gimp-2.10.exe

GNU Image Manipulation Program 2.10

Application ProcessSafeGraphics Editor
CPU Usage
1-10%
Memory
80-350 MB
Location
C:\Program Files\GIMP 2.10
Publisher
The GIMP Team

Quick Answer

gimp-2.10.exe is the legitimate GIMP executable. It launches the GNU Image Manipulation Program and uses plugins, scripts, and GEGL-based processing to edit images.

Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\GIMP 2.10\bin\gimp-2.10.exe
Warning
Processes typically single
GIMP generally runs as a single process; plugins or GEGL steps run within that process.
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close the application to stop activity; there is no separate background service.

What is gimp-2.10.exe?

gimp-2.10.exe is the Windows executable for the GNU Image Manipulation Program version 2.10. GIMP is a free, open‑source image editor that supports layers, masks, filters, color management, and scriptable workflows. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, with a customizable interface and extensive plugin support.

GeGL-based processing powers GIMP 2.10, enabling non‑destructive edits, high‑bit color, and scalable filters. It uses GTK for the interface, supports layers, masks, and extensive plugins, with multi‑threaded rendering across compatible platforms.

Quick Fact: GIMP 2.10 introduced extensive GEGL-based processing and non‑destructive editing capabilities, improving image quality and plugin workflows.

Types of GIMP Processes

Is gimp-2.10.exe Safe?

Yes, gimp-2.10.exe is safe when it is the legitimate file from the official GIMP project downloaded from gimp.org or packaged by a trusted distributor.

Is gimp-2.10.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real gimp-2.10.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can masquerade as similarly named files; always verify the file location and digital signature.

How to Tell if gimp-2.10.exe is Legitimate or Malware

  1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\GIMP 2.10\bin\gimp-2.10.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\GIMP 2.10\bin\gimp-2.10.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
  2. Digital Signature: Right-click the executable in File Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show publisher "The GIMP Team" or official maintainers.
  3. Version & Publisher: Check the file version and publisher in Details; compare to the official release notes from gimp.org.
  4. Resource Usage: Normal usage is modest; extremely high CPU when idle could indicate a misbehaving plugin or malware.

Red Flags: If gimp-2.10.exe is located outside typical install folders (like AppData, Temp), runs without UI, has no valid signature, or uses constant high resources, run a full antivirus scan and verify the source.

Why Is gimp-2.10.exe Running on My PC?

GIMP 2.10 runs when you start the application or when a batch/auto-save or plugin operation is active. It may also stay resident if a background task or external script is in progress.

Reasons it's running:

Can I Disable or Remove gimp-2.10.exe?

Yes, you can disable gimp-2.10.exe. It's safe to close GIMP when not in use, and you can uninstall it completely if you prefer a different editor.

How to Stop gimp-2.10.exe

How to Uninstall GIMP 2.10

Common Problems: Performance and Stability

If gimp-2.10.exe is slow or unstable, try targeted fixes for memory, plugins, and rendering settings.

Common Causes & Solutions

Quick Fixes:
1. Open Task Manager and monitor gimp-2.10.exe resource usage
2. Disable unnecessary plugins in Edit → Preferences → Plugins
3. Update GIMP to the latest 2.10.x release from gimp.org
4. Increase memory cache: Edit → Preferences → Environment
5. Enable OpenGL display: Edit → Preferences → Display → Use OpenGL for display

Frequently Asked Questions

Is gimp-2.10.exe a virus?

No, the legitimate gimp-2.10.exe from the GIMP project is not a virus. Always verify the path (C:\Program Files\GIMP 2.10\bin\gimp-2.10.exe) and digital signature from the official source.

Why is gimp-2.10.exe using so much CPU?

High CPU can result from complex filters, large images, or heavy plugins. Check the active document and disable or update problematic plugins; consider lowering image resolution for edits.

Can I delete gimp-2.10.exe?

Yes, you can uninstall GIMP 2.10 through Windows Settings → Apps, but your saved work may be removed unless you back up your files or sync with a cloud service.

Can I disable gimp-2.10.exe?

Yes, simply close GIMP or End Task in Task Manager. To stop startup, disable it in Task Manager → Startup tab.

Why does GIMP take so long to start?

First-run initialization, plugin scans, and initial cache building can take time. Update to the latest version, disable unnecessary plugins, and ensure adequate system resources.

How do I speed up GIMP 2.10?

Increase memory cache, enable OpenGL display if supported, optimize image size, disable unused plugins, and keep GEGL-enabled features up to date.

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