Is mpchc64.exe a Virus?
NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\MPC-HC or C:\Program Files (x86)\MPC-HC and signed by the MPC-HC Team
Warning
Typically a single process
MPC-HC runs as one main process; multiple instances occur if you launch separate copies or file associations.
Can I Disable?
YES
Close MPC-HC to stop playback; disable startup shortcuts or shell integration if needed
What is mpc-hc64.exe?
mpc-hc64.exe is the executable for Media Player Classic - Home Cinema (MPC-HC), a lightweight Windows media player designed for straightforward playback of a broad range of video and audio formats. It uses built-in DirectShow or external codecs, offers subtitle support, playlists, and a clean minimal interface suitable for everyday viewing.
MPC-HC runs as a compact process that decodes media using DirectShow or bundled codecs. It can leverage GPU acceleration (DXVA2/VA-API) to lower CPU load, supports subtitles and playlists with a minimal UI, and relies on lightweight filters to maximize compatibility.
Quick Fact: MPC-HC began as a lightweight player focused on simplicity and broad format support; it remains popular for its lean footprint and straightforward controls.
Types of MPC-HC Processes
- Main Process: Primary mpchc64.exe window and controls
- Decoder Threads: DirectShow/LAV filters decoding streams
- Renderer Threads: Video rendering pipeline
- Subtitle Renderer: Subtitle rendering and font handling
- IPC/Control: Inter-process communication handlers for external controllers
- Playlist & Cache: Playlist management and buffering tasks
Is mpchc.exe Safe?
Yes, mpchc.exe is safe when downloaded from the official MPC-HC project sources and installed from trusted distributors.
Is mpchc.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real mpchc.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware sometimes disguises itself with similar names. Verify authenticity to avoid spoofed files.
How to Tell if mpchc.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location:: Must be in
C:\Program Files\MPC-HC\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\MPC-HC\. Any mpchc.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature:: Right-click the mpchc64.exe > Properties > Digital Signatures. Should show signer as 'MPC-HC Team' or 'MPC-HC Project'.
- Resource Usage:: Normal usage is 1-15% CPU per video, 60-250 MB memory. Excessive or constant usage with no playback is suspicious.
- Behavior:: MPC-HC should run when you open a file or when you explicitly launch it. Unprompted background activity warrants scanning.
Red Flags: If mpchc.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp, AppData, or System32), runs when no player is open, has no legitimate signature, or uses unusual resources constantly, scan your system with antivirus. Beware of similarly-named files like 'mpc-hc64.exe' from untrusted sources.
Why Is mpchc.exe Running on My PC?
mpc-hc64.exe runs when you open MPC-HC or when it is configured to run at startup or to respond to file associations and IPC control requests.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Playback: You're currently playing a video or audio file; the MPC-HC process is required to decode and render playback.
- IPC/External Control: External apps or scripts may start MPC-HC to control playback via IPC (inter-process communication) interfaces.
- Startup or Auto-Launch: MPC-HC is configured to launch at Windows startup or via a startup entry, so the process can be ready for quick playback.
- File Associations: Clicking or dragging media into Explorer with MPC-HC registered as the default player launches mpchc-exe.
- Network Streaming: Playing network streams (HTTP/RTSP) may keep the process active to buffer and decode streaming data.
Can I Disable or Remove mpchc.exe?
Yes, you can disable mpchc.exe. If you don't use MPC-HC, uninstall it to remove the executable; otherwise close the player when not in use.
How to Stop mpchc.exe
- Close MPC-HC: Use the Close button or Alt+F4 to exit the player.
- Exit from Taskbar: Right-click the MPC-HC taskbar icon and choose Exit.
- Disable Startup: Task Manager > Startup tab > Disable MPC-HC
- Remove IPC/Associations: In MPC-HC settings, disable IPC or unassociate media file types if undesired.
- Uninstall MPC-HC: Windows Settings > Apps > Apps & Features > MPC-HC > Uninstall
How to Uninstall MPC-HC
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → MPC-HC → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → MPC-HC → Uninstall
- ✔ If preferred, consider alternate players: VLC, PotPlayer, or KMPlayer
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If mpchc.exe is consuming excessive resources:
Common Causes & Solutions
- High-resolution or heavy codec content (HEVC/4K): Enable hardware decoding: MPC-HC Settings → Playback → Output → Use hardware decoder (DXVA2/VA-API) and update GPU drivers.
- Outdated MPC-HC version: Update to the latest stable MPC-HC build from the official repo or distribution site.
- Conflicting or missing codecs: Use built-in MPC-HC decoders or install a trusted filter pack (e.g., LAV Filters) and set filters appropriately.
- GPU driver issues: Update graphics drivers; if issues persist, temporarily disable hardware acceleration in MPC-HC settings.
- Many subtitles or complex rendering: Disable extra subtitle rendering options or reduce subtitle font/size; try a different subtitle renderer if available.
- Network streaming buffering problems: Check network stability, switch to wired connection, or reduce buffering under Playback options.
Quick Fixes:
1. Quick Fixes:
2. 1. Open MPC-HC Task Manager (if available) and identify heavy decoding tasks
3. Enable hardware decoding: Settings → Playback → Output
4. Update MPC-HC to the latest build
5. Disable unnecessary codecs or external filters
6. Enable Memory Saver or disable background buffering for streaming
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mpchc64.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate mpchc64.exe from MPC-HC is not a virus. Verify the file is located in C:\Program Files\MPC-HC or C:\Program Files (x86)\MPC-HC and has a signer listed as 'MPC-HC Team' or 'MPC-HC Project'.
Why is mpchc.exe using so much CPU?
High CPU usage usually happens with software decoding of high-resolution content (4K/HEVC) or from poorly optimized codecs. Enable hardware decoding and update drivers; check for problematic files or subtitles.
Can I delete mpchc.exe?
Yes, you can uninstall MPC-HC via Windows Settings → Apps or Control Panel. Your preferences and playlists may be removed unless you back them up.
Can I disable mpchc.exe from starting at boot?
Yes. Disable the MPC-HC entry in Task Manager > Startup, or remove any startup shortcuts that launch MPC-HC automatically.
Where are MPC-HC settings stored?
MPC-HC stores user settings in the MPC-HC folder inside your AppData and in the program folder; you can reset by deleting the settings files or using the 'Reset to defaults' option.
Does MPC-HC support GPU acceleration?
Yes. MPC-HC supports GPU acceleration through DXVA2/VA-API when enabled in Settings → Playback → Output. Ensure your GPU drivers are up to date.