Program

Executable

Comments

N

1A:MacVisionTrayMonitor

TrayMonitor.exe

Comes with the MacVision program for monitoring tray icons (Note : program is by Stardock). Not required

N

1A:Stardock TrayMonitor

trayserver.exe

For monitoring tray icons - not required

?

3cdminic

3CDMINIC.EXE

3Com DMI (DynamicAccess Desktop Management Interface) Agent associated with 3Com network cards. Probably required if you have one of these

?

3CM Link

3cmcnkw.exe

Same as below?

Y

3Cmlink

3CmlinkW.exe

For a USR (US Robotics) winmodem, providing the link to Windows as the CPU doe the processing on winmodems - won't work without it. WinModems use software rather than hardware - hence putting a load on the CPU. See here for more WinModem information

U

3Deep Control Panel

3DeepCTL.EXE

From E-Color. 3Deep® software can be the difference between life and death for gamers. It corrects lighting, shading and color for all your 2D and 3D games

N

3D Text

3D Text.scr

3D Text screensaver - not required

Y

3dfxv2ps.dll

3dfxv2ps.dll

Updates the registry with information that can't be held for 3dfx Voodoo 2 video cards. Important for owners of these cards

X

3Dfx Acc

GFXACC.EXE

Added as a result of the GIBE VIRUS! See here

Y

3dfx Tools

3dfxCmn.dll

Updates the registry with information that can't be held for later 3dfx Voodoo video cards, ie Voodoo 3/4/5. Important for owners of these cards

N

3dfx Task Manager

3dfxMan.exe

System tray application for 3dfx Voodoo 3/4/5 functions. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

?

3DLabsHelperDemon

3dldemon.exe

Associated with 3D Labs video cards

U

3qdctl.exe

3qdctl.exe

Provided with Terratec 128i PCI and similar sound cards. This loads a sound profile at bootup, restoring volume and other audio settings to a pre-determined default. Similar to Creative Lab's AudioHQ

Program

Executable

Comments

U

A1000 Settings Utility

cpqa1000.exe

Compaq A1000 Print Fax All-in-One copy scan printer software. Required in the Startup in order to scan, print, copy and fax. Only needed if you use these features. If unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

N

AAATraySaver

TraySaver.exe

System tray management utility from Mike Lin which allows you to: hide and show system tray icons; restore icons that are lost in an Explorer crash; automatically remove dead tray icons; minimize any window to the system tray. Not required

N

ABBYY Community Agent

CAGENT.EXE

This program is installed with the Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software that comes bundled a Compaq A3000 all-in-one printer scanner. It's function appears to be to link you to the internet in an attempt to buy the 5.0 version of the software.  The computer and OCR both work fine with this EXE disabled at start up

X

ABsr

absr.exe

Added as a result of a VIRUS! See here and here

X

abtu

mp3serch.exe
or
lopsearch.exe

Loads the executeable for Lop.com. mp3serch.exe is the final version whilst lopsearch.exe is the beta version

N

Access Ramp Monitor

armon32.exe

Used to monitor your progress on the internet hang-ups, connection speeds, internet congestion, and traffic flow. It prevents some games from running also. To disable the Access Ramp Monitor (1) Open Windows Explorer (2) Open the Program Files folder (3) Open the MindSpring folder (4) Open the AccessRamp folder (5) Double-click on the ARMCfg32.exe file (6) Uncheck Enable Dialup Monitor and click OK (7) Restart the computer and try again. Not required

N

AccessRamp Monitor01

ARMon32a.exe

From a visitor "Just wanted to provide you with some info on Access Ramp software installed w/Verizon DSL accounts in those areas that use the Winpoet PPPoE software. The Access Ramp TSRs are installed as part of IP Insight software (can't remember the software maker) - You can decline to install IP Insight during Winpoet setup, or go into Add/Remove programs uninstall IP Insight by hand if it's already installed. It really doesn't do a darn thing for you. It was intended to help DSL techs monitor QoS, but the backend part was never implemented (at least as of earlier this year). This will not affect the user's ability or inability to access their DSL service."

