logmein-hamachi.exe

What is logmein-hamachi.exe?

logmein-hamachi.exe is the executable for the LogMeIn Hamachi VPN client. It creates and maintains virtual network adapters, enabling peer-to-peer VPN connections without requiring traditional VPN servers. The process runs alongside a UI and system service to manage networks.

Hamachi uses a client-service architecture and a virtual adapter to create encrypted tunnels between peers. The core service handles network topology, NAT traversal, and keep-alive heartbeats to sustain VPN sessions.

Types of LogMeIn Hamachi Processes

• Hamachi Service: Background service that maintains VPN tunnels and peer communication
• Hamachi UI: Graphical interface for creating networks and managing clients
• Networking Driver: TUN/TAP driver and components for virtual network adapter
• Peer Communication Engine: Handles discovery, handshakes, and NAT traversal
• Updater/Installer: Module responsible for updates and component installation
• Background Utilities: Background tasks and utilities used by Hamachi

Is logmein-hamachi.exe Safe?

Yes, logmein-hamachi.exe is safe when it is the legitimate LogMeIn Hamachi file installed from the official site or bundled by a trusted vendor.

Is logmein-hamachi.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real logmein-hamachi.exe is NOT a virus. Malicious software may masquerade as similarly named files; verify location and signature.

How to Tell if logmein-hamachi.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files (x86)\LogMeIn Hamachi\logmein-hamachi.exe or C:\Program Files\LogMeIn Hamachi\logmein-hamachi.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show a valid signature from "LogMeIn, Inc." or the vendor.
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is low when idle; higher usage occurs with active VPN tasks. Unusual constant high usage outside VPN tasks is suspicious.
4. Behavior: Hamachi should only run when you are using or actively maintaining VPN networks. Constant background operation with no UI may indicate malware.

Why Is logmein-hamachi.exe Running on My PC?

logmein-hamachi.exe runs when the Hamachi VPN client is active or configured to start automatically, and may stay resident for background VPN connectivity.

Reasons it's running:

• Active VPN Networks: You have Hamachi networks joined or hosted; the service maintains tunnels and keep-alives for connectivity.
• Background Network Monitoring: Hamachi monitors network interfaces and peer status to maintain VPN readiness even when the UI is closed.
• Startup Launch: Hamachi is configured to start on Windows boot or user login, keeping VPN ready for use.
• NAT Traversal and P2P: The service handles NAT traversal, peer discovery, and cryptographic handshakes for connections.
• UI/Background Sync: The GUI component may stay resident to provide quick access while maintaining background sync with the service.

Can I Disable or Remove logmein-hamachi.exe?

Yes, you can disable logmein-hamachi.exe. You can stop the service, close the UI, or uninstall Hamachi if you no longer need it.

How to Stop logmein-hamachi.exe

• End Hamachi UI: Close the Hamachi window; then stop the service from Services.msc or Task Manager if running as a process.
• Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable LogMeIn Hamachi
• Stop Service: Open Services (services.msc), find LogMeIn Hamachi, set Startup type to Disabled and stop the service.
• Remove Network Adapters: Open Network Connections and remove the Hamachi VPN adapters if desired.
• Disable Background Apps: In Hamachi settings, turn off 'Continue running in the background' if available.

How to Uninstall Hamachi

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → LogMeIn Hamachi → Uninstall
• ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → LogMeIn Hamachi → Uninstall
• ✔ Reboot the computer after uninstallation

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If logmein-hamachi.exe is consuming excessive resources:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Active VPN traffic: VPN tunnels communicate with peers; reduce networks or pause activity to lower usage.
• Background UI syncing: Close UI or disable background sync to reduce overhead.
• Outdated Hamachi version: Update Hamachi to the latest version from the official site.
• Conflicting VPN adapters: Disable or remove conflicting VPN adapters via Network Connections.
• Malware or tampered file: Scan with antivirus and verify digital signature.
• High frequency heartbeats: Lower keep-alive settings if available or reduce network activity.

Related Processes