Discovering an unknown .dll file on your computer can raise questions about its function and safety. One such file that might have piqued your interest is ext_funfeedr.dll. This file acts as a Browser Helper Object (BHO) and is intended to provide extra functionality for the Internet Explorer browser. Users may come across this file if they’ve installed a browser add-on named FunFeedr, which is not created by Microsoft but by an unknown developer.
The file ext_funfeedr.dll typically resides in a subfolder within the user’s profile folder, commonly found at C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Local\ext_funfeedr\. When examining the file size, it appears to be 918,016 bytes when assessed on diverse Windows operating systems like Windows 7, 10, or 11.
A noticeable attribute of BHOs, like ext_funfeedr.dll, is their ability to run automatically upon the launch of Internet Explorer, as they are coupled with your web browser. It’s significant because BHOs can alter or monitor the browser’s behavior without the direct consent of the user. While some BHOs are legit and useful, this characteristic makes them a common tool for potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) such as adware and spyware.
The obscurity of ext_funfeedr.dll’s origins and lack of visible program window raises the question of its legitimacy and potential as a threat. It’s not classified as a Windows system file, and personal firewalls don’t typically block BHOs since they identify them as part of the browser itself.
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Is Ext_funfeedr.dll Safe to Run? Can It Be a Virus or Malware?
The safety of ext_funfeedr.dll can be somewhat contentious. Since it’s not recognized as a necessary Windows file and owes its creation to an unknown entity, the file might invoke suspicion. Part of what ext_funfeedr.dll does is alter Internet Explorer’s behavior, which could be benign, such as adding new features, or nefarious, such as redirecting searches or displaying ads.
The technical security rating based on online analyses is 65% dangerous. This relatively high rating results from the potential for misuse by malicious software pretending to be a legitimate BHO. It often happens that adware and spyware pose as genuine files to fly under the radar of antivirus scanners. Some antivirus programs might not flag ext_funfeedr.dll as malware, leaving users unprotected against its possible harmful activities.
How to Fix Ext_funfeedr.dll Related Issues?
If you encounter issues with ext_funfeedr.dll or suspect it to be malware, there are steps you can take:
- Scan for Malware: Use an updated antivirus or anti-malware tool to scan your system. Sophisticated software like Malwarebytes can detect and remove intrusive adware associated with ext_funfeedr.dll.
- Remove PUPs: Uninstall any suspicious or unwanted programs from your PC. Go to “Control Panel” > “Programs” > “Programs and Features” and look for programs you don’t recall installing deliberately.
- Reset Browser Settings: If ext_funfeedr.dll has altered your browser settings, reset Internet Explorer to its default configuration. You can do this through the browser’s “Internet options.”
- Restore System: If the problem started recently, restore your system to a previous state using System Restore.
- Manual Removal: You may choose to manually remove the file if you’re confident it is not related to any legitimate program you use. Remember to back up important data before proceeding.
- Monitor System Performance: An often overlooked but essential tool is the built-in “Resource Monitor” (resmon.exe). It helps identify any unusual processes running on your system that might be related to ext_funfeedr.dll.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re unsure about any steps or the nature of the file, consult a professional or advanced user forums for guidance.
Remember to perform regular maintenance on your PC like cleaning up disk space, uninstalling unused programs, updating software, and running malware scans. Such habits can prevent many common computer issues, including those related to mysterious .dll files like ext_funfeedr.dll.