Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\IPVanish VPN\IPVanish.exe or similar within the installation folder
Warning
Multiple processes common
IPVanish may spawn a small number of helper processes or services for tunneling and DNS.
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close the IPVanish client or disable startup if you do not want it to run
What is ipvanish.exe?
ipvanish.exe is the executable file for the IPVanish VPN client. IPVanish uses a dedicated desktop client to manage VPN connections, select servers, and enforce encryption for your internet traffic.
The IPVanish client runs as ipvanish.exe to establish a secure tunnel, configure a virtual adapter, and manage the VPN session. It includes a background service and UI for server selection and kill switch control.
Quick Fact: IPVanish initially introduced its Windows client to provide easy one-click VPN connections with per-connection encryption.
Types of IPVanish Processes
- IPVanish Client Process: Main UI and control interface (1 instance)
- VPN Tunnel Manager: Handles the VPN tunnel and encryption layer (per active connection)
- DNS Resolver Service: Publishes private DNS to prevent leaks
- Background Service: Status checks, updates, and license management
- TAP Driver/Network Adapter: Windows virtual network adapter used by the VPN tunnel
- Update Helper: Checks for new client updates and builds
Is ipvanish.exe Safe?
Yes, ipvanish.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from IPVanish downloaded from official sources (ipvanish.com or the Microsoft Store where applicable).
Is ipvanish.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real ipvanish.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can masquerade as VPN software. Verify digital signatures and folder paths.
How to Tell if ipvanish.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\IPVanish VPN\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\IPVanish VPN\. Any ipvanish.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show a valid signature from IPVanish, LLC (or StackPath, depending on vendor).
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 0-15% CPU per process and 60-250 MB memory when idle. Unusually high usage when idle is suspicious.
- Behavior: IPVanish should not run when you are not using a VPN session. Continuous activity when disconnected is a red flag.
Red Flags: If ipvanish.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp, AppData\Roaming, or System32), runs when the VPN isn't active, has no valid digital signature, or uses persistent resources, scan for malware with a reputable tool. Look for similarly named files from untrusted sources.
Why Is ipvanish.exe Running on My PC?
ipvanish.exe runs to maintain VPN connections, apply encryption, and manage the IPVanish client state. It may stay active while the VPN is connected or configured to run in the background.
Reasons it's running:
- Active VPN Connection: You are connected to an IPVanish server; the client maintains the tunnel and traffic encryption.
- Background VPN Tasks: DNS protection, kill switch checks, and periodic rekeying run in the background.
- Startup or Background Service: IPVanish may be configured to launch at Windows startup or remain active as a background service.
- Auto-Connect / Quick Connect: IPVanish can auto-connect when network changes or on login, causing ipvanish.exe to run in the background.
- Network Adapter Management: The installer creates a virtual TAP/WAN adapter; the process manages the adapter lifecycle and routing rules.
Can I Disable or Remove ipvanish.exe?
Yes, you can disable ipvanish.exe. It's safe to close the IPVanish client when not in use, and you can uninstall it completely if you prefer a different VPN.
How to Stop ipvanish.exe
- Disconnect VPN: Open IPVanish and click Disconnect to terminate the VPN tunnel
- Close Client: Exit the IPVanish UI or use the system tray icon to quit
- Stop Services: Open Services (services.msc), locate IPVanish services, and stop them
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup → Disable IPVanish
- Disable Background Apps: In IPVanish Settings → General → uncheck 'Launch on startup' and 'Run in background'
How to Uninstall IPVanish
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → IPVanish VPN Client → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → IPVanish VPN Client → Uninstall
- ✔ Restart your PC and consider a preferred alternative VPN
Common Problems: VPN Not Connecting or Slow
If ipvanish.exe is not connecting or VPN speeds are slow, check common causes and apply recommended fixes.
Common Causes & Solutions
- No Internet or intermittent connectivity: Verify network access, try a different network, and ensure firewall allows IPVanish traffic.
- Incorrect credentials or account status: Login again in the IPVanish client and verify your subscription status.
- Server overload or poor routing: Switch to a different IPVanish server or protocol (OpenVPN/IKEv2) and retry.
- Firewall/Antivirus blocks: Add IPVanish to allowed apps and temporarily disable firewall to test.
- DNS leaks or misconfiguration: Use IPVanish DNS or enable 'Strict DNS' in settings; flush DNS.
- Outdated client or lingering background tasks: Update IPVanish to the latest version and restart the app/computer.
Quick Fixes:
1. Open IPVanish and click Disconnect, then Reconnect to a different server
2. Check connectivity with a web page and ensure VPN is enabled
3. Restart the IPVanish client or system
4. Run IPVanish as Administrator to fix permission issues
5. Update to the latest IPVanish client version
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ipvanish.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate ipvanish.exe from IPVanish is not a virus. Verify the installation path is C:\\Program Files\\IPVanish VPN\\ and that the digital signature is valid from IPVanish, LLC.
Why is ipvanish.exe running on startup?
IPVanish may be configured to start with Windows to provide immediate VPN protection. Disable startup in Task Manager → Startup or via the IPVanish settings.
How do I disable ipvanish.exe?
Disconnect any active VPN, then close the IPVanish client and disable startup. You can also stop related services via Services.msc.
Can IP leaks occur with IPVanish?
IP leakage can occur if the VPN is not connected or DNS settings bypass the tunnel. Enable the Kill Switch and DNS protection in the IPVanish app.
Is there a Kill Switch in IPVanish?
Yes. IPVanish includes a Kill Switch feature in its settings to block traffic if the VPN disconnects unexpectedly.
How do I uninstall IPVanish?
Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → IPVanish VPN Client → Uninstall. Reboot after uninstall.