Microsoft Corporation•Safe
explorer.exeWhat is explorer.exe?
explorer.exe is a legitimate Windows system process from Microsoft. It powers the Windows desktop, taskbar, Start menu, File Explorer, and desktop ico...
dwm.exeSafeWhat is dwm.exe?
Publisher: Microsoft CorporationTypical location:
C:\Windows\System32\dwm.exedwm.exe is a legitimate Windows system process called the Desktop Window Manager. It helps draw the visual effects you see on your screen, such as transparent windows, thumbnails, and smooth window switching.
What it does
Desktop Window Manager is part of Windows graphics handling. It takes the windows from apps and composes them into the image you see on your display. This helps Windows manage animations, previews, and modern desktop effects more efficiently.
Is it safe?
Yes. The real dwm.exe is a core Windows process from Microsoft Corporation and should normally be left alone. However, malware can sometimes use the same name to hide, so it is worth checking the file location and publisher if something looks wrong.
Why it causes high CPU or disk usage
- 1A graphics driver problem
- 2Visual effects or animations stressing the GPU
- 3A buggy app creating lots of screen redraws
- 4A Windows update or display setting issue
- 5The real process being impersonated by malware if the path or publisher looks wrong
How to check if it's legitimate
- Open Task Manager, then right-click dwm.exe and choose Open file location.
- Confirm the file is in
C:\Windows\System32\dwm.exe. - Right-click the file, open Properties, and check the Digital Signatures or Details tab for Microsoft Corporation.
- If the file is in a different folder, has no Microsoft signature, or keeps causing unusual behavior, treat it as suspicious and run a malware scan.
How to remove it
You should not try to remove the real dwm.exe. It is a core Windows component, and deleting or ending it can break your desktop display or force Windows to recreate it. If CPU usage is high, restart the PC first, then check for Windows updates, driver updates, and any apps causing heavy screen activity. If the file is not in C:\Windows\System32 or is not signed by Microsoft, scan for malware instead of deleting it manually.
Recommended fixes
Restart your device
A restart clears temporary state that often causes transient errors.
- Save your work and close open apps.
- Restart the device from the power menu.
- Reproduce the issue to check whether it persists.
Install Windows updates
- Open Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install everything available.
- Restart if prompted.
Update your drivers (Windows)
- Open Device Manager.
- Right-click the affected device and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for drivers.
Scan for malware (Windows)
- Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
- Run a Full scan.
- Quarantine or remove anything detected, then restart.
Need more help?
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