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NetworkCap.exe: What Is It & Should You Delete It?
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4 min. read
Updated onFebruary 21, 2024
updated onFebruary 21, 2024
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Of the manybackground processesrunning on the PC, some perform critical tasks while others, if eliminated, do not affect the core functioning of the OS. A proper understanding of both helpsreduce CPU usagein Windows. One such is theNetworkCap.exeprocess.
And besides resource consumption, there are various other issues accompanying the process. For some users,NetworkCap.execausedslow Internet speed, dropping from 10 Mbps to a few hundred Kbps. If you are facing problems, here’s everything you need to know!
What is Network Cap exe?
The process relates to HP Network HSA Service and usually comes preinstalled on some HP devices. The executable file forNetworkCap.exeis stored in the System32 folder in either of these locations:C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository\hpcustomcapcomp.inf_amd64_79c5c41204d03777x64C:\Windows\System32\DriverStore\FileRepository\hpcustomcapcomp.inf_amd64_7898ab4dfb5a2c7bx64
The HP tool is often found running the Task Manager even when not manually initiated by the user. This is what concerns users, and many ask ifNetworkCap.exeis a virus. The answer is no, but it could be categorized asbloatware in Windows.
NetworkCap.exeis a network monitoring tool, but given that it’s not a core Microsoft process, there’s no harm in removing it. And this should not affect the functioning of core Windows processes or even third-party programs.
But before you do, we recommendcreating a restore pointso as to have the ability to revert the changes in case things go wrong.
How do I fix NetworkCap.exe errors?
1. Manually delete the file
One of the quickest solutions to fixing issues withNetworkCap.exe, be it slow Internet orhigh memory consumption, is to remove the executable file.
Simply head to the file’s storage location and delete it. Also, make sure to remove the executable file from the Recycle Bin.
2. Scan for malware
While theNetworkCap.exeprocess is not malware, it could be triggered by one. Or there’s a chance that the PC is infected by a virus disguised as the process. And in this case, running a malware scan is the best choice. You could also use adedicated antivirus solutionfor more effective results.
3. Set to low priority
Remember, this is not a long-term solution and won’t keep the process from running. It will just prioritize other processes over it and help keep the resource consumption under check.
4. Use a dedicated task-killer software
When nothing else seems to work, you can use adedicated softwareto kill theNetworkCap.exeprocess as soon as it runs.
Configure the software such that it automatically checks for instances of the process every 15-30 seconds and terminates them.
That’s all there is about theNetworkCap.exeHP process and some effective ways to eliminate it in no time. Before you leave, check some quick tips tomake Windows run faster than ever.
This process is somewhat similar toKiller Network Service on Windows 11, and we have a special guide dedicated to it, so don’t miss it.
For any queries or to share how you managed to get rid of the process, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:High CPU usage,internet
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.