N

AccessRampLAN01

ARUpld32.exe

Version of the above for LAN connections - a history uploader. The key in turning it off is a file named ARUCfg32.exe. This file (ARUCfg32.exe) does not show up in the startup process. If you have this file, you can execute it and remove all the monitoring activities it does. Removing all the checks in all the boxes (both tabs) still calls ARUpld32.exe to start when you start the dial up. You can block it from sending info if you have Zone Alarm installed. Renaming the extension of ARUCfg32.exe to ARUCfg32.exe1 works. The ARUpld32.exe is not loaded when launching the dial up client

U

acoustic

acoustic.exe

Philips psc706 audio control panel program for Phillips Acoustic Edge Sound card. Not required unless changed settings aren'r retained

N

Acrobat Assitant

ACROTRAY.EXE

If you want to create a PDF using Acrobat Distiller, you can execute this program manually just before doing so. Unavailable via Start -> Programs so create your own shortcut

?

acpart

agpart11.exe

??

N

ActiveEyes

ActiveEyes.exe

ActiveEyes from TFI Technology is a small utility that you can use to liven up your desktop. It follows your mouse around and can tell you how far your cursor has travelled or point out where the cursor is. It's small, it's free and comes with a range of options and animations. Not needed - if unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

U

ActiveMenu

ActiveMenu.exe

Goes with WildTangant demo games that come will HP computers. Unchecking it can prevent the games from running occassionally

?

Ad Online Guide

adonlineguide.exe

??

N

Adaptec DirectCD

Directcd.exe

DirectCD allows you (amongst other things) to drag and drop files onto a suitably formated CD-RW disc. Unless you use this on a frequent basis it isn't required an is available via Start -> Programs. Start the program before inserting a DirectCD formatted CD-RW in the drive. Also covered under "DirectCD"

N

Adaware Bootup

ad-aware.exe

Ad-aware from Lavasoft. Checks your PC for "Spyware" which reports back your internet activities to "base". Check here or here for information about Spyware. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

?

Advanced Tools Check

ADVCHK.EXE

??

U

Adobe Gamma Loader

Adobe Gamma Loader.exe

Adjusts monitor colours across all programs, including Photoshop. It is needed by some graphics professionals who want their monitor calibrated. Most home users will not need it. In my case I can verify this as Photoshop loads fine

X

adp

adp.exe

This is advertising spyware installed by Net2Phone, Limewire, Cydoor, Grokster, KaZaa, and who knows what all else. DEFINITELY not needed. More on this here

?

ADService

ADService.exe

Related to Iomega removable storage products. What does it do and is it required?

U

AdSubtract

adsub.exe

AdSubtract filters advertisment and cookie content from web pages and prevents cookie information from going out to web servers, freeing you from many of the annoyances, intrusions on your privacy, and security risks systemic on the modern web. Filtered content is most often removed from web pages before they reach your browser, thus saving time and resources necessary to download unwanted content

?

ADUserMon

ADUserMon.exe

Related to Iomega removable storage products. What does it do and is it required?

U

AEZBProc

aptezbp.exe

IBM Aptiva keyboard customizer - enables certain special buttons on keyboard for cd operation, volume control, and few quickstart buttons. Keyboard will work without it but you lose the special functions

N

Agent

Agent.exe

Cyberlink Power VCR II 3.0 is a tv tuner recording utility. If you want to schedule recordings, you will need this, otherwise can be disabled. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

AGSatellite

AGSatellite.exe

A Program from AudioGalaxy that lets you download some Mp3’s from their server. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

?

AHQInit

ahqinit.exe

Possible addition to/replacement for AudioHQ for later versions of Soundblaster Live! Liveware software?

