What is rslsync.exe?
rslsync.exe is the principal executable for Resilio Sync, enabling peer-to-peer folder synchronization across devices. It runs as a background service or with the GUI, coordinating transfers and metadata among connected peers.
Resilio Sync uses a distributed P2P model to mirror chosen folders. The engine handles block-based transfers, chunking, and directory metadata while maintaining a secure hash-based verification across peers.
Quick Fact: Resilio Sync leverages BitTorrent technology to enable direct device-to-device syncing without centralized servers.
Types of Resilio Sync Processes
- Sync Engine Process: Core daemon that handles file transfer and metadata management
- Discovery/Peer Process: Peer discovery and DHT/LAN/UPnP communications
- UI/Control Process: Graphical interface or web UI for configuration
- Background Task Process: Scheduled scans, health checks, and auto-queueing
- Web/API Server: Local API for scripting and integrations (if enabled)
Is rslsync.exe Safe?
Yes, rslsync.exe is safe when it’s the legitimate file from Resilio Sync downloaded from official sources (resiliosync.com or the official distribution via GitHub).
Is rslsync.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real rslsync.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware may masquerade with similar names. Verify the file path and publisher.
How to Tell if rslsync.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Resilio Sync\rslsync.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Resilio Sync\rslsync.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click rslsync.exe in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show publisher "Resilio Inc." or similar.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 2-15% CPU and 100-350 MB RAM during active sync; persistent high usage with no folders configured is suspicious.
- Behavior: rslsync.exe should only run when Sync is configured and you have shares; persistent background activity with no shares can indicate a problem.
Red Flags: If rslsync.exe is located in unusual folders (Temp, AppData), runs without user action, has no valid signature, or uses constant network bandwidth, scan with antivirus and verify integrity. Beware of similarly named files.
Why Is rslsync.exe Running on My PC?
rslsync.exe runs to manage and coordinate folder synchronization with connected devices, peers, and shared folders. It can run in background or as a service depending on setup.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Syncing: You have one or more shared folders actively syncing with other devices.
- Background Scans: Automatic folder scans and change detection keep shares up to date.
- Startup Service: Resilio Sync runs as a startup service to preserve sync state across reboots.
- Peer Discovery: Local network discovery and DHT/relay help locate peers for transfer.
- Web/API Access: Local API or UI access can keep the process alive for management tasks.
Can I Disable or Remove rslsync.exe?
Yes, you can disable rslsync.exe. You can pause syncing or remove Resilio Sync entirely if you no longer need it.
How to Stop rslsync.exe
- Pause Sync: Use the Resilio Sync UI to pause or stop sharing.
- Exit UI: Close the UI; the engine will run only if auto-start is enabled.
- Disable Startup: Windows Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Resilio Sync
- Stop Services: If installed as a Windows service, stop it from Services.msc
- Uninstall: Control Panel → Programs and Features → Uninstall Resilio Sync
How to Uninstall Resilio Sync
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Resilio Sync → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Resilio Sync → Uninstall
- ✔ If using a portable or manual install, delete the rslsync.exe and the Config folder
Common Problems: High CPU or Disk Activity
If rslsync.exe is consuming excessive resources or causing issues:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Too Many Active Shares: Limit the number of folders synced; disable unnecessary shares in the UI
- Large File Transfers: Pause or limit bandwidth for large transfers; schedule heavy syncs during off-peak hours
- Blocked Ports or Network: Ensure required ports are open (e.g., 3838 by default) and peers are reachable
- Outdated Software: Update to latest Resilio Sync version from official site
- Conflicting Antivirus: Whitelist rslsync.exe or disable interference; check real-time protection settings
- Corrupted Config: Back up and reset settings; re-create shares in UI and re-add folders
Quick Fixes:
1. Open Resilio Sync UI, pause all transfers
2. Check for errors in the Activity tab
3. Verify shares and folders; re-add if necessary
4. Update to latest version from resilio.com
5. Restart rslsync.exe or the computer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rslsync.exe safe?
Yes, rslsync.exe is the legitimate Resilio Sync engine located under C:\Program Files\Resilio Sync\rslsync.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Resilio Sync\rslsync.exe with a valid signature from Resilio Inc.
Why is rslsync.exe using CPU when nothing is syncing?
Background checks, indexing, or a stuck transfer can cause CPU usage. Open the Resilio Sync UI to view activity, pause nonessential shares, or restart the engine.
Can I disable rslsync.exe at startup?
Yes. Disable the startup entry in Windows Task Manager → Startup, or stop the Resilio Sync service if installed as a service.
How do I uninstall Resilio Sync?
Use Windows Settings → Apps → Resilio Sync → Uninstall. You can also remove the program folder for a clean wipe.
What ports does Resilio Sync use?
Defaults include TCP 3838 for peer connections; ensure firewall allows this port or configure in the UI.
How can I limit bandwidth for rslsync.exe?
In Resilio Sync UI, go to Settings → Network and set upload/download limits or schedule transfers.