Quick Answer
hyperx-ngenuity.exe is safe. It is HyperX Ngenuity software used to customize keyboards, mice, and other HyperX peripherals; it runs in a dedicated process and can be closed when not in use.
Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\HyperX Ngenuity\Ngenuity.exe
Warning
Most users see a single Ngenuity process; multiple processes may appear when profiles load
Each device profile or plugin may spawn a separate thread/process
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close Ngenuity or prevent startup via Task Manager → Startup to stop auto-launch
What is hyperx-ngenuity.exe?
hyperx-ngenuity.exe is the executable for HyperX Ngenuity, the configuration software that lets you customize lighting, macros, and button mappings for HyperX keyboards, mice, headsets, and other peripherals. It runs as a background service and a UI application to apply profiles quickly.
Ngenuity uses a small service plus a UI to push device profiles. It communicates with HID devices to apply lighting, macros, and performance settings, and stores profiles locally for quick switching.
Quick Fact: HyperX Ngenuity supports real-time per-device lighting profiles across multiple peripherals.
Types of HyperX Ngenuity Processes
- Ngenuity UI Process: User interface window for creating and applying profiles (1 instance)
- Ngenuity Backend Service: Background service applying profiles and communicating with devices
- Profiling Import/Export: Handles profile import/export tasks
- Device Driver Loader: Initializes device-specific drivers for peripherals
- Update Checker: Checks for Ngenuity software updates
- Logging / Telemetry: Captures debug and usage logs for support
Is hyperx-ngenuity.exe Safe?
Yes, hyperx-ngenuity.exe is safe when it comes from official HyperX sources and is located in the legitimate installation folder.
Is hyperx-ngenuity.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real hyperx-ngenuity.exe is NOT a virus. Malware can masquerade as legitimate software; verify with a signature and correct path.
How to Tell if hyperx-ngenuity.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\HyperX Ngenuity\Ngenuity.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\HyperX Ngenuity\Ngenuity.exe. Any other location is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Open the file location and check the Digital Signatures tab for a signature from HyperX; the installer or signed binary should confirm authenticity. Path example:
C:\Program Files\HyperX Ngenuity\Ngenuity.exe.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-10% CPU, 50-200 MB memory. Constant high usage outside of profile changes may indicate a problem.
- Behavior: Ngenuity should only run when you open the app or a device requires profiles. Persistent background activity without UI is suspicious.
Red Flags: If hyperx-ngenuity.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp or AppData), starts without user interaction, lacks a valid signature, or uses resources constantly, run a full antivirus scan. Beware of similarly named files such as "hyperx-ngenuity64.exe".
Why Is hyperx-ngenuity.exe Running on My PC?
hyperx-ngenuity.exe runs to apply and manage lighting, macros, and profiles for HyperX peripherals, and can run in the background to keep devices updated.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Peripherals Configuration: When you customize lighting or button mappings, Ngenuity applies changes to connected devices.
- Profile Sync and Background Tasks: Ngenuity may run to sync profiles across devices and save changes even when the UI is closed.
- Startup and Auto-Launch: Ngenuity can launch at Windows startup or when a HyperX device is connected for the first time.
- Firmware Checks and Updates: Software may check for firmware updates and ensure device compatibility, which runs Ngenuity in the background.
- Device Connection Events: Connecting new HyperX peripherals can trigger Ngenuity to initialize device profiles and drivers.
Can I Disable or Remove hyperx-ngenuity.exe?
Yes, you can disable hyperx-ngenuity.exe. Customization features will be unavailable, but you can still use devices with basic drivers.
How to Stop hyperx-ngenuity.exe
- End UI or Background Service: In Task Manager, end the Ngenuity UI process or the Ngenuity Backend Service
- Close App: Close the Ngenuity window from the system tray or from the taskbar
- Prevent Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable HyperX Ngenuity
- Stop Background Tasks: Within Ngenuity Settings, disable background tasks and overlays
- Uninstall (optional): Windows Settings → Apps → HyperX Ngenuity → Uninstall
How to Uninstall HyperX Ngenuity
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → HyperX Ngenuity → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → HyperX Ngenuity → Uninstall
- ✔ Restart your PC after uninstallation
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If hyperx-ngenuity.exe is consuming excessive resources:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Active customization changes: Apply or save profile changes and close the Ngenuity UI to reduce active processing
- Background profile syncing: Disable automatic sync in Ngenuity Settings to limit background activity
- Multiple profiles loaded: Close or consolidate profiles; avoid loading many lighting schemes at once
- Outdated Ngenuity version: Check for updates and install the latest Ngenuity release
- Conflicting peripherals: Disconnect some devices or reset device profiles to resolve conflicts
- Corrupt configuration: Reset settings or reinstall Ngenuity to restore defaults
Quick Fixes:
1. Open Ngenuity Task Manager (Shift+Esc) and end heavy tasks
2. Update Ngenuity to the latest version from the official HyperX site
3. Disable unnecessary devices in Ngenuity settings
4. Clear cached data or reset profiles
5. Reinstall Ngenuity if problems persist
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hyperx-ngenuity.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate hyperx-ngenuity.exe from HyperX is not a virus. Ensure it is installed in C:\Program Files\HyperX Ngenuity\ and is signed by HyperX.
Where is HyperX Ngenuity installed?
Typically, HyperX Ngenuity installs to C:\Program Files\HyperX Ngenuity\. If you customized the installation path, verify with Programs and Features.
How do I stop Ngenuity from starting at boot?
Open Task Manager → Startup tab → locate HyperX Ngenuity and set Disabled. Alternatively, disable startup options in Ngenuity settings.
Why does Ngenuity cause high CPU or memory usage?
This can happen during profile changes, overlays, or when syncing devices. Use Task Manager to identify the source and close heavy tasks or update the software.
How can I uninstall HyperX Ngenuity?
Go to Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → HyperX Ngenuity → Uninstall. Reboot after uninstall.
What should I do if devices aren’t recognized by Ngenuity?
Ensure drivers are up to date, reseat USB devices, reconnect peripherals, and run Ngenuity with admin rights to detect devices.