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What’s tapctl.exe (Utility to manipulate TUN/TAP adapters on Windows)? Is it safe or a virus?

The tapctl.exe file is a component of the NordVPN software developed by NordVPN S.A.

It's responsible for controlling and managing virtual network adapters used by the NordVPN application. When the user connects to a VPN server, tapctl.exe helps create a secure tunnel between the user's device and the VPN server, ensuring that internet traffic is encrypted and routed through the VPN server.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about tapctl.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes tapctl.exe (Utility to manipulate TUN/TAP adapters on Windows)?

We’ve found nordvpn s.a. should be the publisher of tapctl.exe.

How do we know? Our SpyShelter cybersecurity labs focuses on monitoring different types of Windows PC executables and their behaviors for our popular SpyShelter Antispyware software. Learn more about us, and how our cybersecurity team studies Windows PC executables/processes.

What does it mean if someone is the publisher of a PC .exe (executable or process)?

The publisher of an executable is the entity responsible for its distribution and authenticity. Most processes/executables on your PC should be signed. The signature on the executable should have been verified through a third party whose job it is to make sure the entity is who it says it is. Find an unsigned executable? You should consider scanning any completely unsigned .exe on your PC.

Last updated: February 29, 2024

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Why should you trust us?

Our team at SpyShelter has been studying Windows PC executables for over 15 years, to help fight against spyware, malware, and other threats. SpyShelter has been featured in publications like The Register, PC Magazine, and many others. Now we’re working to share free, actionable, and easy to understand information about Windows executables (processes) with the world, to help as many people as possible keep their devices safe. Learn more about us on our "About SpyShelter” page.

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