Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\Mullvad VPN\mullvad.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Mullvad VPN\mullvad.exe
Warning
Multiple Mullvad processes may appear
UI, service, and tunnel components can run in separate processes
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close the Mullvad UI or stop the service; disable at startup if desired
What is mullvad.exe?
mullvad.exe is the Windows executable for Mullvad VPN Client. It orchestrates the VPN tunnel, user interface, and background networking tasks, allowing you to connect securely to Mullvad servers and route traffic through the encrypted tunnel.
The Mullvad client uses a small set of processes to manage VPN connections, keep the tunnel alive, and apply DNS and routing rules. It relies on a system service and a UI process to provide status and controls.
Quick Fact: Mullvad emphasizes privacy and uses simple server selection; the client handles the connection lifecycle with minimal data exposure.
Types of Mullvad Processes
- UI Process: Mullvad window, status indicators, and controls
- VPN Tunnel Process: Establishes and maintains the encrypted tunnel to Mullvad servers
- Service/Background Process: Monitors connectivity and manages auto-reconnect
- Driver Loader: Loads the TAP/TUN driver components required for tunneling
- Updater/Helper: Checks for updates and applies them in the background
- DNS/Routing Helper: Applies DNS settings and routing rules to direct traffic
Is mullvad.exe Safe?
Yes, mullvad.exe is safe when it’s the legitimate Mullvad VPN client executable obtained from Mullvad’s official website or installer.
Is mullvad.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real mullvad.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may misuse names, so verify authenticity.
How to Tell if mullvad.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Mullvad VPN\mullvad.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Mullvad VPN\mullvad.exe. Any mullvad.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click mullvad.exe Properties Digital Signatures. Should show "Mullvad VPN AB" as the signer.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 2-15% CPU per active tunnel, 100-300 MB memory. Persistent high usage with no UI activity is suspicious.
- Behavior: Mullvad should only run when you actively connect or it's performing an update. Constant background activity with no UI may indicate malware.
Red Flags: If mullvad.exe is in unexpected folders (like Temp, AppData\Roaming) or lacks a signature, or if it launches without user action, scan with antivirus and verify from Mullvad's official site.
Why Is mullvad.exe Running on My PC?
Mullvad.exe runs to maintain the VPN tunnel, manage connections, and support auto-connect and background networking features.
Reasons it's running:
- Active VPN Connection: You are connected to a Mullvad server; the tunnel is maintained continuously.
- Background Service: Mullvad runs a background service to monitor connectivity and auto-reconnect if the network changes.
- Startup Program: Mullvad can be configured to start with Windows, ensuring you’re protected at boot.
- System Tray / Auto-Connect: The tray icon may keep the VPN active and reconnect on network changes.
- DNS/Routing Enforcement: Mullvad applies DNS settings and routing rules to prevent leaks and route traffic through the VPN.
Can I Disable or Remove mullvad.exe?
Yes, you can disable mullvad.exe. You can disconnect the VPN, quit the UI, or uninstall Mullvad if you no longer need it.
How to Stop mullvad.exe
- Disconnect VPN: Open the Mullvad UI and click Disconnect, or use system tray to disconnect
- Quit UI: Close the Mullvad window or right-click the tray icon and Exit
- End Service: Open Windows Services (services.msc), find Mullvad VPN Service, and Stop
- Prevent Startup: Task Manager Startup tab Disable Mullvad
- Uninstall Mullvad: Windows Settings Apps Mullvad VPN Uninstall
How to Uninstall Mullvad VPN
- ✔ Windows Settings Apps Apps & Features Mullvad VPN Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel Programs Uninstall a program Mullvad VPN Uninstall
- ✔ Reboot system to ensure drivers/components are removed
Common Problems: VPN Drops, High CPU, or DNS Leaks
If mullvad.exe is misbehaving or causing issues:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Unreliable Internet Connection: Check network stability, switch servers, or use a wired connection
- Long-Running VPN Tunnel: Restart Mullvad or toggle Disconnect/Connect to refresh the tunnel
- High CPU due to Encryption: Update Mullvad and reduce active tunnels; ensure hardware acceleration is enabled if supported
- DNS Leaks: Ensure Mullvad DNS is used; enable DNS leak protection in settings
- Firewall or Antivirus Blocking: Create exceptions for mullvad.exe and Mullvad services in firewall/AV
- Outdated Driver (TAP/TUN): Reinstall or update the TAP/TUN driver via Mullvad installer
Quick Fixes:
1. Open Mullvad, click Disconnect, then Connect to a different server
2. Restart Mullvad service via Windows Services
3. Update Mullvad to the latest version
4. Check firewall rules and add exceptions for Mullvad
5. Run Mullvad as administrator to ensure driver installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mullvad.exe a virus?
No, mullvad.exe is the legitimate Mullvad VPN client executable from Mullvad’s official site or installer. Verify file path under C:\Program Files\Mullvad VPN\mullvad.exe and digital signature.
Why is mullvad.exe using CPU?
CPU usage can rise during encryption, tunnel setup, or when reconnecting. Check Mullvad UI for active connections and consider switching servers or reducing active tunnels.
Can I delete mullvad.exe?
Yes, uninstall Mullvad VPN from Windows Settings or Control Panel. Your privacy settings will be removed unless you back them up, then you can reinstall later.
Can I disable mullvad.exe?
Yes, you can disconnect the VPN, quit helper UI, or disable startup. If you want the VPN off permanently, uninstall Mullvad.
Why is Mullvad running at startup?
If you enabled autostart, Mullvad will launch on login to protect your connection from the moment you sign in.
How do I reduce Mullvad's memory usage?
Limit the number of active tunnels, close unused apps using the VPN, and ensure you’re on the latest version with updated drivers.