What Is FileCoAuth.exe?

Developed by Microsoft, FileCoAutho.exe is a legit executable file that is associated with the Microsoft OneDriveFile Co-Authoring Executable process. Because many users do not know that it comes bundled with the Microsoft OneDrive software, many ask the question, “Is FileCoAuth.exe a legit file?”

Considering that Microsoft created it, it’s safe to say that it’s a safe and important file that must not be deleted. Without it, certain functions of the Microsoft OneDrive software may not work properly.

Unfortunately, creators of malware entities today often disguise threats as legitimate Microsoft files. They rename it with real files that play a critical role in the Microsoft operating system environment, leaving users confused whether they’re dealing with viruses or not.

The FileCoAuth.exe file is not an exemption. Many cybercriminals execute their malicious acts by concealing malware in counterfeit FileCoAuth.exe files. So, when should one consider removing FileCoAuth.exe?

Is FileCoAutho.exe a Virus?

If you open Task Manager and notice that the FileCoAuth.exe process is consuming too much CPU or GPU resource, then it’s likely that a virus or malware entity is performing malicious acts in the background. The real FileCoAuth.exe file is known for not consuming so much system resource.

Another method to distinguish a fake FileCoAuth.exe file is by verifying its location. The legit file is often found in the C:UsersUSERNAMEAppDataLocalMicrosoftOneDrive19.086.0502.0006 folder. To check the location, open Task Manager and navigate to the Columns field. Locate the FileCoAuth.exe process, right-click on it, and select Open File Location. If it takes you to the mentioned folder, then you don’t have to worry. Otherwise, take action and get rid of it.

Common FileCoAuth.exe Errors

Now, there are times when you encounter FileCoAuth.exe errors due to various factors, including malware and virus attacks. These errors usually show during runtime, which means they are triggered when Windows is booting up, or in some cases, when applications are launched.

Below are some of the most common errors associated with the FileCoAuth.exe file:

• FileCoAuth.exe – Bad Image
• FileCoAuth.exe could not be found.
• FileCoAuth.exe Application Error.
• FileCoAuth.exe could not be launched. Class not registered.
• FileCoAuth.exe could not be installed.
• FileCoAuth.exe failed to initialize properly.
• FileCoAuth.exe is not a valid Win32 application.
• FileCoAuth.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience.
• Cannot find FileCoAuth.exe.
• The FileCoAuth.exe file is missing or corrupted.
• Faulting Application Path: FileCoAuth.exe.
• FileCoAuth.exe is not running.
• Windows failed to start – FileCoAuth.exe.

How to Fix FileCoAuth.exe Error Messages

Identifying the message that comes with the error is key to properly fixing FileCoAuth.exe-related problems. Once you’ve identified the error message, try any of the troubleshooting methods below in the recommended order.

Fix #1: Use System Restore

System Restore is a built-in Windows utility that can be used to resolve issues with important system files.

To start System Restore, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows button to launch the Start menu.
2. Into the search field, type system restore and hit Enter.
3. Click on the most relevant search result.
4. If asked, provide an administrator password.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts and select a restore point when the error was not existing.
6. Wait for the process to complete.

Fix #2: Uninstall and then reinstall the Cisco VPN Client Fix software

If you have recently installed the Cisco VPN Client Fix on your device, try to uninstall it and check if it gets rid of the FileCoAuth.exe error.

Here’s how:

1. Press the Windows button to launch the Start menu.
2. Into the search field, enter uninstall and hit Enter.
3. Click on the most relevant search result and select Add or Remove Programs.
4. Locate Cisco VPN Client Fix and hit the Uninstall button.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to completely remove the software.
6. Once the software program has been removed, restart your PC.
7. Reinstall the Cisco VPN Client Fix software.

Fix #3: Update Windows

Another possible fix that can resolve the FileCoAuth.exe error is to update Windows. An outdated Windows operating system is prone to problems and issues like the FileCoAuth.exe error.

To update Windows, refer to these simple steps:

1. Press the Windows button to launch the Start menu.
2. Into the search field, input update and hit Enter.
3. Click the Check for Updates button.
4. If updates are available, install them by clicking Install Updates.
5. Once the update is done, reboot your PC.

Fix #4: Replace the FileCoAuth.exe file

If none of the three fixes has resolved the problem, try a more aggressive method. This involves replacing your FileCoAuth.exe file with a newer version. Make sure you download from a reputable source to avoid downloading a fake file.

Fix #5: Run a malware scan

As mentioned above, malware entities may be hiding as a fake FileCoAuth.exe file. To ensure that the FileCoAuth.exe file that is running in the background is legit, run a complete malware scan.

To do so, you may use the in-built utility on Windows 10/11, which is Windows Defender, or you may choose to download and install a third-party antivirus suite. For better results, you can run a scan using both.

Launch Windows Defender or any antivirus suite of your choice. And then, perform a complete malware scan. Wait for the scan to complete and follow the recommended solutions to get rid of any threats found.

Fix #6: Remove the FileCoAuth.exe file from your device

Lastly, you may opt to remove the FileCoAuth.exe file from your computer. Take note that we don’t recommend doing this, especially if you are not sure about whether or not the file is legit. But if you wish to proceed, do the following:

1. Go to System Settings and select Add or Remove Programs.
2. Next, find FileCoAuth.exe or any software named Microsoft OneDrive.
3. Click on it and hit the Uninstall button. This will not only remove the FileCoAuth.exe file from your system, but it will also delete the Microsoft OneDrive software as well.

Summary

Hopefully, this article has taught you more about the FileCoAuth.exe file, the common errors associated with it, as well as ways to fix them. If you found this helpful, do not hesitate to share it on social media. You may also let us know your thoughts in the comments below.