Aggregator Host on Windows: What Is It and What Are Its Functions?

In the Task Manager on Windows OS, you may have noticed several processes running in the background; these processes operate silently and carry out specific functions. As a result, these processes are necessary for the Windows Operating System to run correctly.

Several errors in your system could result from disabling any of these processes without understanding what it is used for. Aggregator Host, which we’ll discuss in this post, is one of these background processes.

What is Aggregator Host?

The Aggregator Host is a file that has to do with Windows. The file’s properties window is usually blank. Users have reported that this process connected to Windows Defender appears and vanishes at random.

Similar files with the name aggregator.exe also exist, which are accessible through LG Smart Share or Adobe software. These two files, which are typically located in different locations, are frequently confused by users.

The main job of the Aggregator Host is listed below.

• Getting updates for installed apps – The Aggregator Host is responsible for getting updates on any app that you have installed using the Microsoft Store.
• Application license management – This process is also responsible for managing app license that protects your interest while using applications.
• Oversee application metadata – The Aggregator Host controls and monitors application metadata.
• Control communication between Microsoft Store app and backend servers – This process also ensures smooth communication between the Store app and backend servers.
• Data synchronization – This process helps to synchronize and aggregate data from various sources within the Microsoft Store app.

However, it would be best if you were very careful when dealing with this file, as many malicious programs could disguise themselves as a genuine program to compromise your system.

Is Aggregator Host a Virus?

You must check the file location to know if the Aggregator Host is a virus. If the file is located in the path below, it is genuine, and you do not have to worry about it.
C:\Windows\System32

However, if the file is located somewhere strange on your system, you must be careful as this could be malware disguised as the Aggregator Host.

If you notice that a virus is disguising itself as the aggregate host on your device, take the following steps to troubleshoot this problem.

1. Open your device in a clean boot

1. Hold the Windows + R keys together to open the Run dialogue, type msconfig in the text field, and hit Enter.
   
2. Go to the Services tab click the check box next to the Hide all Microsoft services option and select the Disable all button.
   
3. Click the OK button to save the changes you have made.
   
4. Choose Restart in the System Configuration pop-up menu.
5. Once your device restarts, it will be in a clean boot.

2. Check file location

1. Hold the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys simultaneously to open your Task Manager.
2. Look for the Aggregator Host.exe, right-click on it, and select Open file location.
   
3. If the file location takes you to the C:\Windows\System32 folder, this process is genuine, and you do not need to worry.

3. Use the SFC scan

1. Hold the Windows + S keys simultaneously to open the search menu, type cmd in the search field, right-click on the required result, and choose Run as administrator.
   
2. In the command prompt, type the command below and hit Enter.
   sfc /scannow
   
3. Wait for the process to finish, reboot your device, and check to see if the Aggregator Host is still operating.

4. Run the DISM scan

1. Hold the Windows + S keys simultaneously to open the search menu, type cmd in the search field, right-click on the required result, and choose Run as administrator.
   
2. Enter the following commands below and hit Enter after each one.
   DISM /online /Cleanup-Image / ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   
3. Allow the scan to finish, then reboot your computer to implement changes.

5. Perform a virus scan

1. Click on the upward-facing arrow at the bottom right corner of your taskbar to select your antivirus program, right-click on it, and choose the option that opens up the application.
   
2. Next, click on the button that performs a virus scan.
   
3. After completing this program, check whether the aggregate host file works. If it is still in operation, this process is safe.

6. Use the Windows memory diagnostic tool

1. Press the Windows + S keys together to open the search bar, type Windows memory diagnostic in the search bar, and click the required option.
   
2. Choose Restart now and check for problems (recommended).
   
3. Allow the computer to reboot. Once it is restarted, the memory diagnostic will automatically begin, allow the process to finish, and restart your PC.
   
4. After logging in, the test result will be displayed on your desktop.
   

In conclusion, Aggregator Host is a genuine Windows process unless a malicious program has infected it. Most time, the process will not cause any harm or consume a high volume of system resources. It is best not to tamper with this process unless it is causing problems for your device.

We have discussed other files, like the NPSMSvc service, that you may want to read about.