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What’s openvpn.exe (OpenVPN Daemon)? Is it safe or a virus?

The openvpn.exe file by Proton AG with the description "OpenVPN Daemon" is a core executable responsible for establishing and managing secure VPN connections using the OpenVPN protocol. It facilitates encrypted communication between the user's device and Proton VPN servers, ensuring privacy, anonymity, and protection of online data. As a background process, it handles tasks like routing traffic through the VPN tunnel, managing encryption keys, and maintaining the secure connection. This executable is a key component of Proton VPN's service, designed to safeguard users from threats such as eavesdropping, data interception, and location tracking while online.

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 openvpn.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes openvpn.exe (OpenVPN Daemon)?

We’ve found Proton AG should be the publisher of openvpn.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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