jitsi.exe

What is jitsi.exe?

jitsi.exe is the Windows executable for the Jitsi Desktop Client, a free, open-source video conferencing application. It launches the user interface, coordinates audio/video capture, chat, and signaling components, and connects to Jitsi servers or self-hosted deployments. The client supports encrypted calls and multi-party meetings.

Jitsi Desktop runs as modular Java components; jitsi.exe coordinates the main window, audio/video capture, and network signaling. It leverages libjitsi for media and uses XMPP/Jingle for session setup in a multi-process layout.

Types of Jitsi Processes

• Main UI Process: User interface, windows, and controls
• Media Process: Audio/video capture and encoding/decoding
• Signaling/Networking: XMPP/Jingle signaling and server communication
• Plugin/Extension Process: Optional modules loaded into the client
• Updater/Background: Background update checks and tasks

Is jitsi.exe Safe?

Yes, jitsi.exe is safe when it comes from the official Jitsi/8x8 distribution and installed from trusted sources.

Is jitsi.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real jitsi.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can disguise itself with similar names to trick users.

How to Tell if jitsi.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\Jitsi\jitsi.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Jitsi\jitsi.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show signer as "8x8, Inc." or the Jitsi project.
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is 2-12% CPU and 100-350 MB memory per instance. High, constant usage with no conferencing is suspicious.
4. Behavior: Jitsi should run when you launch the app or during an active meeting. Continuous background mining or network activity without a UI is suspicious.

Why Is jitsi.exe Running on My PC?

jitsi.exe runs when you start the Jitsi Desktop Client or when background tasks or ongoing calls require media or signaling services.

Reasons it's running:

• Active Call or Meeting: You are in a conference; the media stack and signaling run in the background to support audio/video.
• Background Chat or Presence: Chat, file transfer, and user presence may keep components active even if the UI is minimized.
• Startup Launch: Jitsi Desktop can be configured to start on Windows boot, launching jitsi.exe automatically.
• Background Updates: The updater component may run in the background to check for new versions and patches.
• Background Notifications: Notification services and call reminders can keep a small process alive even when the main window is closed.

Can I Disable or Remove jitsi.exe?

Yes, you can disable jitsi.exe. You can close Jitsi when not in use and uninstall it if you don't need the app.

How to Stop jitsi.exe

• End Active Calls: In the Jitsi UI, end the current call and exit the application
• Close the Application: Use the close button or Alt+F4 to quit Jitsi
• End Task in Task Manager: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), locate jitsi.exe, right-click → End Task
• Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Jitsi Desktop
• Stop Background Checks: Jitsi Settings → General → Disable "Check for updates" and background tasks

How to Uninstall Jitsi

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Jitsi Desktop → Uninstall
• ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Jitsi Desktop → Uninstall
• ✔ Delete remaining Jitsi folders if needed (C:\Program Files\Jitsi or C:\Program Files (x86)\Jitsi)

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If jitsi.exe is consuming excessive resources during a conference or idle, try these checks.

Common Causes & Solutions

• Too Many Participants: Each participant adds media streams. Reduce participants, or disable large video layout in settings.
• Video Resolution or HDR: Lower video resolution or disable HD in settings to reduce CPU load.
• Background Chat/Presence: Disable unnecessary chat or presence watchers; close unused chats.
• Outdated Jitsi Version: Update Jitsi to the latest version via the built-in updater.
• Driver/Hardware Acceleration: Update graphics drivers or disable hardware acceleration in Settings → Advanced → System.
• Malicious Extensions or Plugins: Remove suspicious plugins; use only trusted add-ons.

Related Processes