box-sync.exe

What is box-sync.exe?

box-sync.exe is the executable for Box's Sync client. It maintains a local Box Sync folder on your PC and keeps it synchronized with your Box cloud account. The app runs in the background, detecting file changes and syncing uploads and downloads to ensure consistency across devices.

Box Sync uses a filesystem watcher to detect changes in the local Box folder and the cloud, queuing transfers and performing incremental sync. It resolves conflicts, respects selective sync, and uses HTTPS to securely transfer data.

Types of Box Sync Processes

• Core Sync Engine: Manages file change detection and coordination between local folder and Box cloud
• File System Watcher: Monitors the Box Sync folder for edits, additions, and deletions
• Network Uploader/Downloader: Transfers data to and from Box servers using HTTPS
• Background Service: Runs when the user is not actively interacting with the app to maintain sync
• Conflict Resolver: Handles conflicts when edits occur in parallel across devices
• Tray/UI Handler: Provides status in the system tray and shows sync notifications

Is box-sync.exe Safe?

Yes, box-sync.exe is safe when obtained from Box's official site or trusted distribution channels and located in the Box Sync installation directory.

Is box-sync.exe a Virus or Malware?

The legitimate box-sync.exe is not a virus. Malware may disguise as box-sync.exe; verify signature.

How to Tell if box-sync.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\Box\Box Sync\box-sync.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Box\Box Sync\box-sync.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Windows Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show 'Box, Inc.' as the signer.
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-10% CPU per process and 60-200 MB memory. Constant high usage when idle is suspicious.
4. Behavior: Box Sync should run as a background service or visible UI only when syncing. Persistent background activity when idle may indicate malware.

Why Is box-sync.exe Running on My PC?

box-sync.exe runs to keep your local Box Sync folder in sync with the cloud. It may run continuously in the background to catch local changes and cloud updates.

Reasons it's running:

• Active Synchronization: You are editing or adding files in the Box Sync folder; the app detects changes and uploads them to Box.
• Background Monitoring: The file watcher remains active to detect changes even when the main UI is hidden.
• Startup Launch: Box Sync is configured to start automatically when Windows starts, keeping cloud/desktop in sync from login.
• Cloud-to-Local Updates: Box servers push changes to your device; the client downloads updates to reflect edits made elsewhere.
• Conflict and Version Handling: The app may spawn extra processes to resolve conflicts or apply version history across devices.

Can I Disable or Remove box-sync.exe?

Yes, you can disable box-sync.exe. It's safe to stop Box Sync when not in use, and you can uninstall it completely if you prefer a different cloud storage client.

How to Stop box-sync.exe

• Quit from Tray: Right-click the Box Sync tray icon and choose Exit or Quit Box Sync.
• Close UI: Close all Box Sync windows to minimize background activity.
• End Process: Open Task Manager, find box-sync.exe, right-click End Task.
• Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Box Sync.
• Stop Background Apps: Box Sync settings → General → Disable 'Continue running background apps when Box Sync is closed' (if available).

How to Uninstall Box Sync

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Box Sync → Uninstall
• ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Box Sync → Uninstall
• ✔ Restart your computer after uninstall

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If box-sync.exe is consuming excessive resources:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Too many files or large libraries: Exclude non-essential folders from syncing or enable selective sync to reduce active sync scope.
• Background scanning of changes: Adjust Box Sync settings to reduce background activity or pause sync temporarily during heavy tasks.
• Conflicting edits or outdated cache: Clear cache or reset sync cache from Box Sync settings; resolve conflicts manually if needed.
• Outdated Box Sync version: Update Box Sync to the latest version from Box's official site or app store.
• Antivirus/firewall interference: Allow box-sync.exe through the firewall and antivirus; ensure network ports are not blocked.
• Insufficient disk space: Free up disk space or move the Box Sync folder to a larger drive.

Related Processes