If you are a Windows user, you might come across mrt.exe_p and mtrstub.exe in one of the drives. You might wonder what mrtstub.exe is and whether it is a virus. This article from MiniTool offers a comprehensive overview of mrtstub.exe for you. Continue reading.

While using Windows, you might encounter files or processes called mrtstub.exe or mrt.exe_p. These files are placed in folders with lengthy alphanumeric names, such as d2cf4fd29fca9db1ed3f48 and various other versions in the C:\Windows\System32 directory. This article provides details about mrtstub.exe.

What Is Mrtstub.exe?

What exactly is mrtstub.exe? The mrtstub .exe file is a software component of Microsoft Corporation's Malicious Software Removal Tool. The mrtstub.exe file is harmless, and it can be downloaded along with the packaged file (mrt.exe._p), which holds an updated version of the MSRT (Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool).

See Also: What Is MRT.exe & How to Solve Its High CPU Usage

Is Mrtstub.exe a Virus?

Since these files are part of Microsoft Windows, they are typically found on the C drive (or the drive where Windows is installed). The common location for these files is C:\Windows\System32. If you notice these files in other drives, it could indicate a virus. Generally, mrtstub .exe is not a virus, but certain harmful applications mimic mrtstub.exe and harm your computer without your awareness.

How to Tell If It Is a Virus?

How can you determine if mrtstub .exe is a virus? There are three methods for you to verify it.

1. Check Digital Signature

The most effective way to confirm whether a file is legitimate or a virus is by checking its properties. In the properties, you can review the digital signature of the file. If the digital signature belongs to Microsoft, it is not a virus. Here are the detailed steps:

Step 1: Locate mrtstub.exe and right-click it to select Properties.

Step 2: Click the Digital Signatures tab and ensure that the Name of Signer reads Microsoft Windows. If Microsoft Windows is shown, it should be safe. If there are other messages, you should remove the file instantly.

Tip: Ensure that the spelling of Microsoft Windows is accurate. Malicious applications often attempt to disguise their files to appear as legitimate as possible.

Also see: Fixed: Windows Cannot Verify the Digital Signature Error Code 52

2. Check Mrt.log

You can easily check the mrt.log file to see if a report is generated when the file appears. Since every time the file shows up, it signifies that the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool is operational, and each time the tool runs, it generates a report in mrt.log. Hence, if there is no report in mrt.log when you spot the file, it is a warning sign.

Step 1: Press the Windows R keys simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.

Step 2: Input %systemroot%\debug and press Enter. Locate and double-click the file named log. Review the time stamp on the report. If the scan time matches the moment you noticed the file, it means that mrtstub is not the virus.

3. Check for Virus or Malware

You can also utilize Windows Defender to search for malware and viruses. Follow the steps below to conduct a full scan.

Step 1: Press the Windows I keys simultaneously to open Settings.

Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security.

Step 3: In the new window, click Run a new advanced scan.

Step 4: Select Full scan and click Scan now. Wait for the process to finish and then you can verify if the mrtstub.exe is a virus.

Final Thoughts

In summary, here is all the information regarding mrtstub.exe. I hope this article proves beneficial to you.

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