What is hidclass.exe?
hidclass.exe is the Windows HID Class Driver executable used to support Human Interface Devices (HID) such as keyboards, mice, and game controllers. It coordinates user-mode interactions with the kernel-mode HID stack to ensure devices enumerate and deliver input reports.
This component participates in the Windows HID stack to enable input device enumeration, event delivery, and coordination with device drivers. It helps maintain low-latency input handling across USB and Bluetooth HID peripherals.
Quick Fact: The HID class driver is central to responsive keyboard and mouse input, binding hardware events to Windows input subsystems.
Types of HID Processes
- Kernel Driver: hidclass.sys handles low-level HID communication (kernel mode)
- User-Mode Interface: hidclass.exe coordinates user-mode HID tasks and event routing
- Device Enumeration: Handles enumeration and capabilities for HID devices on connect
- Input Processing: Facilitates translation of HID reports into Windows input events
Is hidclass.exe Safe?
Yes, hidclass.exe is safe when it's the legitimate Windows system file located in C:\Windows\System32\ and is signed by Microsoft.
Is hidclass.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real hidclass.exe is NOT a virus. Malware sometimes disguises itself with similar names to mislead users.
How to Tell if hidclass.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Should be in
C:\Windows\System32\hidclass.exe for the legitimate driver. Any HIDCLASS.EXE outside System32 is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Open file properties and verify a digital signature from Microsoft Windows (Microsoft Windows Publisher).
- Resource Usage: Healthy system driver uses modest CPU/memory; excessive spikes or constant heavy usage is suspicious.
- Behavior: Should only run as part of the HID stack; persistent background network activity or unusual child processes are red flags.
Red Flags: If hidclass.exe is missing from System32, located in temp folders, lacks a valid signature, or shows unusual network activity, scan with up-to-date antivirus and consider system restore.
Why Is hidclass.exe Running on My PC?
hidclass.exe runs as part of Windows input handling. It initializes and maintains communication with HID devices, even when there is no direct user input, to ensure devices respond quickly when used.
Reasons it's running:
- Active HID Input Devices: Keys, mice, game controllers, or other HID devices enable the HID stack and may spawn this process.
- Background HID Processing: The OS may poll or process input reports for power management and event distribution.
- Driver Initialization at Boot: During startup, Windows loads the HID class driver components to enable input devices immediately.
- Plug-and-Play Device Enumeration: New HID devices trigger enumeration and driver loading, potentially creating related processes.
- Driver Updates or Reconfiguration: Windows updates or device reconfiguration can cause HID components to reinitialize, temporarily running hidclass.exe.
Can I Disable or Remove hidclass.exe?
Disabling hidclass.exe is strongly discouraged. It is a core Windows HID driver component; disabling can render keyboards, mice, or other HID devices unusable.
How to Stop hidclass.exe (Safely)
- Disconnect HID devices: Unplug keyboards, mice, or other HID peripherals to reduce activity.
- Disable a specific HID device: Open Device Manager > Human Interface Devices, right-click a device (e.g., HID-compliant keyboard) > Disable.
- Restart the system: A reboot will unload drivers if no devices are connected.
- Check for driver updates: Windows Update may provide updated HID drivers; install available updates.
- Advanced: Safe removal: If you must test, perform a clean shutdown and revert changes if input devices fail.
How to Remove HID Class Driver (Advanced)
- ✔ Do not remove core Windows drivers unless you know the consequences. Prefer updating or rolling back drivers.
- ✔ In Device Manager, disable HID devices first, then uninstall related HID driver packages if available under 'System devices' (not recommended).
- ✔ Restart Windows to apply changes.
Common Problems: HID Input Issues
If hidclass.exe or HID input devices are misbehaving, try the following common scenarios and fixes.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Missing or disabled HID devices: Reconnect or re-enable HID devices; inspect USB ports and cables.
- Outdated HID drivers: Update HID drivers via Windows Update or device manufacturer website.
- Device driver conflicts: Uninstall conflicting drivers, perform a clean boot, and reinstall HID components.
- Device connected to a faulty USB hub: Try a direct connection to PC USB port; replace hub if needed.
- Corrupted HID stack: Run sfc /scannow and DISM; reboot and update.
- Malware impersonation: Run full-system antivirus scan; verify file location and signatures.
Quick Fixes:
1. Disconnect and reconnect HID devices to re-enumerate
2. Update HID drivers via Windows Update
3. Run Hardware and Devices troubleshooter (Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot)
4. Check USB ports and cables
5. Run a malware scan and verify signatures
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hidclass.exe a virus?
The legitimate hidclass.exe is a Windows system driver component located in C:\Windows\System32 and signed by Microsoft. Malware can masquerade with similar names, so verify path and signature.
Why is hidclass.exe running when no HID devices are connected?
Windows loads HID components at startup to support devices when connected later. It may run briefly during device discovery or background services.
Can I disable hidclass.exe?
Disabling it is not recommended; it can break input devices. If needed, disable specific HID devices via Device Manager rather than the driver itself.
Where is hidclass.exe located?
Typically in C:\Windows\System32\hidclass.exe. Verify the file's digital signature to confirm legitimacy.
How do I troubleshoot HID input problems?
Update/h reinstall HID drivers, run sfc/dism, test with different HID devices, and check for malware. Use Device Manager to disable problematic devices.
Can HID issues affect gaming peripherals?
Yes, keyboards, mice, and game controllers use HID; driver problems or USB issues can impact input in games and applications.