Is it a Virus?
NO - Safe
Must be located in C:\Program Files\Bomgar\Session Manager or C:\Program Files (x86)\Bomgar\Session Manager and digitally signed by BeyondTrust/Bomgar.
Warning
Multiple processes may run during a live session
Bomgar creates helper processes per active session; ensure the path and signature match.
Can I Disable?
YES
You can disable startup and end sessions to reduce background activity; see can_disable section.
What is bomgar-session-helper.exe?
bomgar-session-helper.exe is a lightweight helper component used by the Bomgar remote-support client to coordinate secure, real-time assistance sessions. It runs on the end-user machine to manage session handshakes, allow technician control, and enable file transfer and chat as part of a guided support session.
This process launches when a remote session begins, establishing a TLS-encrypted channel to the technician console and handling session events. It runs with minimal privileges and exits when the session ends to keep system impact low.
Quick Fact: Bomgar’s session helper is designed to minimize footprint while providing secure, bidirectional communication during a support session.
Types of Bomgar Processes
- Session Manager: Main Bomgar client UI and session orchestration
- Connection Handler: Establishes the encrypted channel to the technician console
- File Transfer Service: Manages secure file exchange during a session
- Chat and Screen Share Service: Enables in-session chat and screen sharing
- Background Updater: Checks for and applies updates in the background
- Health Monitor: Monitors session health and network connectivity
Is bomgar-session-helper Safe?
Yes, bomgar-session-helper.exe is safe when obtained from official BeyondTrust/Bomgar sources and installed as part of the Bomgar client.
Is bomgar-session-helper.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real bomgar-session-helper.exe is NOT a virus. Malware can imitate names; always confirm the file path and signature.
How to Tell if bomgar-session-helper.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location:: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Bomgar\Session Manager\bomgar-session-helper.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Bomgar\Session Manager\bomgar-session-helper.exe. Other locations are suspicious.
- Digital Signature:: Right-click the file in Explorer > Properties > Digital Signatures. Should show a signature from BeyondTrust or Bomgar Corporation.
- Resource Usage:: Normal usage is 1-6% CPU and 25-80 MB RAM during an active session; persistent high usage when idle is suspicious.
- Behavior:: Should run only during an active session or when awaiting an invitation. It should not reach out to unknown hosts or run continuously without reason.
Red Flags: If bomgar-session-helper.exe is located outside the Bomgar folder (for example in Temp or AppData), runs without a session, has no valid signature, or uses resources constantly, scan your system with your security suite. Look for similarly named files like "bomgar-session-helper.dll" from untrusted sources.
Why Is bomgar-session-helper Running on My PC?
Bomgar-session-helper runs to coordinate secure remote support sessions. It may start when a session is scheduled, a technician connects, or the client is waiting for an invitation. It also helps maintain the connection and enable essential session features.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Remote Session: A live Bomgar session is underway; the helper manages commands, screen share, and file transfers.
- Background Connectivity: The helper maintains a heartbeat and keeps the secure channel open for the duration of the session.
- Session Invitations: When a session invitation is pending, the helper prepares to establish the connection quickly.
- Automatic Reconnect: If the network flaps, the helper may re-establish the secure channel to preserve session continuity.
- Update and Integrity Checks: The client may run the helper to apply updates or verify session-related components during connectivity checks.
Can I Disable or Remove bomgar-session-helper?
Yes, you can disable bomgar-session-helper. It's safe to close sessions when not in use, and you can uninstall or suppress startup behavior if you no longer need remote support.
How to Stop bomgar-session-helper
- End Active Session: In the Bomgar Console, end the current session or disconnect.
- End the Helper Process: Open Task Manager, locate bomgar-session-helper.exe, right-click > End Task.
- Disable Startup: Task Manager > Startup tab > Disable Bomgar Session Manager.
- Stop Background Activity: Bomgar Client Settings > General > Disable "Continue running in background after session ends".
- Uninstall or Reconfigure: Windows Settings > Apps > Bomgar Session Manager > Uninstall. Reinstall only if you need remote support.
How to Uninstall Bomgar Session Manager
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Bomgar Session Manager → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Bomgar Session Manager → Uninstall
- ✔ Follow prompts to remove all Bomgar components; restart afterward
Common Problems: Remote Session Issues with Bomgar Session Helper
If bomgar-session-helper.exe misbehaves or fails to connect, try the following common causes and solutions.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Firewall or proxy blocks the connection: Open required ports (typically 443 for TLS) to Bomgar servers and ensure the vendor's domains are whitelisted.
- Outdated Bomgar client: Update to the latest Bomgar version from the official source to fix known issues.
- Incorrect system time: Sync system clock with an NTP source to prevent TLS handshake failures.
- Corrupted installation: Reinstall Bomgar Session Manager from the official installer and verify digital signatures.
- Conflicting security software: Temporarily whitelist bomgar-session-helper.exe and related components in antivirus/EDR settings.
- High resource usage during session: Close unused tabs or reduce session resolution/feature usage; consider enabling performance optimizations in the Bomgar client.
Quick Fixes:
1. Quick Fixes:
2. 1. Ensure you are connected to the internet and the Bomgar console is reachable
3. Restart the Bomgar client and rejoin the session
4. Update to the latest Bomgar release from the vendor
5. Whitelist bomgar-session-helper.exe in security software
6. If problems persist, reinstall Bomgar Session Manager
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bomgar-session-helper safe?
Yes. The bomgar-session-helper.exe is a legitimate component of the Bomgar remote-support client. It should reside in the official Bomgar installation folder and be digitally signed by BeyondTrust/Bomgar.
Why is bomgar-session-helper running on my PC?
It runs to coordinate active or pending remote support sessions. It may start when a technician connects, a session invitation is issued, or to maintain the session heartbeat.
Can I disable bomgar-session-helper?
Yes. You can end sessions, disable startup in Task Manager, or uninstall Bomgar Session Manager if you no longer need remote support.
How do I uninstall Bomgar Session Manager?
Use Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Bomgar Session Manager → Uninstall, or Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Bomgar Session Manager, then restart the machine.
Can bomgar-session-helper access my screen or files?
During an active session, the technician may view your screen or transfer files as part of remote support. The helper itself coordinates those actions and does not access data outside an active session.
What ports does Bomgar use and how can I configure them?
Bomgar typically uses TLS over port 443 to communicate with the technician console. If your network requires it, ensure outbound connections to Bomgar domains on 443 are allowed and consider a proxy exception if used.