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What’s wusvc.exe (Host Process for Windows Services)? Is it safe or a virus?

The "wusvc.exe" process, associated with the Microsoft Windows Publisher, represents the Windows Update Service. It is responsible for identifying, downloading, and installing updates for the Windows operating system and other Microsoft software. As a core part of Windows' maintenance, it ensures that your system remains secure, stable, and up to date with the latest features, patches, and fixes. Running in the background, it can periodically check for updates and apply them, either automatically or based on user settings. This process is essential for maintaining the reliability and security of a Windows environment but may also consume system resources during updates.

Researched by Laura @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about wusvc.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes wusvc.exe (Host Process for Windows Services)?

We’ve found Microsoft Windows Publisher should be the publisher of wusvc.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 10, 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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