N

AIM

aim.exe

AOL Instant Messager. If connected to the internet, automatically runs up AIM. Convenience more than anything. AIM can be started from Start -> Programs

X

AIM reminder

AIM reminder.exe

Added as a result of a VIRUS! See here

N

Album Fast Start

ABMTSR.EXE

Scanner software, not required for scanner to work. If unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

N

Alexa

Alexa.exe?

The Alexa Toolbar is a downloadable toolbar that helps you navigate the Internet as you surf, by instantly providing you with related information about the site you're viewing. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

U

Alogserv

Alogserv.exe

From McAfee VirusScan for logging scanning activities. In some cases, if left running it can cause CPU % useage to go between 5-95% or goto and stay at 100%. Disabling it impacts on the reported last scan date. It is reported to cause jerky graphics response in many games. Note that as of version 6, this is a critical component of McAfee and disabling it can cause a PC to lock up

U

AlpsPoint

Apoint.exe

Touchpad software for laptop PC's. For instance it is found on the Panasonic machines and allows part of the touchpad to be used for document or Web-page scrolling. Required for proper functioning of the pointing software but not required for the laptop to work

N

America Online *.* Tray Icon

aoltray.exe

Puts AOL icon in System Tray (*.* denotes version if present). Not required. You can connect to AOL without using this via a desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs

N

Announcements

Annclist.exe

Microsoft WebTV for Windows. Used to display TV on your PC via a compatible video card with in-built tuner (such as ATI All-In-Wonder). If you don't use it - uninstall it

U

anvshell

anvshell.exe

System Tray tool for ASUS video cards. If disabled you lose all the ASUS specific video card options in Control Panel -> Display Properties -> Advanced as well as the systray shortcuts toolbar

N

AolFix

AolFix.exe

This is a program that is run on Gateway Astra computers, and maybe a few others. It was designed to repair a bad registry key in Gateway computers that would not allow AOL  to run correctly. Not seen much anymore and should only run once

Y

apc_tray

apc_tray.exe

Part of the APC UPS software loaded with the BACK-UPS CS 350 unit. Required to monitor the APC unit in case of power failure.

U

Appcon

vAppCon.exe

Vital Applicaton Console - part of POS-partner 2000 from Vital - "PC-based, point-of-sale software that enables merchants and businesses to conduct commerce with many kinds of payments including cards and checks." This is the taskbar icon and is enabled at startup by the "Auto-start when OS starts" option. Required for a connection to be established. You can start it manually when required by creating your own shortcut

?

Apvxd

APVXDWIN.EXE

Part of Panda Anti-Virus. What is this part and is it needed?

?

Apvxdwin

APVXDWIN.EXE

Part of Panda Anti-Virus. What is this part and is it needed?

N

ARCSolo Recovery

N/A

Backup software by Computer Assocaites - no longer being supported. Not required

?

Astro

Atro.exe

Quicken option

N

ASUSKey

V38SHELL.EXE

System Tray Icon for quickly changing video modes. Not required

U

ASUS SmartDoctor

VGAProbe.exe

ASUS video card fan/thermal monitor

U

ASUS TweakEnable

astart.exe

Restores manually changed settings for ASUS based video cards such as overclocking. Only required if you use non-standard settings

?

Ati2cwxx

Ati2cwxx.exe

For some ATI video cards. Probably used to access features and may not be required - for example the ATI Radeon works fine without it 

U

AtiCwd
AtiCwd32

AtiCwd.exe
AtiCwd32.exe
Ati2cwad.exe

This utility adds the ATI tab in the advanced display properties (gives the option for TV out). Do not uncheck if there is TV out on the video card

N

AtiKey

AtiKey32.exe
atiptkad.exe

Provides System Tray access and key-combo shortcuts to common display functions on ATI video cards. Can be run from Start-> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Not required

?

