TechnicaMag.com

Computer Operating Systems run a number of automatic programs to maintain the smooth and efficient running of your computer, and these are called ‘executable files’ (EXE).

These files are able to run without the intervention of the user, and this makes them vulnerable to exploitation by hackers, as once loaded onto your system EXE files can run without your knowledge and can be used to extract personal information from your computer and send it to another source. You must be careful when opening any new EXE files to ensure they are not malicious programs in disguise, and never open any EXE attachments sent to you via email unless you are sure they are from a legitimate and secure source.

EXE files do serve very important functions though, so if you see them on your systems directory you should not try and delete them without checking them thoroughly first. For example the filename SVCHOST.EXE is an important host process for linking DLL files with other software applications, and facilitates the stability and security of your operating system.

SVCHOST.EXE creates multiple instances of itself throughout your system, so you may see it repeated in a few different folders. It is important to note that malicious programs can sometimes masquerade as legitimate EXE files, so you should always scan your computer regularly for viruses and spyware, to ensure all your EXE files are authentic and performing legitimate functions.

Another important EXE file is CCSVCHST.EXE, which belongs to the company Symantec, and is loaded onto your computer when you install Norton Antivirus Software. CCSVCHST is well known for causing severe run time problems when it is updating the Antivirus software, and users have found in some cases it can use 100% of the CPU, making the computer unusable until it has finished. If this problem occurs then it is recommended that you uninstall Norton Software, and replace it with another antivirus program as soon as possible.