rdpinput.exe

Remote Desktop Input Processor

Application ProcessSafeRemote Desktop
CPU Usage
0-3%
Memory
5-30 MB
Location
System32
Publisher
Microsoft Corporation

Quick Answer

rdpinput.exe is safe. It's a legitimate Windows component that handles input for Remote Desktop sessions.

Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Windows\System32\rdpinput.exe
Warning
Many processes normal
RDP input processing occurs during Remote Desktop sessions; separate processes may appear for input tasks.
Can I Disable?
✔ NO
rdpinput.exe is essential for Remote Desktop input handling; disabling will break RDC input processing.

What is rdpinput.exe?

rdpinput.exe is the input processor for the Windows Remote Desktop client. It handles keyboard, mouse, and device input during an active RDP session, translating local actions into remote commands and coordinating input state between client and server.

The process runs as part of the Remote Desktop client stack. It coordinates input devices, ensures keystrokes map correctly in the remote session, and interacts with the session host to relay pointer movement and clicks.

Quick Fact: Rdpinput.exe works only when an RDP session is active, relaying local input securely to the remote host.

Types of RDP Input Processes

Is rdpinput.exe Safe?

Yes, rdpinput.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from Microsoft located in C:\Windows\System32 and signed by Microsoft Corporation.

Is rdpinput.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real rdpinput.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may masquerade with the same name.

How to Tell if rdpinput.exe is Legitimate or Malware

  1. File Location: Must be in C:\Windows\System32\rdpinput.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
  2. Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "Microsoft Corporation".
  3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is minimal; high CPU while idle is suspicious. Use Task Manager to verify.
  4. Behavior: Should run only during Remote Desktop sessions. If it runs continuously without RDC, scan for malware.

Red Flags: If rdpinput.exe is located outside System32, lacks a valid digital signature, or runs when no Remote Desktop session is active, scan with antivirus. Watch for similarly named files like "rdpinput32.exe".

Why Is rdpinput.exe Running on My PC?

rdpinput.exe runs to support Remote Desktop connections. It processes keyboard and mouse input, and coordinates device redirection during an active RDP session or when resuming a session.

Reasons it's running:

Can I Disable or Remove rdpinput.exe?

No, you should not disable rdpinput.exe. It is a core component of Remote Desktop input handling.

How to Stop rdpinput.exe

How to Disable Remote Desktop Input Functionality?

Common Problems: RDP Input-Related Issues

If rdpinput.exe is causing input problems during Remote Desktop sessions:

Common Causes & Solutions

Quick Fixes:
1. Open Task Manager and locate rdpinput.exe to confirm what is running.
2. Disconnect and reconnect the Remote Desktop session to reset input state.
3. Update Windows and the Remote Desktop Client to the latest version.
4. Review RDC device and clipboard redirection settings and disable unnecessary devices.
5. Check network latency and peripheral drivers that may affect input.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rdpinput.exe safe?

Yes. The legitimate rdpinput.exe is part of the Windows Remote Desktop client and should be located in C:\Windows\System32 with a legitimate Microsoft signature.

What does rdpinput.exe do?

It processes and relays keyboard and mouse input for Remote Desktop sessions, ensuring accurate transmission of user actions to the remote host.

Why is rdpinput.exe running when I’m not using Remote Desktop?

It may run if you have an RDC client or background service configured to start at login or resume automatically. Otherwise, a malware infection could masquerade as this name.

Can I uninstall rdpinput.exe?

No. rdpinput.exe is a core Windows component. Uninstalling is not supported; disable Remote Desktop if you do not need it.

Where is rdpinput.exe located?

C:\Windows\System32\rdpinput.exe, typically signed by Microsoft. If you find it elsewhere, verify with antivirus.

Why does rdpinput.exe spike CPU?

Typically due to an active remote session with input processing; if you see constant spikes without RDC activity, scan for malware and verify the file.

Related Processes