skype-sync-exe

Skype Desktop Client - Synchronization Engine

Background Service/SyncSafeCommunication

CPU Usage

1-8%

Memory

40-120 MB

Location

Program Files\Microsoft\Skype for Desktop

Publisher

Microsoft Corporation

Quick Answer

skype-sync-exe is safe. It's part of the Skype desktop client and handles cloud synchronization of messages, contacts, and presence across devices.

Is it a Virus?

NO - Safe

Must be located in C:\Program Files\Microsoft\Skype for Desktop or C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Skype for Desktop

Warning

Mostly normal

The sync engine runs in the background to keep data current across devices

Can I Disable?

YES

Close Skype or disable background sync in Settings to stop activity

What is skype-sync-exe?

skype-sync-exe is the background synchronization component of the Skype desktop client. It runs alongside the main Skype process to keep chats, contacts, presence, and settings synchronized across devices and platforms. By design, it performs network requests in the background to ensure new messages and status updates appear promptly, even when the app is minimized.

This process operates within Skype’s multi‑process architecture, coordinating encrypted data exchange with Microsoft servers. It handles device‑to‑device chat history, contact presence, and settings sync while remaining lightweight and throttling network usage when idle.

Quick Fact: Skype’s sync engine keeps your conversations up to date across all devices in near real time, even when the main window is minimized.

Types of Skype Processes

Launcher/UI Process: Main Skype window and user interface (1 instance)
Sync Engine Process: Handles cloud synchronization of messages, contacts, and presence
Renderer Process: Renders chat windows and media content
Media/Voice Engine Process: Audio/video rendering and codecs
Update/Background Service: Background update checks and data refresh
Utility/Notification Process: System tray notifications and background tasks

Is skype-sync-exe Safe?

Yes, skype-sync-exe is safe when it is the legitimate file from Microsoft/Skype and located in the official Skype installation folder.

Is skype-sync-exe a Virus or Malware?

The real skype-sync-exe is NOT a virus. However, malware may masquerade with similar names to mislead users.

How to Tell if skype-sync-exe is Legitimate or Malware

File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\Microsoft\Skype for Desktop\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft\Skype for Desktop\. Any skype-sync-exe elsewhere is suspicious.
Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Task Manager or File Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show a signature from "Microsoft Corporation" or "Skype Technologies S.A."
Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-8% CPU and 40-120 MB memory. Unusually high usage when Skype is idle is suspicious.
Behavior: The component should only run when Skype is installed and running or when background sync is enabled.

Red Flags: If skype-sync-exe is located in unusual folders (Temp, AppData), runs when Skype isn't open, lacks a valid digital signature, or uses resources constantly, scan with antivirus software. Watch for similarly named files like "SkypeSync.exe" or "SkypeSyncService.exe" from untrusted sources.

Why Is skype-sync-exe Running on My PC?

skype-sync-exe runs to coordinate data exchange between the Skype client and Microsoft servers. It may run whenever Skype is installed, signed in, and configured to sync data across devices.

Reasons it's running:

Active Skype Sessions: You are signed in and actively using Skype; the sync engine pushes new messages and presence updates.
Background Sync Enabled: Skype is configured to keep chats, contacts, and settings synchronized across devices in the background.
Startup Launch: Skype starts on Windows login or when you start the Skype application, which initializes the sync component.
Cross-Device Sync: Signing in on another device triggers synchronization to keep data consistent across platforms.
Notifications and Updates: The sync engine also handles presence updates and notification data to keep you informed.

Can I Disable or Remove skype-sync-exe?

Yes, you can disable skype-sync-exe. It's safe to close Skype or to turn off background syncing if you prefer a leaner client.

How to Stop skype-sync-exe

End Background Tasks: In Skype Settings > Privacy > Sync, disable "Continue running background tasks" or similar.
Close Skype: Close all Skype windows to stop sync activity.
End The Process: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), locate skype-sync-exe or skype.exe, right-click → End Task
Prevent Startup: Task Manager > Startup tab > Disable Skype or Skype for Desktop.
Pause Auto-Sync: In Skype Settings, disable cross-device sync and background updates.

How to Uninstall Skype

✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Skype → Uninstall
✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Skype → Uninstall
✔ Consider alternative communications apps: Teams, Zoom, Slack

Common Problems: Skype Sync

If skype-sync-exe is misbehaving, try the following common fixes to restore normal synchronization.

Common Causes & Solutions

Poor network connection: Check network stability, switch to wired if possible, or pause sync during heavy network usage.
Too many active chats and media: Close some chats or limit media-heavy conversations; clear cache if available.
Outdated Skype version: Update Skype to the latest version: Windows Settings → Apps.
Corrupted cache data: Sign out and back in, or reinstall Skype to reset cache.
Firewall or antivirus blocking: Ensure Skype is allowed through firewall and antivirus; add SkypeSync.exe if required.
Background syncing disabled: Enable background sync in Settings → Privacy → Sync.

Quick Fixes:
1. Open Skype and go to Settings → Privacy → Sync, ensure background sync is enabled
2. Restart Skype and sign back in
3. Check Internet connectivity and firewall allowances
4. Update Skype to the latest version
5. Clear Skype cache or reinstall if problems persist

Frequently Asked Questions

Is skype-sync-exe a virus?

No, skype-sync-exe is a legitimate Skype component. Verify it's in C:\Program Files\Microsoft\Skype for Desktop and has a valid Microsoft digital signature.

Why is skype-sync-exe using so much CPU?

CPU spikes usually occur during heavy syncing, large chat histories, or during video calls; check Task Manager to identify the process and pause sync if needed.

Can I disable skype-sync-exe?

Yes. You can disable background sync in Skype settings or exit the application; full removal requires uninstalling Skype.

How do I fix Skype not syncing across devices?

Make sure you're signed into the same account, enable Sync in Settings, and ensure a stable network. Restart Skype or re-sign in if syncing fails.

How do I uninstall Skype?

Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Skype → Uninstall. You can reinstall later from skype.com/download.

Why does Skype start on Windows startup?

Skype is often configured to launch at startup to keep you connected; disable startup in Task Manager > Startup, or in Skype Settings.