The abbreviation for Microsoft Removal Tool is MRT.exe. Microsoft calls it the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool. According to File.net, it’s a Microsoft Windows software component. The Microsoft Removal Tool runs with the mrt.exe file as its main executable.
Despite the fact that it is not a required Windows process, File.net advises that you eliminate it only if it is causing you problems. This free tool, which was first released for Windows Xp in 2005, is primarily used to scan for viruses.
It’s defined as an anti-virus supplement that shouldn’t be used in place of a dedicated anti-virus product like Norton or AVG. However, it is usually a little utility that causes few problems for users.
The Meaning of MRT.exe
MRT.exe stands for “Microsoft Removal Tool Executable.” It is a legitimate system process associated with Microsoft Windows.
The primary function of MRT.exe is to run the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT), which is designed to scan for and remove malicious software, such as viruses, malware, and other security threats.
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Causes of MRT.exe Issues
While MRT.exe is a critical system process, there can be instances where issues related to it may arise. These issues can be caused by various factors:
- Corrupted Files: If the MRT.exe file or associated system files become corrupted, it can lead to errors.
- Malware Infection: Ironically, malware can sometimes target the MRT.exe process to disrupt its functionality or use a similarly named file to disguise itself.
- Interference by Security Software: Some third-party security software may conflict with the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool, leading to errors or issues.
- Outdated Software: Running an outdated version of the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool can result in compatibility issues.
- System Resource Problems: Insufficient system resources or high CPU and memory usage can affect the performance of MRT.exe.
How To Fix MRT.exe High CPU And Memory Usage
Malicious Removal Tool (MRT.exe) is a legitimate Windows programme that stands for Malicious Removal Tool. This software will increase CPU and Memory consumption while it runs due to the resources it takes to perform its functions.
There are a few reasons why the mrt.exe process is consuming so much CPU. Mrt.exe (Malicious Software Eradication Tool) is a removal software for Windows. As a result, just because mrt.exe is running in Task Manager doesn’t mean it’s a virus.
The Malicious Software Removal Tool is updated once a month via Windows Update (in the Tuesday update of every month). This item is quite beneficial. It should run when it has been updated, but not before. It won’t work for the rest of the month or until it’s updated again.
So, unless you notice mrt.exe using a lot of CPU on a regular basis, you generally don’t need to be concerned. Mrt.exe has a reputation for consuming a lot of resources. You shouldn’t be concerned as long as it doesn’t always run. However, if mrt.exe is left running for days on end, that’s a red flag.
Method 1: Delete The MRT.exe files
You’ll find it at C:Windowssystem32, the official Malicious Software Removal Tool for Windows. Any mrt.exe discovered elsewhere is a virus or malware posing as the real thing. The first step is to get rid of any mrt.exe files that aren’t in C:Windowssystem32.
The following are the steps for locating and removing harmful mrt.exe files:
Step 1: While holding down the Windows key, press E. While holding the CTRL, press F (CTRL + F). After typing exe, press Enter. Wait for Windows to start searching for the file.
Among an ideal world, there would only be one mrt.exe in the search results. Right-click the file and select Open file location from the menu if you want to view more. Right-click the file and select Delete. Carry out the same steps for all mrt.exe files (if you have any). except for the one in C:Windowssystem32, of course.
Step 2: Double-check that the file in C:Windowssystem32 has not been deleted. The location of the file should be provided beneath them (in the search results).
Step 3: Press CTRL, SHIFT, and Esc at the same moment to launch the Task Manager (CTRL + SHIFT + Esc) if you can’t remove the file. Locate and select the mrt.exe process. Choose the Finish Task option. Now go over the steps once more and try to delete the file.
After that, you should no longer be bothered by mrt.exe’s high CPU usage. However, we urge that you follow the guidelines in method 2 to ensure that your system is secure.
Note: If you keep seeing the message “MRT cannot be found” after deleting the mrt.exe, try the following.
Step 1: Get the Autoruns from here.
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/downloads/autoruns.
Once the zip file has been downloaded, open it with WinRAR and run the exe file.
Step 2: In the Logon tab’s list, look for the mrt.exe file. If mrt.exe isn’t in that list, go to the Everything tab and look for it. In that list, right-click mrt.exe and choose Delete from the context menu. Any additional prompts should be double-checked.
You should see the mrt.exe-related notification again when you boot up.
Method 2: Scanning Your Computer
If mrt.exe is consistently running on your computer, it is almost probably infected. Even if you followed the recommendations in method 1, it is advised that you check your machine with a reliable security tool. A virus scan on your computer with a reputable protection tool is a smart idea.
Step 1: You can use any antimalware product you like, although Malwarebytes is a decent choice if you’re not sure. Malwarebytes for Windows is available for download by clicking here.
When your computer has been infected with malware, run Malwarebytes to scan it. Following that, your computer should be malware-free.
Is It Safe to Delete MRT.exe?
In most cases, it is not safe to delete MRT.exe. MRT.exe is a critical component of the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool, which plays a crucial role in protecting your computer from malware and security threats. Removing or deleting MRT.exe can leave your system vulnerable to infections and compromise its security.
It’s essential to differentiate between troubleshooting and deleting system files. While you can troubleshoot MRT.exe-related issues as discussed above, deleting the executable file itself is not recommended and should only be considered as a last resort in extreme cases.
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Conclusion
There was no evidence of infection. The Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool was completed at 01:57:25 on Wednesday, May 11th, 2011. The result code is 0. (0x0). As we’ve seen, this Windows utility is harmless until it’s installed outside of your critical system directories.
Watch the video above to see how to correct it if it’s taking up too much space. It’s most likely a one-time increase, but there are ways to disable this Windows function if it isn’t.
