Is it a Virus?
✔ YES - Safe
Must be located in C:\Program Files\Redshift\redshift.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Redshift\redshift.exe
Warning
Background activity expected
Redshift can run continuously to maintain color profile across display changes
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close the app or disable startup; you can also stop background behavior in settings
What is redshift.exe?
redshift.exe is the Windows executable for the Redshift color-temperature utility. It adjusts your monitor’s tint to match the time of day, reducing blue light and eye strain. It runs in the background and applies profiles based on location and user preferences.
Redshift uses OS display APIs to apply color-shift profiles. It monitors time or location to adjust Kelvin temperature, sending tint settings to the display pipeline without requiring user interaction after setup.
Quick Fact: Redshift originated as a color-temperature helper and remains a lightweight background utility across Windows builds.
Types of Redshift Processes
- Main Process: Redshift GUI and core timer logic (single instance)
- Background Agent: Applies color profiles in real time as display conditions change
- Helper/Launcher: Startup launcher that initializes color profiles on login
Is redshift.exe Safe?
Yes, redshift.exe is safe when it is the legitimate file from the official Redshift software downloaded from the manufacturer or trusted distributors.
Is redshift.exe a Virus or Malware?
How to Tell if redshift.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Redshift\redshift.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Redshift\redshift.exe. Any redshift.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click redshift.exe in File Explorer -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show a valid publisher from "Redshift Software, Inc." or the official signer.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is low CPU and memory; spikes may indicate background tasks or conflicts.
- Behavior: Redshift should apply color profiles after login or when enabled in the app. Unexpected background activity without a user action warrants a check for compromise.
Red Flags: If redshift.exe is located in Temp, AppData, or System folders, lacks a digital signature, or runs when the system is idle with no Redshift configuration, scan with antivirus and verify the official installer.
Why Is redshift.exe Running on My PC?
Redshift.exe runs to apply and maintain color-temperature profiles. It may start at login or when you modify display settings, then adjust the screen tint in response to time and location data.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Profile Enforcement: You have an active color profile or schedule that requires ongoing adjustments
- Startup Auto-Launch: Redshift is configured to start with Windows to apply profiles immediately on login
- Display Change Triggers: Graphics changes or monitor temperature changes trigger reapplication of the profile
- Location/Time Sync: Redshift uses system time or geolocation to determine color temperature, keeping the display consistent with the setting
- Background Profiling: Background tasks ensure color accuracy for multiple displays or profiles when switching inputs
Can I Disable or Remove redshift.exe?
Yes, you can disable redshift.exe. You can turn off automatic color adjustment or uninstall the application if you no longer need it.
How to Stop redshift.exe
- Exit/Disable from Tray: Right-click the Redshift tray icon (if present) and select Exit or Pause
- Disable Startup: Task Manager > Startup tab > Disable Redshift
- Close the App: If the GUI is open, close the window to stop color adjustments
- Block Background: In Windows Settings > Privacy or Background apps, restrict Redshift background activity if available
- Uninstall: Windows Settings > Apps > Redshift > Uninstall or use the official uninstaller
How to Uninstall Redshift
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Redshift → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Redshift → Uninstall
- ✔ Reboot system after uninstall to clear residual services
Common Problems: Color Profile Not Applying or Stuttering
If redshift.exe isn’t applying the color profile or the tint flickers, try the following fixes.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Profile Conflicts: Disable other color/profile tools and rely on Redshift’s profile settings
- Outdated Software: Update Redshift to the latest version from the official source
- Display Driver Conflicts: Update GPU drivers and ensure Windows display settings align with the color profile
- Multiple Monitors: Configure profiles per monitor and ensure correct display is targeted
- Background Permissions: Allow Redshift through firewall or restricted background activity settings
- Incorrect Location/Time: Verify location/time settings in Redshift and recalibrate profiles
Quick Fixes:
1. Open Redshift and verify the active profile
2. Restart Redshift after applying profile changes
3. Update graphics drivers
4. Check for conflicting display utilities and disable them
5. Recalibrate or reset to default profile in Redshift
Frequently Asked Questions
Is redshift.exe safe?
Yes, when downloaded from the official Redshift source and located at C:\Program Files\Redshift\redshift.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Redshift\redshift.exe with a valid signature.
What does redshift.exe do?
It adjusts your monitor’s color temperature to reduce blue light and provide a warmer tint based on time or location settings.
How do I disable redshift.exe?
Disable startup in Task Manager, close the app, or uninstall Redshift from Settings > Apps.
Where is redshift.exe located?
Typically in C:\Program Files\Redshift\redshift.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Redshift\redshift.exe.
Why does redshift.exe use CPU?
Occasional background processing for profile adjustments; persistent high usage may indicate a misconfiguration or conflicting software.
Can I uninstall Redshift?
Yes. Use Windows Settings > Apps > Redshift > Uninstall, then reboot to complete removal.