protonvpn-service.exe

What is protonvpn-service.exe?

protonvpn-service.exe is the Windows background service that coordinates ProtonVPN connections. It manages the virtual network adapter, tunnels (WireGuard/OpenVPN), and session state, staying active to ensure traffic is routed through ProtonVPN even when the GUI is closed.

The ProtonVPN service runs as a Windows service, handling tunnel establishment, driver control, and session management. It communicates with the ProtonVPN client to start/stop VPN, apply profile settings, and maintain secure routing for all traffic.

Types of ProtonVPN Processes

• Main Service: The ProtonVPN background service that initializes connections and monitors VPN state
• Tunnel Driver: Component that creates and manages the virtual network adapter for VPN traffic
• Connection Watchdog: Background task that detects drops and triggers automatic reconnection
• Credential Sync: Module responsible for securely handling user credentials with the Proton account
• Update Helper: Subcomponent that applies updates to the VPN service and related components

Is protonvpn-service.exe Safe?

Yes, protonvpn-service.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from ProtonVPN downloaded from the official source or installed via the ProtonVPN app.

Is protonvpn-service.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real protonvpn-service.exe is not a virus. Malware may mimic names. Always verify the digital signature from PROTON AG and ensure the file is located under C:\\Program Files\\ProtonVPN\\protonvpn-service.exe.

How to Tell if protonvpn-service.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\\Program Files\\ProtonVPN\\protonvpn-service.exe or C:\\Program Files (x86)\\ProtonVPN\\protonvpn-service.exe. Any protonvpn-service.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file > Properties > Digital Signatures. Should show "PROTON AG" with a valid certificate.
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is 0-4% CPU when idle; 40-120 MB memory. Constant high usage when idle is suspicious.
4. Behavior: The service should run in the background as a Windows service named 'ProtonVPN Service' without spawning a visible GUI.

Why Is protonvpn-service.exe Running on My PC?

The ProtonVPN service runs to maintain active VPN tunnels, apply profile settings, and coordinate with the GUI to ensure traffic is routed securely. It may start at boot or when you initiate VPN.

Reasons it's running:

• Active VPN Connection: The service runs to sustain an active ProtonVPN tunnel and monitor its health, even if the GUI is closed.
• Background Reconnection: It monitors network changes and automatically reconnects if the VPN drops, maintaining continuous protection.
• Network Driver Management: Manages the virtual adapter and tunnel drivers required to route traffic through the VPN.
• Startup Launch: Configured to start with Windows so VPN is ready when the system boots or user logs in.
• Credential and Policy Sync: Syncs credentials and policy settings with the ProtonVPN account for seamless authentication and policy application.

Can I Disable or Remove protonvpn-service.exe?

Yes, you can disable protonvpn-service.exe. Stopping the service will disable VPN connectivity through ProtonVPN until reapplied; you can also uninstall ProtonVPN entirely if you no longer need it.

How to Stop protonvpn-service.exe

• End the Service via Services: Open Services (services.msc), locate 'ProtonVPN Service', and click Stop. Set Startup type to Disabled if you don't want it to start automatically.
• Use PowerShell: Open PowerShell as Administrator and run: Stop-Service -Name ProtonVPNService; Set-Service -Name ProtonVPNService -StartupType Disabled
• Disable Auto-Start: Open Task Manager > Startup tab, disable any ProtonVPN startup entries if present.
• Prevent Background Running: In ProtonVPN settings, turn off 'Continue running background apps when ProtonVPN is closed' if available.
• Revoke or Remove Driver: After stopping the service, you may uninstall ProtonVPN to remove drivers and residual components.

How to Uninstall ProtonVPN

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → ProtonVPN → Uninstall
• ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features → ProtonVPN → Uninstall
• ✔ Restart the computer after uninstall to ensure all service components are removed

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If protonvpn-service.exe is consuming excessive resources:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Active VPN Connection with Many Routes: Limit active routes or reduce the number of simultaneously connected devices; ensure the latest ProtonVPN client is installed.
• Background Driver Conflicts: Disable other VPN software and drivers that may conflict with ProtonVPN; uninstall conflicting packages.
• Outdated ProtonVPN Version: Update ProtonVPN to the latest version from the official site or app.
• Malicious Extensions or Programs: Run a full system malware scan; remove any suspicious software and verify protonvpn-service.exe origin.
• Browser or App Daemons: Check ProtonVPN settings for any background daemons and disable unnecessary ones.
• Hardware Acceleration or Network Stack: Disable hardware acceleration in system settings if conflicts occur; update network drivers.

Related Processes