Quick Answer
purevpn.exe is safe. It's the official PureVPN Windows client executable that manages VPN connections, tunnels traffic through an encrypted VPN, and provides connection control from the UI.
Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\PureVPN\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\PureVPN\
Warning
Many processes may run during an active VPN session
PureVPN uses separate processes for UI, tunnels, and DNS handling
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close the VPN or disable auto-connect from the app; you can also stop the background service
What is purevpn.exe?
PureVPN for Windows provides a graphical client that lets you connect to PureVPN servers, select locations and protocols, and manage the VPN tunnel. When active, purevpn.exe creates a virtual network adapter and routes traffic through the encrypted tunnel, handling DNS, kill-switch, and auto-reconnect settings.
The process launches the VPN session, negotiates with the PureVPN servers using TLS, configures routing, and starts the tunnel driver. It also spawns auxiliary threads for status monitoring, logs, and network health checks.
Quick Fact: PureVPN's Windows client includes a virtual network adapter and a tunnel driver that routes traffic when connected.
Types of PureVPN Processes
- Main UI Process: User interface and connection control (single instance)
- Tunnel/Driver Process: VPN tunnel handling and networking
- DNS Helper Process: DNS leak protection and resolution tasks
- Background Service: Keeps the VPN alive and handles reconnects
- Update Helper: Manages check for updates and installation prompts
- Logging/Telemetry: Captures optional logs and crash reports
Is purevpn.exe Safe?
Yes, purevpn.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from PureVPN downloaded from official sources (purevpn.com or the official app store).
Is purevpn.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real purevpn.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may disguise itself with similar names. Always verify path and signature.
How to Tell if purevpn.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\PureVPN\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\PureVPN\. Any other path is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the executable in File Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show signer as "PureVPN" or the associated company.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage varies. During VPN activity expect higher network and CPU usage; idle should be low.
- Behavior: PureVPN should only run when you start or connect via the app. Unknown background activity warrants investigation.
Red Flags: If purevpn.exe is located in unusual folders (Temp, AppData, System32), runs when the VPN is not active, lacks a valid signature, or uses unusual network ports, scan with antivirus.
Why Is purevpn.exe Running on My PC?
PureVPN's Windows client runs to establish and maintain VPN sessions. It starts when you launch the app or when you opt to auto-connect, enabling the encrypted tunnel and traffic routing.
Reasons it's running:
- Active VPN Use: You're connected to a PureVPN server; the tunnel is maintained for all traffic.
- Background Services: DNS protection, kill switch, and protocol keep-alives run in the background.
- Auto-Connect: The app may be configured to connect automatically on startup or network changes.
- System Proxy Changes: The VPN client may modify system proxy settings to route traffic.
- Startup Program: PureVPN is set to launch at Windows startup, loading the tunnel driver early.
Can I Disable or Remove purevpn.exe?
Yes, you can disable purevpn.exe. It's safe to disconnect or quit the app, and you can uninstall the PureVPN client if you no longer need it.
How to Stop purevpn.exe
- Disconnect VPN: Open PureVPN and click Disconnect, then Quit.
- End via Task Manager: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), locate purevpn.exe, right-click → End Task.
- Disable Auto-Connect: In PureVPN settings, turn off Auto Start or Auto Connect.
- Prevent Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable PureVPN.
- Stop Background Services: In Windows Services, set PureVPN Service to Manual or Stop.
How to Uninstall PureVPN
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → PureVPN → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features → PureVPN → Uninstall
- ✔ Reboot after uninstallation
Common Problems: VPN Connection Issues
If purevpn.exe is having trouble connecting or causing performance issues:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Server overload or far location: Switch to a nearby server, try UDP protocol.
- DNS leaks or misconfig: Enable DNS protection in settings and flush DNS.
- Firewall or antivirus blocking: Allow PureVPN in firewall and disable conflicting security.
- Outdated client: Update PureVPN to latest version.
- Active background processes: Close unnecessary apps or switch to a lighter server.
- IPv6 traffic: Disable IPv6 or enable IPv6 leak protection.
Quick Fixes:
1. Open PureVPN → Disconnect if connected, then Quit
2. Restart PureVPN
3. Check server availability and switch servers
4. Update the client to the latest version
5. Disable IPv6 in network settings if causing issues
Frequently Asked Questions
Is purevpn.exe safe?
Yes, when obtained from official PureVPN sources (purevpn.com) and located in C:\Program Files\PureVPN. Check digital signature.
Why is purevpn.exe using CPU?
CPU usage can rise during connection establishment, encryption, or streaming. If it remains high when idle, check for server issues, background tasks, or malware impersonation.
Can I uninstall PureVPN?
Yes. Use Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → PureVPN → Uninstall, or Control Panel → Programs and Features → Uninstall. Data may persist if you use cloud sync.
How do I disable auto-connect in PureVPN?
Open the PureVPN app, navigate to Settings, and turn off Auto Connect or Enable Kill Switch as needed.
Does PureVPN log my activity?
PureVPN states it minimizes logging and offers a no-logs policy for traffic data; refer to their privacy policy for details.
Why can't I connect to a VPN server?
Check network connectivity, server status, protocol selection (UDP/TCP), firewall rules, and ensure the app is up to date. Try a different server location.