ATIPOLAB

ati2evxx.exe

For some ATI video cards. Probably used to access features and may not be required - for example the ATI Radeon works fine without it 

U

AtiQiPcl

AtiQiPcl.exe

Used for hardware DVD decoding on ATI video cards supporting this feature. Not required unless you regularily play DVD's

U

AtiPTA

Ati2ptxx.exe
Atiptaxx.exe

Control panel for the ATI series of video cards allowing access to such features as display resolution, colour depth, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display - not required. Some users may need it if they have optimized their settings

N

ATI GART Set-up Utility

Atigart.exe

Program that checks the motherboard CHIPSET and determines which GART driver bundle to install on ATI video cards. If you have one, once installed it shouldn't be needed

U

ATI Lauchpad

launchpd.exe

ATI LaunchPad provides a convenient way to start all your Multimedia Center applications (DVD player, Video CD, CD Audio, File Player). Just click the feature you want. When you start your computer, LaunchPad opens automatically, or you can right-click LaunchPad, and uncheck Load on Startup in the menu. Not required

N

ATI Scheduler

Atisched.exe

Component that remains resident in memory and automatically launches the ATI VIDEO PLAYER at a user selected time and date. Delete the shortcut in the Start -> Programs -> Startup folder as well. Functions could re-enable the program to load at start-up and re-introduce the shortcut. Try it and see

N

ATI Task Application (Atikey)

Atitask.exe

Provides System Tray access and key-combo shortcuts to common display functions on ATI video cards. Can be run from Start-> Settings -> Control Panel -> Display. Not required

N

ATI Task Application

Atitkad.exe

System tray access to common display functions on ATI video cards. As above

N

ATnotes

atnotes.exe

Loads the atnotes program for virtual sticky notes for your desktop. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

Atomica

atomica.exe

Atomica is a program that runs out of the System Tray and allows the user to find out more about a word or phrase (such as definition) on any screen by pointing at it with the mouse and clicking button one while holding down the Alt key. Not required

U

Atrack

atrack.exe

New feature of Norton Internet Security (NIS) and Norton Personal Firewall (NPF) 3.0 is the Alert Tracker, an instant notification feature. The Alert Tracker displays information about events as they happen. This way, when a rule has been triggered or an access to the Internet made, you know about it immediately rather than finding out about it hours or even days later when you happen to check your logs or notice that the NIS icon indicates a security alert

U

ATTRedUpdate

AutoUpdate.exe

Additional item added to start-ups after AT&T took over the now bankrupt Excite@home high-speed internet service. It's included for automatically downloading and installing updates. Leave it unless you plan to regularily run it to check for updates. If it can't be run manually via Start -> Programs try and create your own shortcut

X

AttuneClientEngine

attune_ce.exe

Attune is a revolutionary service that provides you with targeted Intelligram messages to help you avoid common computer problems. Attune may also let you know when you need a specific product, service, or upgrade to optimize the use of your computer. Not required. Also reported to be spyware here

X

AttuneContentUpdater

attune_cu.exe

Related to the above. All needed for the program to do it's job properly

X

AttuneDiscovery

attune_di.exe

Related to the above. All needed for the program to do it's job properly

X

AttuneSystray

attune_st.exe

Related to the above. All needed for the program to do it's job properly

N

AudioHQ

Ahqtb.exe

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. System tray application for SB Live! functions. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

AutoEA

Ahqrun.exe

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. Specify for any audio application what audio preset to automatically associate with currently active speaker output. Available via AudioHQ - not required

N

AutoMate Task Service 

automate.exe

Task scheduler for Unisyn Automate 4. AutoMate is a very capable task automatisation / macro running software. If you want to run your AutoMate tasks with keyboard shortcuts, or you have scheduled AutoMate tasks, you need this to run. Available via a desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs - not required

N

Automatically launches the United Devices Agent when you start your computer       

UD.EXE

The United Devices Agent can recycle your PC's unused resources and use them to perform valuable scientific and medical research without disturbing your usual computer use - similar to SETI@home but for medical research. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

Y

Aureal A3D Interactive Audio

sa3dsrv.exe

For Aureal based 3D soundcards. A3D sound features won't work with this disabled

Y

Aureal A3D Interactive Audio Init

A3dInit.exe

For Aureal based 3D soundcards. A3D sound features won't work with this disabled

X

ausvc

ausvc.exe

Added as a result of a VIRUS! See here and here. May also be related to the "COMMON NAME" toolbar installed with KaZaA as reported by one visitor. Can anyone confirm if these are indeed related?

