Quick Answer
nbtstat.exe is a legitimate Windows networking utility. It displays NetBIOS over TCP/IP statistics and name tables, typically used by administrators to diagnose NetBIOS name resolution and session issues.
Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Windows\System32\nbtstat.exe
Warning
Typically a single process
If multiple instances appear, verify there are no third-party tools invoking it
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
nbtstat.exe is a diagnostic tool; you generally do not need to run it constantly. You can avoid using it if not diagnosing networking.
What is nbtstat.exe?
nbtstat.exe is the Windows NetBIOS over TCP/IP statistics utility. When invoked from Command Prompt, it queries NetBIOS name tables, cache entries, and current sessions to help diagnose name resolution and connectivity issues in Windows networking. It is a built-in tool used by administrators for network troubleshooting.
The tool uses NetBIOS over TCP/IP queries to display local and remote name records and active sessions. It supports options like -n, -A, and -a to show names in different scopes, aiding troubleshooting of legacy NetBIOS name resolution and Windows networking behavior.
Quick Fact: NetBIOS over TCP/IP relies on name service queries; nbtstat.exe is a lightweight, legacy utility included with Windows for quick diagnostic checks.
Types of nbtstat Processes
- Command-Line Process: Runs as a single process when you execute nbtstat from CMD or PowerShell
- Name Table Query Process: Queries local/remote NetBIOS name tables per invocation
- Cache Lookup Process: Reads NetBIOS name cache and LMHOSTS/WINS information
- Session Diagnostics: Shows active sessions with remote hosts via NetBIOS
- Output/Reporting: Formats results for display on screen or in logs
- System Interaction: Interacts with TCP/IP stack and LMHOSTS/WINS data if configured
Is nbtstat.exe Safe?
Yes, nbtstat.exe is safe when it’s the legitimate Microsoft binary located in C:\Windows\System32\ and digitally signed by Microsoft Corporation.
Is nbtstat.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real nbtstat.exe is not a virus. Malware may mimic names; verify the file path and signature to confirm authenticity.
How to Tell if nbtstat.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in C:\Windows\System32\nbtstat.exe or C:\Windows\SysWOW64\nbtstat.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click nbtstat.exe in File Explorer -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show a valid signature from Microsoft Corporation.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is minimal when not actively diagnosing. High or persistent CPU/memory usage outside of a command is suspicious.
- Behavior: nbtstat.exe should not initiate unsolicited network connections. Unusual activity warrants a malware scan.
Red Flags: If nbtstat.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp or AppData), runs without user interaction, lacks a valid signature, or shows unexpected network activity, scan with antivirus software immediately.
Why Is nbtstat.exe Running on My PC?
nbtstat.exe runs when you actively diagnose NetBIOS/TCP/IP issues or when a script or admin task invokes it.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Network Diagnostics: Used during NetBIOS/TCPIP troubleshooting to query name tables and sessions.
- NetBIOS Name Resolution Checks: Assists in verifying local and remote NetBIOS name resolution.
- LMHOSTS/WINS Configuration: Shows how LMHOSTS or WINS data affects name resolution.
- Legacy Networking: Supports older networking environments still using NetBIOS.
- Scripting or Admin Tasks: Invoked by scripts or remote management tools to collect information.
Can I Disable or Remove nbtstat.exe?
Not removable as a built-in Windows utility, but you can avoid running it. You can disable NetBIOS over TCP/IP if you do not need NetBIOS name resolution.
How to Stop nbtstat.exe
- Avoid Running It: Do not execute nbtstat.exe from CMD or scripts unless troubleshooting is required.
- Close Diagnostic Sessions: If a CMD window is running nbtstat, close the session.
- Disable NetBIOS over TCP/IP: Control Panel > Network Connections > [Adapter] > Properties > IPv4 > Advanced > WINS > Disable NetBIOS over TCP/IP
How to Uninstall nbtstat.exe
- ✔ Not applicable: nbtstat.exe is a built-in Windows utility and cannot be uninstalled. If you are reducing NetBIOS usage, disable NetBIOS over TCP/IP in NIC settings.
Common Problems: NetBIOS Diagnostics
If nbtstat.exe returns errors or shows unexpected results, consider the following checks and fixes.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Wrong command or syntax: Use correct syntax, e.g., 'nbtstat -n' for local names or 'nbtstat -A <IP>' for a remote host.
- NetBIOS over TCP/IP disabled: Enable NetBIOS over TCP/IP in the NIC settings if NetBIOS-based checks are required.
- Firewall or security software blocking: Ensure ports 137-139 are allowed or temporarily disable conflicting security software during diagnosis.
- Outdated Windows components: Run Windows Update to ensure NetBIOS-related components are current.
- Corrupted system binaries: Run sfc /scannow and DISM to repair system files if nbtstat or related components fail.
- Malware impersonation: Scan for malware; confirm the executable path is C:\Windows\System32\nbtstat.exe and signed by Microsoft.
Quick Fixes:
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: nbtstat -n to verify local names.
2. If diagnosing a remote host, run: nbtstat -A <IP> or -a <IP>.
3. Verify NetBIOS over TCP/IP is enabled on the NIC.
4. Check firewall settings and ensure NetBIOS ports are allowed.
5. Run a malware scan if results appear suspicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nbtstat.exe?
nbtstat.exe is a Windows utility used to display NetBIOS over TCP/IP statistics and name tables. It helps diagnose legacy network name resolution.
Is nbtstat.exe safe?
Yes, when located in C:\Windows\System32\nbtstat.exe and signed by Microsoft. If found elsewhere or unsigned, treat as suspicious.
How do I run nbtstat.exe?
Open Command Prompt and enter commands like 'nbtstat -n' for local names or 'nbtstat -A <IP>' for a remote host.
Can nbtstat.exe fix network issues?
It helps diagnose NetBIOS-related problems but does not fix underlying network configuration. Use its output to guide configuration changes.
Why does nbtstat.exe show no results?
NetBIOS over TCP/IP may be disabled or the target network does not use NetBIOS names. Check NIC settings and network policies.
Is NetBIOS still relevant in modern networks?
NetBIOS is largely legacy in modern TCP/IP networks. It may be disabled in many environments, but nbtstat remains available for legacy diagnostics.