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What’s PAD.PackageUpgrader.exe (Package Upgrader)? Is it safe or a virus?

PAD.PackageUpgrader.exe is a background process associated with Microsoft Power Automate for desktop. Its primary function is to manage the upgrade of internal components within Power Automate, ensuring that the application remains up to date with the latest features and security patches.​

This process is part of the suite of executables included with Power Automate for desktop, where it is listed among other components like PAD.MacroRecorder.exe and PAD.ProcessInsight.Recorder.exe .

The presence of PAD.PackageUpgrader.exe on your system indicates that you have Power Automate for desktop installed, and it plays a role in maintaining the application's integrity during updates.

Microsoft Power Automate is a tool that lets you automate repetitive tasks and workflows across apps and services. It helps streamline processes like sending notifications, moving files, or collecting data, saving time and reducing manual effort.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about PAD.PackageUpgrader.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes PAD.PackageUpgrader.exe (Package Upgrader)?

We’ve found Microsoft Corporation should be the publisher of PAD.PackageUpgrader.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: May 1, 2025

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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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