Process Search

smss.exe

Associated Program: Microsoft Windows

Programm Category: Operating System Software

What is smss.exe

The process that is linked to the filename smss.exe is known as Windows Session Manager SubSystem. This is a critical component of Windows operating systems and should not be terminated or altered in any way. The file launches a process that manages all your sessions on your PC, whether you are working with an MS Office application, browsing the Internet, or utilizing other applications installed on your computer. The file launches the kernel mode, win32k.sys, and the user mode, winsrv.dll, and other subsystems listed as required in the subsystems’ registry. All of these modules are necessary to launch an executable. Simply put, you need the file in order to use any of your applications on the PC. The file is installed through your Windows OS service pack. The file is approximately 61.5 KB large, and uses very little RAM space; only about 300 KB. Location of the file is C:\Windows\System 32\smss.exe. This is a Windows-protected file.

How can I stop smss.exe and should I?

Most non-system processes that are running can be stopped because they are not involved in running your operating system. smss.exe. is used by Microsoft Windows, If you shut down smss.exe, it will likely start again at a later time either after you restart your computer or after an application start. To stop smss.exe, permanently you need to uninstall the application that runs this process which in this case is Microsoft Windows, from your system.

After uninstalling applications it is a good idea to scan you Windows registry for any left over traces of applications. Registry Reviver by ReviverSoft is a great tool for doing this.

Is this a virus or other security concern?

ReviverSoft Security Verdict

The ReviverSoft experts have not yet reviewed smss.exe

Request that this process be reviewed

What is a process and how do they affect my computer?

A process usually a part of an installed application such as Microsoft Windows, or your operating system that is responsible for running in functions of that application. Some application require that they have processes running all the time so they can do things such as check for updates or notify you when you get an instant message. Some poorly written applications have many processes that run that may not be required and take up valuable processing power within your computer.

Is smss.exe known to be bad for my computer's performance?

We have not received any complaint about this process having higher than normal impact on PC performance. If you have had bad experiences with it please let us know in a comment below and we will investigate it further.

What can I do if smss.exe is causing errors on my computer?

The first thing you should do if smss.exe. is causing errors on your computer is to run a Windows registry scan with Registry Reviver If you are still seeing errors after this you should uninstall the program that smss.exe, belongs to, in this case Microsoft Windows

About Mark Beare

Founder of ReviverSoft and lover of tweaking and maintaining computers. Ask me a question and comment on my posts. I love feedback!

do you have any questions
about smss.exe?

Feel free to ask our experts from around the world and to receive professional answers for it.

ask your question

Other processes tied to this application