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What’s agent.exe (InstallShield Update Service Agent)? Is it safe or a virus?

Agent.exe by Macrovision Corporation is the InstallShield Update Service Agent, which is a software component responsible for managing updates for InstallShield-installed programs. It runs in the background and periodically checks for updates to the software installed on the system. When updates are available, it prompts the user to install them to ensure that the software is up to date and operating efficiently. The service helps in keeping the software secure by patching any potential vulnerabilities and also improves the overall performance of the installed applications.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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A Trojan is a harmful software that pretends to be a legitimate program or file to deceive users into downloading it. It can steal personal information, damage files, or give hackers control over the infected device.

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More about agent.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes agent.exe (InstallShield Update Service Agent)?

We’ve found Macrovision Corporation should be the publisher of agent.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: June 18, 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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