ZeroTier One Network Virtualization
zerotier.exe is safe. It runs the ZeroTier One client for virtual networking; multiple processes may appear for tunnels and overlays, but it’s a legitimate component.
zerotier.exe is the Windows executable for ZeroTier One, a software-defined virtual network that forms secure, peer-to-peer overlays. It manages membership, relay candidates, and route discovery, enabling devices to join private networks regardless of underlying topology. It runs continuously to sustain connections even when idle.
ZeroTier uses a lightweight daemon to manage virtual networks, peer connections, and route discovery. It runs in user space and communicates with centralized controllers to form secure overlays across devices and networks.
Quick Fact: ZeroTier started as an open-source project and provides a turnkey overlay network that works across routers and NATs.
Yes, zerotier.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from ZeroTier, usually downloaded from zerotier.com or installed via official channels.
The real zerotier.exe is NOT a virus. Malware may masquerade with similar names to mislead users.
C:\Program Files\ZeroTier\One\ZeroTier One.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\ZeroTier\One\ZeroTier One.exe. Any zerotier.exe elsewhere is suspicious.Red Flags: If zerotier.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp, AppData, or System32), runs without user action, lacks a valid signature, or uses constant high resources, scan with antivirus. Be wary of similarly-named files like "zer0tier.exe" or "zt-one.exe".
zerotier.exe runs to maintain and operate ZeroTier virtual networks, manage peer connections, and keep overlay routing functional.
Reasons it's running:
Yes, you can disable zerotier.exe. It is safe to stop the ZeroTier service or uninstall it if you no longer need virtual networking.
If zerotier.exe is consuming excessive resources:
Quick Fixes:
1. Open Task Manager and End ZeroTier processes specific to active networks
2. Restart the ZeroTier One daemon from Services or Task Manager
3. Update to the latest version from zerotier.com
4. Disable non-critical networks in the ZeroTier Central dashboard
5. Reboot the computer to apply changes
It is the ZeroTier One daemon/executable that manages virtual networks via the ZeroTier overlay fabric.
No, the legitimate zerotier.exe is a normal component of the ZeroTier client; ensure it is installed from zerotier.com or an official vendor.
Check the file path (C:\Program Files\ZeroTier\One\ZeroTier One.exe) and verify the digital signature shows ZeroTier, Inc.
Yes, you can disable the ZeroTier service or stop it; networks will be unavailable until the service is re-enabled.
If you configured ZeroTier to start with Windows, it will launch at startup; disable it in Task Manager → Startup.
Uninstall via Windows Settings → Apps, or Control Panel; reboot afterward to ensure all components are removed.