Quick Answer
connectwise-control.exe is safe. It's the official ConnectWise Control client used for remote support sessions, screen sharing, and input in a controlled, authenticated environment.
What is connectwise-control.exe?
connectwise-control.exe is the main executable for the ConnectWise Control remote support client. It establishes secure connections to a technician's session, streams the host's screen, and forwards input events for remote control. Depending on configuration, it may run at startup or only during active sessions.
ConnectWise Control uses a lightweight agent that maintains a persistent TLS connection to its servers, negotiates session keys, and routes screen sharing, keystrokes, and clipboard data. It runs in a small set of threads to manage network I/O and UI rendering during sessions.
Quick Fact: ConnectWise Control supports unattended access and rapid remote support through a centralized broker and secure tunnels.
Types of ConnectWise Control Processes
- Connection/Client Process: Main client that handles session initiation and UI rendering (one or more instances during sessions)
- Streaming/Screen Share Process: Handles screen capture, video encoding, and remote viewing data
- Input/Control Process: Captures keyboard and mouse input and transmits to the remote host
- Background Sync Process: Syncs session data and settings with the ConnectWise Cloud or on-prem broker
- Update/Utility Process: Manages updates, logs, and diagnostics utilities
Is connectwise-control.exe Safe?
Yes, connectwise-control.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from ConnectWise Control downloaded from official sources.
Is connectwise-control.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real connectwise-control.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware sometimes disguises itself using similar names to trick users.
How to Tell if connectwise-control.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\ConnectWise Control\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\ConnectWise Control\. Any connectwise-control.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the file in File Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "ConnectWise, LLC" as the signer.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-10% CPU per active session and 60-250 MB total memory. Very high usage when idle is suspicious.
- Behavior: ConnectWise Control should only run during or in preparation for a remote session. Persistent background behavior when not in use may indicate malware.
Red Flags: If connectwise-control.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp or AppData), runs when no session is active, has no digital signature, or uses constant high resources, scan with antivirus software and verify with ConnectWise support.
Why Is connectwise-control.exe Running on My PC?
connectwise-control.exe runs to support remote sessions, unattended access, and ongoing connection health. It may start with Windows or when you initiate a session.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Remote Session: A technician is connected or actively controlling the host machine.
- Unattended Access Enabled: The agent is configured to allow remote access even when no one is actively present.
- Startup Service: The ConnectWise Control Windows service begins on login to enable quick session creation.
- Background Synchronization: The client synchronizes session data and settings with the cloud or broker while idle.
- Session Health Checks: The client periodically pings the server to maintain an active, ready state for new connections.
Can I Disable or Remove connectwise-control.exe?
Yes, you can disable connectwise-control.exe. If you no longer need remote support, you can close sessions and remove the client. Uninstalling will remove the application and data if you choose.
How to Stop connectwise-control.exe
- End Active Sessions: Close the ConnectWise Control client or end the remote session from the technician's interface
- Quit Client: From the system tray or main window, exit the application
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable ConnectWise Control
- Stop Windows Service: Open Services (services.msc) → Find ConnectWise Control Service → Stop
- Disable Background Behavior: In Client Settings, turn off unattended access if not required
How to Uninstall ConnectWise Control
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → ConnectWise Control → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → ConnectWise Control → Uninstall
- ✔ If you still need remote access, reinstall a safe alternative
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If connectwise-control.exe is consuming excessive resources:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Active Remote Session with High-Resolution Streaming: Limit screen resolution, reduce color depth, or pause the session when not actively needed.
- Unattended Access or Background Sync: Disable unattended access or adjust sync frequency in settings; review active tasks in the client.
- Too Many Simultaneous Sessions: Close other sessions or limit connected technicians through broker settings.
- Outdated Client Version: Update to the latest version: Settings → About → Check for updates
- Resource-Heavy Extensions: Disable unnecessary add-ons or plugins within the ConnectWise Control client.
- Network Latency or Bandwidth Limits: Ensure sufficient network bandwidth and low latency; adjust session quality settings.
Quick Fixes:
1. Close idle remote sessions and reduce streaming quality
2. Check for updates and install the latest version
3. Review and disable unused features in Settings
4. Restart the ConnectWise Control client
5. Run a quick malware scan if unexpected behavior occurs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is connectwise-control.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate connectwise-control.exe from ConnectWise is not a virus. However, always verify the file is located in C:\Program Files\ConnectWise Control\ and has a valid digital signature from "ConnectWise, LLC" or the vendor. Malware sometimes uses similar names to disguise itself.
Why is connectwise-control.exe using so much CPU?
High CPU usage is usually caused by active remote sessions, high-res streaming, or problematic plugins. Use the client task manager to identify the source, reduce session quality, and ensure you’re running the official client.
Can I delete connectwise-control.exe?
Yes, you can uninstall ConnectWise Control through Windows Settings if you no longer need remote support. Your session history may be retained by the broker depending on policy.
Can I disable connectwise-control.exe?
Yes, you can close sessions, disable unattended access, or stop the Windows service. To stop it from starting at boot, disable the startup entry in Task Manager.
Why is connectwise-control.exe running at startup?
The client can be configured to start with Windows to enable prompt session initiation. Disable this in Task Manager → Startup or uninstall if not needed.
Why are there multiple connectwise-control.exe processes?
ConnectWise Control uses a multi-process architecture for performance and security, with separate processes for session control, streaming, and data synchronization.