Skip to content
LogoTechnipages
LogoTechnipages
  • Topics
        • Android
        • Browsers
        • Gaming
        • Hardware
        • Internet
        • iPhone
        • Linux
        • macOS
        • Office
        • Reviews
        • Software
        • Windows
        • Definitions
        • All Recent Posts
  • Product Reviews
  • About

What is msmpeng.exe?

Mel HawthorneJanuary 30, 2020 Comments (0)
Windows 10

MSMPENG.EXE is a process created and used by Windows Defender – a built-in virus protection program in any Windows computer. While it can be turned off and/or replaced with other security programs, it is by default enabled, and can, therefore, create this process, even without the user’s knowledge.

You can find the process in your task manager window if it is active. This is not a harmful process, but it can get resource-intensive and eat up a lot of the available CPU power. This will usually only happen if it is actively performing a scan and looking for malware (although the process itself can appear even if that isn’t the case).

The only time this process is anything to worry about is if it appears when Windows Defender is turned off. If you think yours is turned off and the process appears, first confirm that it hasn’t been re-activated, for example by a Windows update. If it really is turned off, the process may indicate the presence of malware, as other programs could try to masquerade as it. Running a scan with the virus protection of your choice should be able to identify the issue.

Tip: Don’t end the process if you don’t have to. Doing so can affect how well or reliably your Windows Defender works, which can, in turn, compromise your security and make you vulnerable to spy- or malware.

Categories: Software

Author Mel Hawthorne

You Might Also Like

  • fix caa70007 microsoft teams

    Troubleshooting Microsoft Teams Error caa70007

    Madalina DinitaSoftware
  • MS Teams Header

    Microsoft Teams: How to Disable Animations

    Madalina DinitaSoftware
  • microsoft teams Enable Logging For Meeting Diagnostics

    Teams: Enable Logging for Meeting Diagnostics

    Madalina DinitaSoftware
  • stream microsoft teams to facebook live

    How to Stream Microsoft Teams to Facebook Live

    Madalina DinitaSoftware

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

How to Enable Dark Mode on WhatsApp Updated Methods for 2023

How to Send HD Pictures and Videos on WhatsApp

How to Share Files Using Google Nearby Share

How to Share Files Using Google Nearby Share

Android Battery Will Not Charge Fix

Android Battery Will Not Charge Fix

Turning on Triple Touch Zoom on Android

Turning on Triple Touch Zoom on Android

How to Connect Outlook 2023 to Gmail

How to Connect Outlook 2023 to Gmail

profile pic

The Experts Behind Technipages

My name is Mitch Bartlett. I've been working in technology for over 20 years in a wide range of tech jobs from Tech Support to Software Testing. I started this site as a technical guide for myself and it has grown into what I hope is a useful reference for all.

Learn More

technipages logo white
linkedin icon

Technipages is part of Guiding Tech Media, a leading digital media publisher focused on helping people figure out technology. Learn more about our mission and team here.

© 2023 Guiding Tech Media All Rights Reserved

  • About Us
  • Contact
  • Legal & Privacy

© 2023 Guiding Tech Media All Rights Reserved

Information from your device can be used to personalize your ad experience.
Do not sell my personal information.