- Stop via Command: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: net stop Apache24
- Prevent Auto-Start: Remove the service registration if needed: sc delete Apache24
- Check for Running Instances: In Task Manager, verify no httpd.exe remains running.
How to Uninstall Apache
- ✔ Run the installer again and choose Uninstall, or manually delete C:\Apache24 after stopping the service and removing the service entry.
- ✔ Remove environment PATH references to Apache24 if added.
- ✔ Reboot the system.
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
Apache24 can consume more resources under load or misconfiguration. Here are common scenarios and practical fixes.
Common Causes & Solutions
- High traffic with many connections: Increase StartServers/MaxRequestWorkers (MPM settings) and consider enabling KeepAlive.
- Misconfigured MPM (prefork vs worker vs event): Choose appropriate MPM and tune Min/MaxSpareThreads, ServerLimit, and ThreadLimit.
- Resource-heavy modules: Disable unused modules (httpd.conf LoadModule lines) and review module usage.
- Large or many logs: Rotate logs and reduce LogLevel; consider using a dedicated logging sink.
- Abusive traffic or denial of service: Implement rate limiting with mod_evasive or mod_security and enable firewall rules.
- Outdated Apache version or modules: Update to latest 2.4.x release and rebuild modules to match.
Quick Fixes:
1. Identify resource hogs with server-status or monitoring tools.
2. Reduce idle worker count and enable KeepAlive wisely.
3. Disable unnecessary modules in httpd.conf.
4. Restart Apache to apply changes.
5. Update to the latest Apache 2.4.x release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is apache24.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate apache24.exe from The Apache Software Foundation is not a virus. It should reside in C:\Apache24\bin\httpd.exe or C:\Program Files\Apache24\bin\httpd.exe and have a valid signature.
Why does Apache show many processes?
Apache uses a multi-process/multi-thread model. Depending on the MPM (prefork, worker, event), there may be a parent process and multiple child workers handling requests.
Can I delete apache24.exe?
Yes, if you no longer need the server, uninstall via the installer or remove C:\Apache24 after stopping the service and removing the service entry.
Can I disable apache24.exe?
Yes. Stop the service via Services.msc or net stop Apache24, and set the startup type to Disabled to prevent auto-start.
Why does Apache start at boot?
Apache24 is commonly installed as a Windows service configured to start automatically on system boot to serve websites without manual intervention.
How can I check the Apache version?
Run C:\Apache24\bin\httpd.exe -v or navigate to the installation directory and execute httpd -v to display the version and build information.