zoho_assist.exe

What is zoho_assist.exe?

zoho_assist.exe is the Windows executable for the Zoho Assist client, a remote support and unattended access tool. It facilitates secure connections to client machines, supports file transfer, chat, and remote control during a session. The client runs as multiple processes to manage sessions efficiently.

Zoho Assist uses a multi-process model: a primary UI process, session-specific renderers, and background services for updates, telemetry, and connectivity, enabling stable remote support with sandboxed components.

Types of Zoho Assist Processes

• Client UI Process: Main Zoho Assist window and user interactions (1 instance)
• Remote Session Process: Each active support session runs its own process
• Background Updater: Handles software updates and health checks
• Telemetry/Logging: Collects usage data and logs for diagnostics
• Helper/Service: Background services to maintain connectivity
• Clipboard/File Transfer: Components responsible for clipboard and file transfer

Is zoho_assist.exe Safe?

Yes, zoho_assist.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from Zoho downloaded from official sources (zoho.com/assist or Zoho's installer).

Is zoho_assist.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real zoho_assist.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware sometimes disguises itself with similar names to trick users.

How to Tell if zoho_assist.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\Zoho\ZohoAssist\zoho_assist.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Zoho\ZohoAssist\zoho_assist.exe. Any zoho_assist.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click the process in Task Manager → Open file location → Right-click zoho_assist.exe → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "Zoho Corporation".
3. Resource Usage: Normal usage is 2-20% CPU per session, 100-500 MB total memory. Extremely high usage when idle is suspicious.
4. Behavior: Zoho Assist should only run when a session is active or the client UI is open. Constant background activity without sessions may indicate malware.

Why Is zoho_assist.exe Running on My PC?

zoho_assist.exe runs when you start Zoho Assist or when a remote support session is in progress, and may also run as a background agent for connectivity and updates.

Reasons it's running:

• Active Remote Session: You are connected to a remote machine or a session is awaiting client connection; each session runs a dedicated process.
• Background Agent: Zoho Assist maintains background services to keep sessions alive, enable file transfer, and handle telemetry even when the UI is minimized.
• Startup Launch: Zoho Assist can be configured to start with Windows, launching the client automatically at logon.
• Update/Health Checks: Background updater checks for new versions and performs health diagnostics to ensure reliability.
• Policy-Scheduled Tasks: Scheduled tasks or auto-actions (like unattended access) can trigger the client to run or wake up.

Can I Disable or Remove zoho_assist.exe?

Yes, you can disable zoho_assist.exe. It's safe to close Zoho Assist when not in use, and you can uninstall it completely if you no longer need remote support.

How to Stop zoho_assist.exe

• End Active Sessions: In the Zoho Assist client, terminate any active remote sessions.
• Close Client: Click the X button or use Alt+F4 to close the Zoho Assist window.
• Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Zoho Assist
• Stop Background Tasks: In Windows Services, stop any Zoho Assist-related services if present.
• Prevent Auto-Start in Settings: Zoho Assist settings → General → Uncheck 'Start with Windows' or similar.

How to Uninstall Zoho Assist

• ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Zoho Assist → Uninstall
• ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Zoho Assist → Uninstall
• ✔ Restart the computer and optionally install an alternative remote support solution

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If zoho_assist.exe is consuming excessive resources:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Active Remote Session with Heavy Data Transfer: Limit file transfer size, pause heavy sessions, or end the remote session.
• Background Updater Running Too Often: Check Zoho Assist settings to adjust auto-update behavior or disable automatic updates.
• Multiple Concurrent Sessions: Only one active session at a time; close other sessions to free resources.
• Outdated Software: Update Zoho Assist to latest version from official site.
• Conflicting Extensions or Add-ons: Disable problematic add-ons that interact with Zoho Assist.
• Malware or PUP: Run a full system antivirus scan and ensure you downloaded Zoho Assist from Zoho's official site.

Related Processes