ApplyTrustOffline.exe: What Is It and Is It Safe?
This guide comprehensively explains everything you should know about the ApplyTrustOffline.exe file
If you just discovered ApplyTrustOffline.exe running in your Task Manager and would like to learn more about this file, you have come to the right article. This process performs specific functions in your computer, so deleting it without proper guidance could affect your device negatively.
This article will help you understand what the ApplyTrustOffline.exe file means, its role in your device, and how to know if it is a legitimate process.
What is ApplyTrustOffline.exe?
ApplyTrustOffline.exe is a genuine Windows process used to add trust to certificates not trusted by the Windows operating system and associated with Windows Updates. This process usually runs when you install a new application or program not signed by a trusted publisher.
Although the ApplyTrustOffline.exe file is a part of the Microsoft Windows operating system, malware writers occasionally try to use it as a cover for their malicious code using the same filename.
Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the ApplyTrustOffline.exe file on your computer is legitimate and malware-free.
Where is ApplyTrustOffline.exe located?
By default, the location of the executable should be in the C:\Windows\System32 folder. But if you find the file in a strange location, you should be careful as this could be malicious software.
Is ApplyTrustOffline.exe Safe?
Yes, the ApplyTrustOffline.exe file is a genuine Windows process that runs silently in the background and performs specific functions.
What should I do if I am concerned about ApplyTrustOffline.exe?
1. Run a malware scan
- Click the upward-facing arrow at the bottom right corner of your screen to select your antivirus program, right-click on it, and choose the option that starts the application.
- Select the button that performs the virus scan (This process will differ depending on the antivirus software you use). If you want reliable antivirus software, check out our list of the best antivirus without ads for suggestions.
- After completing this process, check whether your PC performance has improved.
2. Check the file size
Another step you can take is to check the size of the file. A legitimate ApplyTrustOffline.exe file should not be more than 23,608 bytes in size. If the file is smaller or larger than the normal size, you should be careful as this could be a virus.
3. Verify the file location
- Hold Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
- Look for the ApplyTrustOffline.exe file, right-click on it, then choose Open file location.
- If the file is located in the C:\Windows\System32 folder, then it is a legitimate file; however, if it is found in a strange location, then you should know it is malware.
In conclusion, after reading this article, you should understand the ApplyTrustOffline.exe file and how it operates. If you enjoyed reading this article, you would also enjoy this other article talking about another background Windows process called AggregatorHost.exe.
