Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\Splashtop\Streamer\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\Splashtop\Streamer\
Warning
Many processes normal
Splashtop can spawn separate processes for sessions, display, and backup tasks.
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close sessions or exit the streamer; disable startup to stop auto-launch
What is splashtop.exe?
Splashtop Streamer is the host component of Splashtop's remote desktop solution. It runs on the remote or local machine to establish secure connections, transmit screen data, and manage remote control sessions across networks.
It uses a lightweight service architecture with encryption, optimized codecs, and a background task manager to handle screen sharing, file transfer, and wake-on-demand features.
Quick Fact: Splashtop Streamer is designed for low-latency remote access, often outperforming traditional protocols on bandwidth-limited links.
Types of Splashtop Processes
- Streamer Service: Core remote access service handling connections and session control
- Viewer/Client Process: Renders remote desktop on the client device
- Connection Manager: Handles authentication and session routing
- Update Service: Keeps the Streamer up to date with the latest features
- Notification Service: Delivers session alerts and status updates
- Background Tasks: Background syncing and keep-alive maintenance
Is splashtop.exe Safe?
Yes, splashtop.exe is safe when obtained from official Splashtop sources and installed from the legitimate installer.
Is splashtop.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real splashtop.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may masquerade as related files; always verify the path and signature.
How to Tell if splashtop.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location:: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Splashtop\Streamer\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\Splashtop\Streamer\. Any splashtop.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature:: Right-click the file in File Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "Splashtop, Inc." as signer.
- Resource Usage:: Normal usage is 1-12% CPU per session, 50-300 MB memory. Constant high usage when idle is suspicious.
- Behavior:: The service should start when a session is initiated or on user login. Unexpected background activity without Splashtop session warrants investigation.
Red Flags: If splashtop.exe is located in unusual folders (Temp, AppData, System32), runs without user interaction, lacks a signature, or uses abnormal resources constantly, scan with antivirus and verify with Splashtop support. Look for similarly named files.
Why Is splashtop.exe Running on My PC?
splashtop.exe runs to support remote access, screen sharing, or background keep-alives. It may stay active for quick reconnects or to host a remote session.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Remote Session: You are connected to a remote computer; the streamer must run to render its screen and receive input.
- Background Session Keep-Alive: The process may stay active to maintain a ready state for quick reconnects without full re-authentication.
- System Startup: Splashtop can be configured to launch at Windows startup for immediate access.
- Network Listener: The service binds to ports for secure tunnel and media streaming, enabling connections from Splashtop clients.
- File Transfer/Remote Features: Background features like file transfer, chat, or remote printing keep components loaded.
Can I Disable or Remove splashtop.exe?
Yes, you can disable splashtop.exe. It's safe to stop the service when not in use, and you can uninstall Splashtop if you no longer need it.
How to Stop splashtop.exe
- End Active Sessions: In the Splashtop Streamer UI, end any active remote sessions and sign out if available.
- Close the Streamer: Exit the Splashtop Streamer application from the taskbar or system tray.
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Splashtop Streamer.
- Stop Background Tasks: In Windows Services, locate Splashtop Streamer service and set Startup type to Disabled.
- Uninstall: Windows Settings → Apps → Splashtop Streamer → Uninstall.
How to Uninstall Splashtop
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Splashtop Streamer → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features → Splashtop Streamer → Uninstall
- ✔ After uninstall, remove residual folders: C:\Program Files\Splashtop\Streamer and C:\ProgramData\Splashtop
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If splashtop.exe is consuming excessive resources during remote sessions or idle, try the following.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Active Remote Session with High-Resolution Streaming: Lower the remote resolution or frame rate in the Splashtop client; reduce quality to save bandwidth.
- Background Features Enabled: Disable file transfer or remote printing when not needed; review settings in the Streamer app.
- Outdated Software: Update both host and client to the latest Splashtop version.
- Network Latency: Check network stability; use wired connections or configure QoS if available.
- Antivirus Interference: Whitelisting splashtop.exe and related components in antivirus software.
- hung background process: Restart the Splashtop Streamer service and clear any stale sessions.
Quick Fixes:
1. Quick Fixes:
2. 1. Exit idle remote sessions and reduce streaming quality in the Splashtop client
3. Update Splashtop to the latest version
4. Restart Splashtop Streamer service via Windows Services
5. Whitelist splashtop.exe in antivirus
6. Check network connection and switch to wired if possible
Frequently Asked Questions
Is splashtop.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate splashtop.exe from Splashtop, Inc. is not a virus. Verify the path: C:\Program Files\Splashtop\Streamer\ and ensure a valid digital signature.
Why is splashtop.exe using so much CPU?
CPU usage increases with high-resolution remote streaming, large frame rates, or ongoing file transfers. Lower the quality settings or close idle sessions; ensure software is up to date.
Can I delete splashtop.exe?
You can uninstall Splashtop Streamer if you no longer need remote access. Uninstall via Windows Settings or Control Panel; data locally stored by Splashtop may be removed unless you specify otherwise.
Can I disable splashtop.exe?
Yes. Disable startup, end active sessions, and quit the streamer to stop the process. See task manager and service settings for details.
Why is splashtop.exe running at startup?
If you configured Splashtop to launch at login, it will start automatically. You can disable startup in Task Manager or through the Streamer settings.
How do I reduce Splashtop's memory usage?
Lower the remote resolution, disable unnecessary features, close unused sessions, and keep software up to date. Use Memory Saver if available.