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What’s al.exe (Assembly Linker command line tool)? Is it safe or a virus?

al.exe, the Assembly Linker command-line tool by Microsoft, is used to create assemblies and modules in the .NET Framework.

It generates a file that combines compiled code (typically Intermediate Language files) and other resources such as resource files or metadata into a single assembly or module.

This process allows developers to produce multi-file assemblies, satellite assemblies for localization, or link resources like images or strings to an application.

By controlling assembly attributes and manifest content, al.exe helps developers manage versioning, dependencies, and deployment in .NET applications. It is commonly used in build processes within .NET development environments.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about al.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes al.exe (Assembly Linker command line tool)?

We’ve found Microsoft Corporation should be the publisher of al.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: March 31, 2025

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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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