nis-srv.exe

Network Information Service (NIS) Server

System ProcessSafeNetworking Service
CPU Usage
2-15%
Memory
60-180 MB
Location
C:\Program Files\NetInfo\nis-srv\nis-srv.exe
Publisher
Red Hat, Inc.

Quick Answer

nis-srv is a legitimate NIS server component. It centralizes user, host, and map data for network clients using ypserv-like protocols and distributes updated maps to registered slaves.

Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\NetInfo\nis-srv\nis-srv.exe
Can I Disable?
✔ YES - But expect disrupted authentication and network lookups
Disabling nis-srv will stop NIS map services for clients and can break logins/searches.
Is Uninstall Safe?
Depends on environment; ensure backups and alternative directory service in place
Uninstalling may break NIS functionality for domain clients

What is nis-srv.exe?

nis-srv is the executable component of a Network Information Service (NIS) server that centralizes user, host, netgroup, and passwd-like maps for network clients. It runs as a background service, answering ypserv/ypbind requests, distributing maps to registered clients and supporting consistent authentication across systems. This service is essential in environments that rely on centralized identities and host naming.

nis-srv operates with a master/slave map architecture, serving maps such as passwd, hosts, and group to clients via the NIS protocol. It relies on map databases that can be updated centrally and replicated, with appropriate firewall and rpc-bind configurations.

Quick Fact: NIS was designed to simplify network management in mixed UNIX/Linux environments by providing a single source of truth for identities and host information.

NIS Server Components

Is nis-srv Safe?

Yes, nis-srv is safe when obtained from trusted vendors and deployed with proper access controls and secure configuration.

Is nis-srv a Virus or Malware?

The real nis-srv is not a virus. Malware can disguise itself with similar names; verify the path and signature.

How to Tell if nis-srv is Legitimate or Malware

  1. File Location:: Must be in C:\Program Files\NetInfo\nis-srv\nis-srv.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\NetInfo\nis-srv\nis-srv.exe. Any nis-srv.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
  2. Digital Signature:: Right-click the file in Explorer -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show signer such as NetInfo Solutions Ltd..
  3. Resource Usage:: Normal usage for nis-srv is 2-15% CPU per core and 60-180 MB memory when active.
  4. Behavior:: nis-srv should run as a service only when network clients request maps; persistent background execution with no network activity is suspicious.

Red Flags: If nis-srv.exe is found outside: C:\Program Files\NetInfo\nis-srv\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\NetInfo\nis-srv\, runs when no network service is expected, has no valid signature, or uses excessive resources, scan your system.

Why Is nis-srv Running on My PC?

nis-srv runs as a background service to provide centralized directory information to network clients. It orchestrates map distribution and reply handling for NIS protocol requests.

Reasons it's running:

Can I Disable or Remove nis-srv?

Yes, you can disable nis-srv. Stopping it will disrupt network identity lookups for clients until it is re-enabled. Uninstalling will remove the service and may require alternative directory services.

How to Stop nis-srv

How to Uninstall nis-srv

Common Problems: NIS Server Performance or Availability

If nis-srv is consuming excessive resources or failing to respond, you may need to inspect maps, replication, and network configuration.

Common Causes & Solutions

Quick Fixes:
1. Quick Fixes:
2. 1. Check which maps are being requested with client logs or monitoring
3. 2. Verify master/slave relationships and map checksums
4. 3. Review firewall rules for NIS ports
5. 4. Ensure maps are up to date on master
6. 5. Restart nis-srv service if needed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is nis-srv?

nis-srv is a legitimate NIS server component when obtained from trusted sources and configured with proper access controls. Verify the path C:\Program Files\NetInfo\nis-srv\nis-srv.exe and a valid signature.

Is nis-srv safe to run on Windows?

nis-srv is safe to run in networks that rely on centralized identity management. Always verify vendor and signature before deployment.

Can I uninstall nis-srv?

Yes, you can uninstall NetInfo NIS Server via Settings -> Apps. This will remove the service and data unless you back up your maps.

How do I restart nis-srv?

You can restart the service from Services.msc or using net stop/net start commands. In some environments use a Management Console to control the service.

What happens if I disable nis-srv?

Disabling nis-srv will stop map lookups for clients and may cause authentication failures for network users until re-enabled.

How do I update NIS maps?

To update maps, modify the master maps and trigger a replication; then verify slave servers receive the changes and clients fetch updated data.

Related Processes