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What’s ScanAdapter.exe (Realtek Scan Adapter Utility)? Is it safe or a virus?

ScanAdapter.exe by Realtek Semiconductor Corp., described as "Realtek Scan Adapter Utility," is a legitimate system utility associated with Realtek network adapters.

Its primary purpose is to support network scanning and diagnostics, facilitating the detection, configuration, and management of network connections on computers equipped with Realtek hardware.

This executable ensures proper communication between the operating system and the Realtek network adapter, helping maintain stable and efficient network performance.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about ScanAdapter.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes ScanAdapter.exe (Realtek Scan Adapter Utility)?

We’ve found Realtek Semiconductor Corp. should be the publisher of ScanAdapter.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 26, 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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