Quick Answer
slackupdater.exe is safe. It’s Slack’s official updater that runs in the background to detect, download, and apply updates to the Slack Desktop client.
What is slackupdater.exe?
slackupdater.exe is the background updater for the Slack Desktop client. It runs to check for new Slack releases, download updates, and apply them automatically, typically without interrupting your work.
SlackUpdater.exe operates as a light‑weight background service that coordinates update checks, downloads, and patch applications for the Slack app. It ensures you receive features and security fixes without manual updates.
Quick Fact: Slack updates can occur with minimal UI disruption thanks to the updater’s background tasks.
Types of Slack Processes
- Main Slack Process: The primary UI and functionality (slack.exe)
- Updater Process: SlackUpdater.exe handles update checks and installations
- Background Sync: Keeps messages and files synchronized
- System Tray Helper: Tray icon for quick access and status
- Network Service: Background communication with Slack servers
Is slackupdater.exe Safe?
Yes, slackupdater.exe is safe when it’s the legitimate file from Slack downloaded from official sources.
Is slackupdater.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real slackupdater.exe is NOT a virus. Malicious software may mimic its name, so verify location and signature.
How to Tell if slackupdater.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Slack\SlackUpdater.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Slack Technologies\SlackUpdater.exe. Other locations are suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "Slack Technologies, LLC" as signer.
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-8% CPU and 20-60 MB memory when idle. Constant high usage suggests malware.
- Behavior: SlackUpdater.exe should run primarily during Slack update events. If it runs constantly when Slack is closed, scan for malware.
Red Flags: If SlackUpdater.exe is located in unusual folders (Temp, AppData, or System32), runs without Slack, lacks a signature, or uses resources constantly, scan with antivirus software and compare with the official Slack updater.
Why Is slackupdater.exe Running on My PC?
SlackUpdater.exe runs to ensure Slack is kept up to date and functional. It may run on startup to perform checks and apply updates as needed.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Slack Use: If Slack is open, updater may coordinate updates or background sync tasks.
- Background Update Checks: Periodic checks for new Slack releases occur even when Slack isn't actively used.
- Startup Update Checks: Updater can launch at Windows startup to pull down critical updates.
- System Tray and Background Tasks: Updater runs to show status in the system tray and perform non-UI tasks.
- Scheduled Maintenance: Slack may schedule maintenance windows during which updates are prepared and installed.
Can I Disable or Remove slackupdater.exe?
Yes, you can manage or disable slackupdater.exe. You can stop Slack, disable startup, or adjust Slack’s update settings to reduce updater activity.
How to Stop slackupdater.exe
- End Updater Process: Open Task Manager, find slackupdater.exe, right‑click End Task
- Close Slack: Exit Slack completely to stop the updater from running in the background
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Slack or SlackUpdater entry
- Prevent Background Updates: In Slack Settings > Advanced > System, toggle off auto-update or background update options
- Check for Alternatives: If you prefer manual updates, use Slack's check-for-updates option and disable auto updates
How to Uninstall Slack
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Slack → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Slack → Uninstall
- ✔ Reinstall Slack later from slack.com/downloads if needed
Common Problems: Slack Updater Issues
If slackupdater.exe is causing problems or high resource usage:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Frequent or multiple update checks: Limit checks by adjusting Slack's update settings; ensure no conflicting update utilities
- High CPU or memory during updates: Close Slack temporarily, allow updater to complete, reduce open tasks, or disable heavy extensions in Slack
- Updater starting at login: Disable Slack from startup or adjust Task Scheduler entries related to updates
- Failed updates: Check internet, run Slack's update checker manually, ensure disk space, and verify permissions
- Malware masquerade: Scan with reputable antivirus; compare with official Slack updater path and signature
- Outdated Slack version: Update Slack to the latest release to ensure updater compatibility
Quick Fixes:
1. Close Slack and end slackupdater.exe in Task Manager
2. Check Slack's update settings for auto‑update
3. Run Slack updater manually from Slack's Help > Check for Updates
4. Update Slack via official download page
5. Run a system scan for malware if updater behaves unexpectedly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is slackupdater.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate slackupdater.exe from Slack is not a virus. Verify the file is located in C:\Program Files\Slack\SlackUpdater.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Slack Technologies\SlackUpdater.exe and has a valid signature from Slack Technologies, LLC.
Why is slackupdater.exe using so much CPU?
Updater activity often spikes during checks or installations. If it stays high, inspect Slack's update history, check for stuck downloads, or malware masquerading as the updater.
Can I delete slackupdater.exe?
Deleting the updater is not recommended unless you plan to disable auto updates and manage Slack updates manually. Removing it may prevent Slack from updating.
Can I disable slackupdater.exe?
Yes, you can disable auto updates via Slack settings or disable startup entries. If you must, close Slack and end the updater process in Task Manager.
Where is slackupdater.exe located?
Common locations include <code>C:\Program Files\Slack\SlackUpdater.exe</code> or <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Slack Technologies\SlackUpdater.exe</code>. Always verify the digital signature.
How can I reduce Slack updater's resource usage?
Limit update checks, disable automatic background updates, and ensure Slack is up to date. Consider manual updates and reduce the number of Slack plugins or integrations.