If you’ve come across this article, it is likely that your anti-malware tool has quarantined the hxtsr.exe process because it is flagged as malicious. But what is hxtsr.exe exactly? In an effort to clear your doubts and answer your questions about the hxtsr.exe file, we’ve put up this short article that aims to answer the following questions:
- Is it a malware entity that needs to be removed right away?
- Is Hxtsr.exe a virus?
- Should I delete hxtsr.exe?
About the Hxtsr.exe
The hxtsr.exe file is a legitimate file that is used in Microsoft Windows operating systems. Its main purpose is to maintain or establish a connection between Microsoft Outlook versions 2013 to 2016 and the Windows Store. This file is often found in the C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\microsoft.windowscommunicationsapps folder.
Now, when can you say that the hxtsr.exe file is dangerous? If the file name is slightly different or if the file is saved in another folder, then it is likely that it is not a legit file. It is possible that cybercriminals have altered the name of the file to disguise malicious entities on it.
Sometimes, this file is used to hide Trojans that steal personal information, proliferate viruses, or log keystrokes. Once you have this fake file, you may encounter problems with privacy, financial or data loss, browsing safety, or other more serious issues.
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If you suspect that your system is infected by a fake hxtsr.exe file, remove it right away.
How to Remove the Hxtsr.exe File
No matter what error message associated with the hxtsr.exe file that you are seeing, follow the solutions below to fix the problem.
Solution #1: Scan your PC
Sometimes, a malicious hxtsr.exe file may invade your PC without you knowing. Even with the built-in Windows Defender utility on your computer, there are times when a fake version of the file sneaks and wreaks havoc on your system.
To fix this, you have to scan your PC with a strong and reliable anti-malware tool like Outbyte Anti-Malware.
Here’s how to scan your PC with Outbyte Anti-Malware:
- Download and install Outbyte Anti-Malware.
- Launch the tool and run a quick scan by clicking the Scan Now button.
At this point, the tool should have detected all malicious files and folders on your PC. It will then recommend possible fixes. If the hxtsr.exe file is problematic, then it should already be fixed.
Aside from scanning your PC for any malware entities or viruses, you might want to scan it with a PC repair tool as well. This tool is designed to get rid of junk files that are slowing down your PC or causing random error messages to show.
Solution #2: Install software updates
Windows updates are being released to fix previously known or reported errors with past Windows versions. By installing a Windows update, any problematic system file could be fixed and resolved.
Here’s how to install Windows Updates:
- Click Start.
- Into the search field, input Update.
- From the search results, click Windows Update.
- If an update is available, click the message and install the update.
- Hit OK.
- Finally, click Install Updates.
Solution #3: Update your anti-malware software
The hxtsr.exe file may not be dangerous at all, and it might only be mistaken as a malicious file. To ensure your anti-malware software is able to detect and diagnose the file correctly, make sure your software is up to date. Visit the website of your antivirus software to update it.
Solution #4: Remove the hxtsr.exe file
If your anti-malware keeps on telling you that the hxtsr.exe file is a serious threat to your PC, then your last resort is to delete it.
Here’s how to remove the hxtsr.exe file:
- Open the File Explorer.
- Go to Program Files and right-click on the hxstr.exe file.
- Click Delete.
- If necessary, visit the official Microsoft file and download the file again.
Summary
The hxtsr.exe is an important system process, but if it is causing error messages to pop up, try the solutions above to delete it right away. Having a malicious entity on your PC may only expose you to more dangers, so act quick.