noscript.exe

What is noscript.exe?

noscript.exe is the executable component of NoScript Security Suite. It enforces per-site script permissions, blocking JavaScript, Java, and other active content by default. This helps prevent drive-by downloads and common browser-based attacks while you browse.

Noscript.exe operates as part of the security extension to manage per-site policies, ensuring only trusted scripts run. It communicates with the browser to apply allowlists and protect against malicious content in real time.

Types of NoScript Processes

• Browser Extension Process: Core NoScript components running within the browser to enforce script rules
• Policy Manager: Manages allowlists/deny lists for sites and resources
• Update Helper: Checks for rule and list updates to stay current with threats
• UI Interaction: Handles user interactions for whitelists and permissions
• Telemetry/Privacy Helper: Optional data submission for feature improvements (if enabled)
• Background Script Blocker: Intercepts and blocks script requests in the page lifecycle

Is noscript.exe Safe?

Yes, noscript.exe is safe when it comes from the official NoScript Security Suite distribution and is installed from a trusted source.

Is noscript.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real noscript.exe is NOT a virus. Malware sometimes mirrors names to deceive, so verify the file location and signature.

How to Tell if noscript.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\NoScript Security Suite\noscript.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\NoScript Security Suite\noscript.exe. Any noscript.exe outside these paths is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click noscript.exe -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show a valid signature from "NoScript Project" or related publisher.
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is light, typically 1-8% CPU with 40-120 MB memory depending on activity.
4. Behavior: NoScript should only run when the browser with the extension is active. Unrelated background activity is a red flag.

Why Is noscript.exe Running on My PC?

Noscript.exe runs to enforce per-site script permissions. It may initialize on browser start, block unsolicited scripts, and update rule lists to protect you as you browse.

Reasons it's running:

• Active Browser Use: You're actively browsing with a NoScript-enabled browser; the extension enforces per-site script permissions on loaded pages.
• Background Script Enforcement: NoScript blocks or prompts for scripts in the background as you navigate to new sites, requiring occasional checks.
• Browser Startup Initialization: When the browser starts, NoScript components initialize to apply current rules and any per-site settings.
• Policy and Whitelist Synchronization: Changes to allowed sites or updated blocklists trigger noscript.exe to apply new policies across sessions.
• Update Checks and Protection: NoScript periodically checks for script rule updates and vulnerability data to stay current against evolving threats.

Can I Disable or Remove noscript.exe?

Yes, you can disable NoScript components. Within your browser, you can disable the NoScript extension or adjust per-site permissions. You can also uninstall NoScript Security Suite from your browser or system.

How to Stop noscript.exe

• Disable NoScript Extension: In your browser, go to extensions/add-ons and disable NoScript Security Suite.
• Close Browser: Close all browser windows to ensure NoScript stops enforcing rules.
• End Related Processes: Open Task Manager and end noscript-related processes if they remain after browser close.
• Prevent Startup: Ensure the browser does not auto-start NoScript components on system startup (if applicable).
• Stop Background Apps: In NoScript settings, disable any options that run background checks or listeners if present.

How to Uninstall NoScript Security Suite

• ✔ Firefox: Menu ≡ Add-ons → Extensions → NoScript Security Suite → Remove
• ✔ Chrome (if installed as a separate extension): Menu ≡ More Tools ≡ Extensions → NoScript Security Suite → Remove
• ✔ Restart the browser and remove residual profile files if needed

Common Problems: Script Blocking or Performance

If noscript.exe or the NoScript extension causes issues with websites or browser performance:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Overly aggressive script blocking blocks essential site functionality: Add trusted sites to the allowlist for essential scripts or resources.
• High CPU due to many loaded pages: Close unused tabs and review per-site permissions to reduce blocking on background tabs.
• Conflicts with other security extensions: Temporarily disable other security add-ons to identify conflicts and adjust settings.
• Outdated NoScript version: Update to the latest NoScript version to ensure compatibility with modern sites.
• Blocked essential site features without user notice: Use the NoScript UI to allow necessary scripts on affected sites and reload.
• Profile data corruption or misconfiguration: Reset NoScript settings or reinstall NoScript to revert to a clean state.

Related Processes