What is Browser_broker.exe?

A lot of Windows files are a mystery to most users as they can barely tell what processes are running in the background. This causes these files and their functions to be a source of confusion amongst most users. Cybercriminals know this, and so they try to copy the Windows files’ names with the intention of fooling unsuspecting users. Another reason why they do this is to prevent their malicious files from being detected by anti-malware tools. One example of such files that confuse users is the Browser_broker.exe.

So, what is Browser_broker.exe? This legitimate file is a component of the Microsoft Windows OS that runs alongside MS Edge every time the browser starts. The file is located in “C: \Windows\System32” folder.

Is Browser_broker.exe a Virus?

In essence, Browser_broker.exe shouldn’t cause any problems and is completely safe to run on your computer as it doesn’t use a large number of the system’s resources. However, sometimes Microsoft Firewall might raise a red flag about Browser_broker.exe and try to block the outgoing connection of the file. At times, stopping the task is impossible even for users with administrative rights.

As previously mentioned, some malicious programs might disguise themselves as Browser_broker.exe, and when this happens, you need to check the file location to tell whether it’s a threat or not. To confirm the location:

1. Start by right-clicking on Browser­­_broker.
2. Select “Open file location.”
3. Check if the location is the System32 folder.
4. If that’s not the location opened, it means your computer has a malware infection and needs to be cleaned.

It’s highly recommended that you protect your computer against any Browser_broker.exe-related issues just to be on the safe side. Follow these simple tips:

• Use a reputable security tool and make sure that it’s always up-to-date.
• Avoid opening or clicking on links from suspicious emails.
• Don’t click on anything when you’re redirected to a dubious website.
• Use strong passwords for all your accounts.

What Does Browser_broker.exe Do?

If the Browser_broker.exe on your system is a malware entity, you can notice some strange behavior. Here are the main signs and symptoms that you’ll observe on your computer:

• A sudden spike in CPU usage – when this happens, the fans start running fast, and the computer starts lagging
• Software malfunctioning and crashing
• An increased amount of annoying ads that redirect you to dubious websites
• High use of memory
• Applications and new files install without the user’s permission

It’s not guaranteed that you’re going to notice any of these signs and symptoms. That’s why its highly recommended that you use a robust anti-malware tool.

Should Browser_broker.exe Be Removed?

Since the file is from Microsoft, removing it might cause the Microsoft Edge browser to stop working, so removing Browser_broker.exe is not recommended. However, at times, Browser_broker.exe might affect user experience. All “.exe” files are executable and, in some cases, might harm your computer because that’s how hackers disguise the malware code.

If you feel that the process is malicious, you need to remove it. Follow these steps to avoid any serious problems on your computer:

1. Perform a full system scan.
2. If the file is malicious, you’ll be alerted.
3. The program will also fix the Windows Registry and other altered files.
4. To safely remove the Browser_broker.exe files, go to “Control Panel.”
5. Open “Uninstall a Program.”
6. Select the file you want to remove.
7. Click “Okay” to confirm.
8. Alternatively, you can ask for help from Windows Support.

How Else Can One Fix Browser_broker.exe Problems?

Fixing Browser_broker.exe problems requires that you clean your system for a healthy working environment. To do so, you need to do a Disk Cleanup, run a System File Check, and do a General Computer Cleanup. Below is a short procedure for each one of these processes:

Disk Cleanup

This process deletes all temporary files from your computer. Here’s what you should do:

1. Simultaneously press letter Q and hit the Windows key on your keyboard.
2. Enter “cmd” into the search box that appears.
3. Right-click on the Command Prompt.
4. Select “Run as admin.”
5. Enter “cleanmgr” in the command prompt.
6. Hit “”

System File Checker

This process examines Windows files and restores any damaged files. Follow the instructions below:

1. Type “sfc/scannow” into the command prompt.
2. Hit “Enter”.

General Computer Cleanup

This process uninstalls any process that you no longer need. Here’s how you do a general computer cleanup:

1. Open Task Manager.
2. Go to the “Startup” tab.
3. Check which apps are required on startup.
4. Choose a program that you want to disable and right-click on it.
5. Click on Disable.

Conclusion

One has to first check how the Browser_broker.exe works in their computer to decide whether it’s a virus that should be removed or whether it’s a legit file running alongside a trusted application. More often than not, the file shouldn’t cause any problems. Keep in mind that sometimes, even legitimate files may cause problems, especially if there’s a faulty installation of the operating system. If you are having too many error prompts and no longer wish to run on your system, use a different browser such as Chrome, Opera, Firefox, Safari, or Internet Explorer.