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Ekrn.exe: What Is It & How to Remove It
Learn how other managed to remove the process
4 min. read
Updated onFebruary 23, 2024
updated onFebruary 23, 2024
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Processes like these are often shrouded in mystery, with many wondering if ekrn.exe is a virus. The suspicion is further raised by the fact that the process triggershigh memory usage. For some users, it also used100% CPU.
EKRN stands forESET Kernel Serviceand is a component of theESET Smart Securityprogram. The primary role of the process is to ensure that the relevant core kernel drivers can run without hindrance, which allows utilities like the antivirus, firewall, and anti-phishing to function effectively.
Remember, ekrn.exe is not a core Windows process but is initiated by a third-party program, ESET Smart Security. So, disabling it or removing the program won’t affect the functioning of the OS. The ekrn.exe file location is either of these two:C:\Program Files (x86)\ESET\ESET NOD32 AntivirusC:\Program Files (x86)\ESET\ESET Smart Security
How do I remove ekrn.exe in Windows?
1. Terminate the process
After terminating the process, you should see an immediate improvement in the PC’s performance. But this is a short-term solution since the process is configured to launch automatically when you boot Windows. For longer relief, try the next solution.
2. Disable the relevant services
Disabling the ESET services is another way to fix ekrn.exehigh disk usage, but remember that it turns off the protection as well. So make sure thatWindows Security is working.
3. Uninstall the ESET program
That’s it! If the previous solutions didn’t deliver the desired results, uninstalling ESET should do the trick. Removing the security software also works when ekrn.exe cannot be deleted the conventional way.
Is it safe to use ESET?
While the ekrn.exe process could create a bit of trouble for users, the ESET antivirus is considered one of the best in the market and is often the primary choice of users. Though not as popular as Norton, Avast, or McAfee, ESET has a decent market share and offers a wide array of security features.
Besides,ESET regularly introduces new featuresto enhance security to identify and eliminate the most intricate of threats. And so far, there haven’t been any complaints, except for the process.
When you do, clear any remnant files and cache and delete the Registry entries. This will ensure a complete uninstallation. And an easy way for that is to usededicated uninstaller software.
If you were wondering how to disable ekrn.exe, these are all ways: terminating the process in the Task Manager, disabling the ESET services, oruninstalling the programaltogether.
Before you leave, discover some quick tips and tricks tomake Windows run faster than ever. And also, check thebest security settingsfor a safer experience.
For any queries or to share what worked in your case, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:ESET,High CPU usage
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
