ssh-client-telemetry.exe

What is ssh-client-telemetry.exe?

ssh-client-telemetry.exe is the Windows OpenSSH telemetry component. It runs in the background to collect usage statistics, connection outcomes, and performance metrics for SSH sessions. Data helps Microsoft and OpenSSH developers improve reliability and diagnostics without user interruption.

This module operates as a lightweight background process that gathers connection events, error codes, session durations, and environment data. Data is encrypted in transit and aggregated for product improvement.

Types of SSH Telemetry Processes

• Telemetry Collector: Gathers SSH session metadata and outcomes
• Uploader: Transmits anonymized data to Microsoft/OpenSSH collectors
• Event Processor: Parses and formats telemetry events
• System Service: Orchestrates telemetry tasks and scheduling

Is ssh-client-telemetry Safe?

Yes, ssh-client-telemetry.exe is safe when obtained from official Microsoft/OpenSSH distributions and installed via Windows features or OpenSSH for Windows.

Is ssh-client-telemetry a Virus or Malware?

The real ssh-client-telemetry.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may masquerade with similar names, so verify signatures and location.

How to Tell if ssh-client-telemetry is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location:: Must be in C:\Windows\System32\OpenSSH\ssh-client-telemetry.exe or C:\Program Files\OpenSSH\ssh-client-telemetry.exe. Any other path is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature:: Right-click the file in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should indicate an identity like "Microsoft Corporation" or an OpenSSH signer.
3. Resource Usage:: Normal idle usage is 0.1-1% CPU and 5-20 MB memory. Persistent high usage is suspicious.
4. Behavior:: Telemetry runs only when SSH client activity occurs or telemetry is enabled. Unexpected network activity or services running without SSH activity warrants deeper checks.

Why Is ssh-client-telemetry Running on My PC?

ssh-client-telemetry runs to collect SSH usage data and support reliability improvements. It may operate in the background while you use OpenSSH on Windows or during diagnostics.

Reasons it's running:

• Active SSH Client Use: You're actively using OpenSSH to connect or manage sessions; telemetry records outcomes and performance.
• Background Telemetry: Telemetry tasks collect events and metrics while the SSH client is idle to build a usage profile.
• Startup Service: A Windows service or scheduled task may start the telemetry component at boot to collect baseline data.
• Diagnostics Opt-in: If diagnostics or data-sharing is enabled, telemetry uploads may occur more frequently.
• Network Synchronization: Telemetry may schedule data uploads to Microsoft/OpenSSH endpoints, especially after SSH sessions end.

Can I Disable or Remove ssh-client-telemetry?

Yes, you can disable ssh-client-telemetry. It won't affect SSH functionality, but telemetry data won't be collected. You can disable via settings or the OpenSSH features.

How to Stop ssh-client-telemetry

• End SSH Sessions: Close all active SSH sessions; telemetry will reduce activity.
• Windows Privacy Settings: Settings → Privacy & security → Diagnostics & feedback → Basic or Off (if available)
• Disable OpenSSH Telemetry Service: Open Services (services.msc) and disable a service named 'SSH Client Telemetry' if present
• Startup Programs: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable 'OpenSSH Client Telemetry' if listed
• Background Apps: Settings → Privacy & security → Background apps → Turn off for 'SSH Client Telemetry' if present

How to Uninstall ssh-client-telemetry

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Optional Features → OpenSSH Client → Uninstall
• ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Programs and Features → OpenSSH Client → Uninstall
• ✔ If you remove OpenSSH, telemetry components are removed with it

Common Problems: SSH Telemetry Resource or Data Flow Issues

If ssh-client-telemetry is not behaving as expected, review common causes and fixes for data collection, network uploads, or policy-related blocks.

Common Causes & Solutions

• Telemetry not sending data: Check network connectivity, ensure telemetry endpoints are reachable, and verify privacy settings permit data upload.
• Telemetry process using too much CPU: Idle telemetry should be minimal; verify no rogue startup tasks or misconfigured diagnostics.
• Data privacy settings blocked: Review Windows Diagnostics & feedback settings and adjust to allow usage data if you consent.
• Unsigned or relocated executable: Verify path: C:\Windows\System32\OpenSSH\ssh-client-telemetry.exe; re-install the OpenSSH client if needed.
• Telemetry failing after Windows update: Reinstall OpenSSH components or apply latest Windows updates; check for OpenSSH telemetry updates.
• Background service not starting: Ensure the OpenSSH Telemetry service is enabled and its startup type is set to Automatic.

Related Processes