Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\ScreenConnect Client\screenconnect.exe
Warning
Many processes normal
Each session may spawn separate processes; background components handle remote control, chat, and file transfer
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close sessions or exit the client; disabling startup will prevent automatic connections
What is screenconnect.exe?
screenconnect.exe is the primary executable for the ScreenConnect remote support client. It enables secure, on-demand remote sessions between an operator and a user, handling screen sharing, chat, file transfer, and remote control. The client may spawn multiple processes to isolate UI, session data, and background services.
ScreenConnect uses a multi-process client architecture to separate the user interface, session viewer, and background service. This design improves stability and security by sandboxing session traffic and keeping control paths isolated from the UI.
Quick Fact: ScreenConnect relies on a lightweight agent that connects to a relay/server, enabling inbound and outbound connections with encryption.
Types of ScreenConnect Processes
- Client UI Process: Main user interface and session management
- Viewer/Session Process: Renders remote screen and input for active sessions
- Windows Service: Background connectivity and heartbeat to ScreenConnect servers
- Updater Process: Checks for and applies updates to the ScreenConnect client
- Utilities Helper: File transfer, chat, and session utilities
- Tray/Background Agent: Keeps the client responsive in the system tray
Is screenconnect.exe Safe?
Yes, screenconnect.exe is safe when it is the legitimate ScreenConnect client from ConnectWise and located in the expected program folders.
Is screenconnect.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real screenconnect.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may mimic names, so verify location and signature.
How to Tell if screenconnect.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\ScreenConnect Client\screenconnect.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\ScreenConnect Client\screenconnect.exe. Any screenconnect.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: In the file's Properties, check Digital Signatures. Should show a valid signature from "ScreenConnect, LLC" or "ConnectWise, LLC".
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-10% CPU per session and 50-200 MB total memory. Constant high usage without a session is suspicious.
- Behavior: ScreenConnect should start when you open the client or have an active remote session. Unprompted background launches may indicate malware.
Red Flags: If screenconnect.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp, AppData\Roaming, or System32), runs when not requested, has no valid signature, or uses excessive resources constantly, scan with antivirus software. Look for similarly named files such as "screenconnects.exe".
Why Is screenconnect.exe Running on My PC?
screenconnect.exe runs to establish and maintain remote support sessions. It may stay active for ongoing remote assistance, maintenance, and file transfers, even when no session is visible on screen.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Remote Session: A connected support session keeps the client active to relay video, audio, and control commands.
- Background Connectivity: The agent maintains a heartbeat to the ScreenConnect server to accept incoming session requests.
- Automatic Updates: The updater service may run to check for and apply updates to the client.
- Startup and Persistence: The client may be configured to start with Windows to ensure quick access for IT support.
- File Transfer and Utilities: Background components handle file transfers, chat, and session utilities during remote sessions.
Can I Disable or Remove screenconnect.exe?
Yes, you can disable screenconnect.exe. It's safe to close or uninstall if you don't use ScreenConnect. Disabling startup may prevent remote sessions from connecting.
How to Stop screenconnect.exe
- End Active Sessions: In the ScreenConnect client, disconnect or End Session to stop activity.
- Exit Client: Use File → Exit or click the tray icon and Quit to close the application.
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable ScreenConnect Client.
- Stop Background Service: Open Services (services.msc), locate ScreenConnect Service, and stop the service; set Startup type to Manual/Disabled.
- Prevent Background Run: In ScreenConnect Settings, disable automatic startup and background operation options if available.
How to Uninstall ScreenConnect Client
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → ScreenConnect Client → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → ScreenConnect Client → Uninstall
- ✔ Restart the computer if prompted after uninstall
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If screenconnect.exe is consuming excessive resources:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Active remote sessions with large shared screens: Close or limit the number of active sessions; reduce resolution or disable video if not needed
- Background file transfer or chat activity: Pause or cancel ongoing transfers; ensure the partner is not repeatedly initiating transfers
- Outdated ScreenConnect client: Update to the latest version via ScreenConnect client or administrator • Check for updates
- Malicious or misconfigured add-ons: Disable or remove suspicious extensions or plugins; reset to default settings
- Network throttling or VPN routing: Adjust network settings or test outside VPN; ensure relay servers are reachable
- Hardware acceleration issues: Try disabling hardware acceleration in ScreenConnect or system display settings
Quick Fixes:
1. Open ScreenConnect Task Manager view and identify high-usage sessions or features
2. Pause or end unnecessary file transfers and hide dual-screen streams
3. Update the client: ScreenConnect → Check for updates
4. Disable unnecessary extensions or plugins in the client
5. Restart the ScreenConnect client to apply changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is screenconnect.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate screenconnect.exe from ScreenConnect/ConnectWise is not a virus. Verify location: typically in C:\Program Files\ScreenConnect Client, and check digital signatures from ScreenConnect, LLC or ConnectWise, LLC.
Why is screenconnect.exe running on startup?
ScreenConnect may be configured to start on login to enable quick remote sessions. If you don’t use ScreenConnect, disable startup in Task Manager → Startup or uninstall the client.
How do I uninstall ScreenConnect Client?
Use Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → ScreenConnect Client → Uninstall, or Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → ScreenConnect Client.
How can I reduce ScreenConnect's resource usage?
Close unused sessions, limit file transfers, disable nonessential features, update to the latest version, and consider turning off hardware acceleration if available.
Where is screenconnect.exe located?
Typically located at C:\Program Files\ScreenConnect Client\screenconnect.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\ScreenConnect Client\screenconnect.exe. If found elsewhere, exercise caution and scan for malware.
Can ScreenConnect be used without my knowledge?
Only if a user account or admin initiates or schedules a remote session. If you did not authorize, review installed software, check for suspicious activity, and run a security scan.