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Keygen.exe: What it is and How to Remove it

Learn everything about this tool

3 min. read

Updated onApril 3, 2024

updated onApril 3, 2024

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Key notes

Pirated versions ofsoftwareoften come accompanied by security threats. Most of the time, they require secondary applications to run or register.

One of those is Keygen.exe, a simple application that can bring a bag full ofmalwareor spyware right at your front door.

Our intention today is to explain what Keygen.exe is, how it can affect your PC, and how to deal with it. If you’re concerned about the negative effects, look below for a detailed explanation.

Is Keygen safe?

Named alsoKey Generator,is a hack tool but notmalwareper se. It mostly comes with piratedsoftwareand its main use is to create license keys so users can illegally register the desired application.

Even though this tool isn’tmalwareby itself, it’s still illegal for obvious reasons, and it can be carrying Trojan, viruses, or data-stealing keyloggers that will damage your PC.

In comparison to cracks, Keygen doesn’t modify any parts of the program.Modifying certain security algorithms enables any random license key to work.

After you’re prompted to insert the license key during the installation, this hackapplication willgenerate a code so you can manually insert it.

How can I remove the Keygen.exe virus?

1. Perform a quick virus scan

1. Press theWindowskey +Itoopen theSettings app.

Go to theUpdate & Securitysection.

3.SelectWindows Securityfrom the left panel.

In the right panel, click onOpen Windows Security.
SelectVirus & threatprotection, and click onQuick scan.

You can remove the Keygen.exe file from your PC by conducting a virus scan. Your built-in Windows antivirus can scan your PC and not only find the tool, but also provide you with options as to what to do to remove it.

If you’re keen to get rid of Keygen and other related files, you can do it by deleting them manually. Just completely delete the downloaded files and that should be it.

On the other hand, there’s a chance that your system is already infected. Therefore, any infections detected may mean you will have some data loss.

Want to knowhow to scan your PC with Windows Defender Offline? Check our detailed guide for more info.

2. Use a third-party antimalware software for a deep scan

Making sure that your PC is protected from the effects of themalwarepresence is of utmost importance. In this case, we suggest a full scan with a modern antivirus solution.

This antivirus is a next-generation security solution that is designed to be fast, stay out of the way, and keep your digital life safe.

It offers complete protection against viruses, worms, spam, spyware, and othermalware. This AI-powered antivirus is continually improving itself.

ESET HOME Security Essential

Even though Keygen.exe isn’tmalware, in more than 50% of detections, it carries some kind of malicioussoftware. That’s a risk certain users are willing to take, but we don’t advise you to do that.

We also recommend you keep your computer safe by installing the recommended antivirus or any of thesegreat malware remover tools.

Don’t forget to tell us whether one of the solutions gets you through the problem.If you have any other suggestions or questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

Keygen.exe: What it is and How to Remove it#

Is Keygen safe?#

How can I remove the Keygen.exe virus?#

1. Perform a quick virus scan#

2. Use a third-party antimalware software for a deep scan#

ESET HOME Security Essential#