What is pcsync.exe?
pcsync.exe is the foreground/UI and background agent for the PCSYNCH file synchronization utility. It runs as a small service that watches designated folders, detects changes, and initiates secure transfers to a remote or cloud destination based on your configuration.
PCSync uses a local watcher service and a network sync engine to propagate changes. It employs delta transfers, conflict resolution, and encrypted channels to ensure data integrity during synchronization.
Quick Fact: PCSYNCH supports bidirectional sync and can resume transfers after network interruptions.
Types of PCSYNCH Processes
- UI Process: User interface for configuring sync jobs and monitoring status (single instance)
- Watcher/Sync Engine: Monitors folders and coordinates transfers (background process)
- Network/Transport: Handles encrypted data transmission to the destination
- Background Service: Runs periodic sync checks and conflict resolution
- Notification Helper: Sends alerts on sync status or errors
- Update/Installer: Handles updates and patch deployments
Is pcsync.exe Safe?
Yes, pcsync.exe is safe when it's the legitimate PCSYNCH executable from the official PCSYNCH distribution downloaded from official sources.
Is pcsync.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real pcsync.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can masquerade with similar names. Always verify the file location and signature.
How to Tell if pcsync.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\PCSync\pcsync.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\PCSync\pcsync.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the process in Task Manager -> Open file location -> Right-click pcsync.exe -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show "PCSync LLC".
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-12% CPU and 100-300 MB memory during typical activity. Constant high usage may indicate malware.
- Behavior: Should run when syncing tasks are active. Persistent background activity with no user action can be suspicious.
Red Flags: If pcsync.exe is located outside the Program Files folder, lacks a valid digital signature, or shows unexpected network activity, scan with antivirus software. Watch for similarly named files like "pcsync64.exe".
Why Is pcsync.exe Running on My PC?
pcsync.exe runs when you have PCSYNCH configured to sync folders, or when its background service is actively processing pending transfers.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Sync Jobs: There are configured sync tasks actively transferring or monitoring files.
- Background Scans: The watcher detects changes in watched directories even without user interaction.
- Startup or Login: PCSYNCH may start at Windows startup or when you log in.
- Cloud/Remote Sync: Syncing with cloud storage or remote destinations triggers background activity.
- Scheduled Tasks: A scheduled or automated sync job runs at defined intervals.
Can I Disable or Remove pcsync.exe?
Yes, you can disable pcsync.exe. Pausing or disabling sync tasks is safe, and you can uninstall PCSYNCH if you no longer need it.
How to Stop pcsync.exe
- Pause Sync Jobs: Open the PCSYNCH UI and pause individual sync tasks or disable automatic startup.
- Close UI: Close the PCSYNCH window to stop the UI process; background watchers may continue briefly.
- End Background Services: Open Task Manager, locate pcsync.exe or PCSYNCH services, and End Task/Stop
- Disable Startup: Task Manager > Startup tab > Disable PCSYNCH
- Uninstall: Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall PCSYNCH
How to Uninstall PCSYNCH
- ✔ Windows Settings -> Apps -> Apps & Features -> PCSYNCH -> Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel -> Programs -> Uninstall a program -> PCSYNCH -> Uninstall
- ✔ Restart your PC after uninstall
Common Problems: Sync Delays, High CPU, or Missing Files
If pcsync.exe is not behaving as expected, check these common issues and fixes.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Stuck or stalled sync queue: Open PCSYNCH UI and review queued items; restart the sync job if needed.
- Network interruptions: Ensure stable connectivity; retry transfers or enable retry settings in PCSYNCH.
- Conflicts in file versions: Resolve conflicts in the UI; configure conflict rules to auto-resolve if desired.
- Authentication failures: Re-authenticate cloud storage or remote destination in PCSYNCH settings.
- Outdated PCSYNCH: Update to latest PCSYNCH version from official source.
- Insufficient permissions: Run PCSYNCH with appropriate user rights or adjust share permissions.
Quick Fixes:
1. Open PCSYNCH UI and pause all sync tasks to stabilize.
2. Check network status and reconnect if needed.
3. Verify watched folders exist and have correct permissions.
4. Restart PCSYNCH services or UI.
5. Update to latest version and reconfigure sync tasks if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pcsync.exe safe?
Yes, when downloaded from the official PCSYNCH site and located in C:\Program Files\PCSync\pcsync.exe with a valid digital signature from PCSYNCH LLC.
Why is pcsync.exe using CPU?
CPU usage typically increases during active file syncing, scanning, or conflict resolution. Check PCSYNCH UI to identify active tasks and pause if needed.
Can I delete pcsync.exe?
You can uninstall PCSYNCH from Windows Settings > Apps if you no longer need it; data is managed by your sync tasks.
Can I disable pcsync.exe?
Yes, pause or disable the sync tasks, or disable startup in Task Manager. You can also uninstall PCSYNCH.
Why are there many pcsync processes?
PCSYNCH may spawn multiple processes for watcher, UI, and network components to isolate tasks and improve reliability.
How do I fix missing synced files?
Check sync logs in PCSYNCH UI, verify source and destination folders, and re-run the affected sync job.