Backgroundtransferhost.exe: What Is It and Should I Disable It?

Many Windows users are raising concerns about a process they just discovered on their device: the BackgroundTransferHost.exe. It remains a mystery to many what this file is and its role.

In this article, we will solve the mystery behind this process and help you know how to use this program effectively.

What is BackgroundTransferHost.exe?

The BackgroundTransferHost.exe is a Windows process that allows you to download and upload files in the background even when your device is in sleep mode. It is also in charge of synchronizing most of your Windows settings and user preferences.

Where is BackgroundTransferHost.exe located?

By default, the original location of the BackgroundTransferHost.exe file is in the C:\Windows\System32 backgroundtransferhost exe folder. If you discover the file in another location, you should be cautious, as this could be malware disguised as the BackgroundTransferHost.exe file.

Should I disable BackgroundTransferHost.exe?

Disabling BackgroundTransferHost.exe depends heavily on you and your individual preference.

Some reasons why you might want to keep the BackgroundTransferHost.exe file include the following:

• It allows you to download Windows updates in the background, ensuring you do not miss out on important updates.
• It enables you to synchronize and update files across multiple devices simultaneously.
• It facilitates quick background download of games and applications from the Microsoft Store.

Some reasons to disable this process include:

• Disabling this process can help free up system resources because BackgroundTransferHost.exe uses lots of CPU and memory space.
• Disabling this program can also help improve your device’s battery life because this process uses a significant amount of battery power to keep downloading files or programs in the background.
• Stopping this process from running can also help prevent unexpected or unwanted downloads. It will ensure you are always aware of every download on your device.

Ultimately, the choice to keep or disable this process depends on your preference. We will advise you to carefully consider its advantages and disadvantages before deciding.

How do I turn off background transfer host?

1. Disable sync settings

1. Hold the Windows + S keys simultaneously to open the search bar, type sync settings in the text field, and choose the relevant option.
   
2. Next, turn off the toggle under the Sync settings option.
   
3. This process is one way to disable BackgroundTransferHost.exe.

2. Turn off time broker service

1. Press the Windows + R keys together to open the Run dialogue, type regedit in the text field, and hit Enter.
   
2. Next, navigate to the path below.
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > SYSTEM > CurrentControlSet > Services > TimeBrokerSvc
   
3. Look for the Start DWORD option and double-click on it.
   
4. Choose the Hexadecimal option and in the Value data section, type 4, then click OK to confirm.
   
5. Lastly, reboot your device to implement the changes you made.

3. Use a Firewall to block it

1. Hold the Windows + S keys simultaneously to open the search bar, type Windows Defender Firewall in the text field, and choose the relevant option.
   
2. Select the Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall option.
   
3. Click the Change settings option above and select Allow another app.
   
4. Next, click the Browse button, choose the backgroundtransferhost.exe from its location, and click Open.
   
5. Click the Add button, then uncheck the box for Backgroundtransferhost.exe.
6. Finally, click OK to stop backgroundtransferhost.exe syncing.
   

We hope this article was useful in helping you gain a better understanding of the BackgroundTransferHost.exe process and how it operates on Windows.

If you enjoyed reading this article, you would also like this other article that talks about another background process called poqexec.exe.