clion64.exe

What is clion64.exe?

clion64.exe is the Windows launcher for JetBrains CLion, the C/C++ IDE. CLion uses a multi-process architecture where UI, indexing, code analysis, and toolchain tasks run in separate processes to keep the editor responsive during heavy work like large codebases and builds.

CLion's architecture splits core UI, indexing, and analysis into distinct processes, enabling parallel tasks and smoother UX during long builds and real-time inspections.

Types of CLion Processes

• Main Process: Launches the IDE window and coordinates core features
• Indexer Process: Background code indexing for fast navigation and search
• Compiler/Build Runner: Handles CMake tasks and toolchain invocations
• Code Analysis Process: On-the-fly inspections and analysis
• Plugin Process: Isolates plugins to protect stability
• Update/Telemetry Service: Background update checks and telemetry data (opt-in)

Is clion64.exe Safe?

Yes, clion64.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from JetBrains downloaded from official sources (jetbrains.com or via JetBrains Toolbox).

Is clion64.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real clion64.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can disguise itself with similar names to trick users.

How to Tell if clion64.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\JetBrains\CLion 2024.3\bin\clion64.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\JetBrains\CLion 2024.3\bin\clion64.exe. Any clion64.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file > Properties > Digital Signatures. Should show "JetBrains s.r.o.".
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is 2-15% CPU per process during editing, 100-500 MB total memory. Extremely high usage when CLion is not running is suspicious.
4. Behavior: CLion should only run when you start the IDE. Multiple background processes when CLion isn't open indicates a potential issue.

Why Is clion64.exe Running on My PC?

clion64.exe runs when you start JetBrains CLion or when JetBrains Toolbox is configured to launch CLion in the background. It may also keep certain services alive to support indexing, builds, and live code analysis.

Reasons it's running:

• Active IDE Use: You have CLion open; the IDE runs multiple processes for the editor, indexing, and build tasks to support editing and navigation.
• Background Indexing: CLion indexes the project in the background to speed up search, navigation, and code completion.
• Automatic Startup: JetBrains Toolbox or Windows startup entries may launch CLion automatically at login.
• Toolchains and Build Services: CMake, compiler, and debugger processes run to configure, build, and run code, often staying resident for faster subsequent builds.
• Update and Telemetry: The IDE may run background checks for updates and collect optional telemetry data to improve features.

Can I Disable or Remove clion64.exe?

Yes, you can disable clion64.exe. It's safe to close CLion when not in use, and you can uninstall CLion completely if you no longer need it.

How to Stop clion64.exe

• Close CLion: Exit CLion completely (File > Exit or Close all windows).
• Disable Startup: If you use JetBrains Toolbox or Windows Startup, disable CLion from the Startup items.
• Pause Background Tasks: In CLion, disable or adjust background tasks (e.g., indexing or update checks) via Settings/Preferences.
• Stop Toolbox Auto-Launch: In JetBrains Toolbox, turn off automatic startup of CLion.
• Prevent Reinstatement: Delete or quarantine the CLion launcher if you do not want it reappearing after software updates.

How to Uninstall CLion

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → CLion → Uninstall
• ✔ JetBrains Toolbox → Settings → Uninstall CLion from Toolbox (if installed via Toolbox)
• ✔ Consider alternative IDEs: Visual Studio Code, CLion with fewer resources

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If clion64.exe is consuming excessive resources:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Large project indexing: Wait for indexing to complete or mark large folders as Excluded in CLion (Settings > Project > Excluded).
• Resource-heavy plugins: Disable or remove unnecessary plugins via Settings > Plugins.
• Many open files or tabs: Close unused files and limit simultaneous editors; use File | Open Recent to switch quickly.
• Outdated CLion version: Update to the latest CLion version to receive performance fixes (Help > Check for Update).
• Insufficient JVM heap: Increase memory by editing clion64.vmoptions (e.g., -Xmx2g) and restart CLion.
• Background antivirus interference: Add CLion installation directory to antivirus exclusions to reduce scanning overhead.

Related Processes