Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\Splashtop\splashtop-srv.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Splashtop\splashtop-srv.exe
Can I Disable?
✔ YES - But you will lose remote access, auto-start, and background heartbeat
Disabling splashtop-srv will stop remote access and unattended sessions
What is splashtop-srv.exe?
splashtop-srv is the Windows service executable that powers Splashtop's remote access server. It runs in the background, handling session initiation, encryption, and data routing between host machines and remote clients, even when the main UI is closed.
Splashtop-srv operates as a dedicated Windows service that negotiates sessions, enforces encryption, and routes remote desktop data. It separates control from the user interface for reliability and security.
Quick Fact: Splashtop-srv is designed as a persistent Windows service to maintain a stable listening state for remote connections.
Types of Splashtop-Srv Processes
- Service Process: Main Splashtop Server service handling connections
- Worker Thread: Background threads for session management
- Heartbeat Manager: Keeps-alive and keeps connections healthy
- Session Handler: Negotiates and maintains active sessions
- Network Listener: Listens on port for incoming remote requests
- Security Module: Encryption and auth checks for sessions
Is splashtop-srv Safe?
Yes, splashtop-srv is safe when downloaded from official Splashtop sources (splashtop.com) and signed by Splashtop Inc.
Is splashtop-srv a Virus or Malware?
The legitimate splashtop-srv.exe is NOT a virus. Malicious software may mimic file names to evade detection.
How to Tell if splashtop-srv is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location:: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Splashtop\splashtop-srv.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Splashtop\splashtop-srv.exe. Any other location is suspicious.
- Digital Signature:: Right-click the file in File Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "Splashtop, Inc.".
- Resource Usage:: Normal usage is 1-15% CPU and 50-350 MB memory per active session. Constant high usage outside sessions is suspicious.
- Behavior:: The service should start with Windows and remain idle until a remote session is initiated. Continuous background activity when idle may indicate malware.
Red Flags: If splashtop-srv.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp, AppData, or System32), runs when idle, has no digital signature, or uses unusual CPU consistently, scan with antivirus. Look for misnamed files like "splashtop-srv.dll" or folders from untrusted sources.
Why Is splashtop-srv Running on My PC?
splashtop-srv runs as a background Windows service to support Splashtop remote connections. It starts when the system boots and stays active to accept incoming remote sessions or keep-alive heartbeats.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Remote Sessions: There are ongoing or recently initiated Splashtop sessions requiring the server component to stay active.
- Background Listener: The service maintains a network listener to accept inbound remote connection requests.
- Automatic Start: The Splashtop Server service is configured to start automatically on Windows startup.
- Keep-Alive Heartbeats: Regular heartbeats ensure the host remains reachable by remote clients even when idle.
- Desktop Client Activity: Launching the Splashtop Desktop client or a remote session triggers the server to run and manage the session.
Can I Disable or Remove splashtop-srv?
Yes, you can disable splashtop-srv. Disabling will stop remote access and unattended sessions until you re-enable the service or reinstall the client.
How to Stop splashtop-srv
- Stop the Splashtop Server service: Open Services (services.msc), locate "Splashtop Server" and click Stop.
- Disable startup: In Services, set Startup type to Disabled to prevent automatic start on boot.
- Uninstall Splashtop components: Open Settings → Apps → Apps & Features, select Splashtop, and Uninstall. Reboot if prompted.
- Alternative options: If you only need client access, you can disable unattended features via the Splashtop app settings.
How to Uninstall Splashtop Server
- ✔ Windows Settings -> Apps -> Apps & Features -> Splashtop -> Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel -> Programs -> Uninstall a program -> Splashtop -> Uninstall
- ✔ Reinstall using official Splashtop installer if needed
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If splashtop-srv is consuming excessive resources:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Too Many Active Sessions: Close unnecessary remote sessions or limit concurrent connections in the Splashtop client.
- Background Clients: Uninstall unused Splashtop clients or disable unattended features that run in background.
- Outdated Software: Update Splashtop to the latest version to benefit from performance fixes.
- Malware or PUP: Run a reputable antivirus/malware scan; verify the installer source and digital signature.
- High Network Activity: Review network usage; disable unnecessary network features in the Splashtop settings.
- Hardware Acceleration: Disable hardware acceleration in Splashtop settings or Windows display settings if issues occur.
Quick Fixes:
1. Quick Fixes:
2. 1. Check active remote sessions in the Splashtop client and close unnecessary sessions
3. 2. Update Splashtop to the latest version
4. 3. Disable background features not in use (Settings > General > Background) if available
5. 4. Review startup items to ensure only legitimate Splashtop components run on boot
6. 5. Run a full malware scan if abnormal activity persists
Frequently Asked Questions
Is splashtop-srv a virus?
Yes. The legitimate splashtop-srv.exe is part of the Splashtop Server service. Ensure the file is located at C:\Program Files\Splashtop\splashtop-srv.exe and signed by Splashtop Inc.
What does splashtop-srv do?
Splashtop-srv runs as a Windows service. It is responsible for listening for remote connections and managing sessions; you typically interact via the Splashtop Streamer or client apps.
Can I uninstall splashtop-srv?
Yes, you can uninstall Splashtop Server via Settings > Apps > Splashtop > Uninstall. Removing the server stops remote access until reinstalled.
Can I disable splashtop-srv?
Yes, you can disable splashtop-srv to stop listening for remote connections, but you will lose unattended access and remote support capabilities.
Why does splashtop-srv start at boot?
Splashtop Server can start at Windows startup if configured. If you want to disable this, turn off startup in Services or in the Splashtop settings.
Why are there multiple Splashtop processes?
Splashtop uses a server-side architecture with a dedicated service to maintain connections, while streamers and proxies handle client-side interactions.