N

AUTOPROP

REGPROP.EXE
WMPADDIN.DLL

Both the files are in the MS Office/Bots/FP_WMP directory. Apparently, it registers the FrontPage WiMP extension, although why they have to do it in such a clumsy manner is anyone's guess

?

AutoShutdown

pssvc.exe

Utility to fix vCard Export in Microsoft Outlook 2000 - although why are these together?

U

AvconsoleEXE

Avconsol.exe

From McAfee VirusScan up to version 4.x and Dr Solomon's VirusScan. Used to schedule regular scans. If you don't have scans scheduled you don't need it

?

AveoAttune

atmdlusr.exe

USR (US Robotics) modem auto updater?. May be a sub-set of "Attune" (listed under A). Should be able to create your own shortcut and run it manually

Y

AVG_CC

avgcc32.exe /startup

AVG anti-virus control center. Loads a System Tray icon that let's you access the antivirus program. Also enables the E-mail pluggin

Y

Avgserv9.exe

Avgserv9.exe

Background monitoring program for AVG anti-virus. Required if that is your anti-virus program

Program

Executable

Comments

X

b3d

BDEsecureinstall.exe

Installed along with the KaZaA file sharing utility. Causes a program called "ZUPDATE.EXE" to periodically try and access the internet. (1) Uninstall it via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> Add/Remove Programs. (2) Remove the BDEsecureinstall.exe if still present in C:\Windows\System. (3) Disable and ideally delete it from the registry. (4) Remove the "BDE" directory and all it's contents

X

b3dUpdate

Zupdate.exe

Same as above but not installed via KaZaA

N

Babylon Translator

Babylon.exe

Babylon-Pro is a powerful online information tool with offline capabilities and special features that brings you information customized to meet your specific needs. Babylon-Pro instantly provides relevant information about any word or value that you click on. Get information and translations from top glossaries. Experience our converter conversion feature, text-to-speech feature, and explore the Web using our many search engines. Not required

N

BackWeb

backweb.exe

Automatically detects internet connection and downloads any available updates. Typical on Compaq and HP PC's but not restricted to those OEM's. Resource hog and often causes malfunctions. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

X

bargains

bargains.exe

BARGAINS.EXE (Bargain Buddy) - appears to be advertising spyware installed with Net2Phone & LimeWire amongst others. Some further information here. Check here or here for information about Spyware

?

Batchreg1

N/A

??

U

Battery Scope

batmgr.exe

Monitors battery levels on a notebook/laptop PC

U

BayMgr

DockApp.exe

Hot-swappable drive management on laptops which allows you to swap battery, DVD, CD, etc without closing down Windows. Only required if you frequently swap bay devices 

U

Bayswap

bayswap.exe

Hot-swappable drive on Compaq Notebooks which can be a Floppy or a CD/CDRW/DVD. It allows you to swap the drive without shutting down Windows. Only required if you frequently swap bay devices

U

Bayswap2

TbUpdate.exe

Also to do with hot-swappable drives on Compaq Notebooks. Only required if you frequently swap bay devices

U

BCDetect

bcdetect.exe

Bcdetect.exe searches the system to make sure Creative drivers are installed for the video card. It loads the BlasterControl when the drivers are detected. Your choice - try it and see

U

BCMHal

bcmhal9x.dll,bcinit

BlasterControl for Creative video cards. An easy-to-use utility that delivers comprehensive controls for desktop settings, monitor configuration, color adjustments and performance tuning as well as useful information about your adapter. May be needed to retain settings

Y

BCMDMMSG

bcmdmmsg.exe

For BCM V.90 56k modems - "modem messaging applet". Required for dial-up if you have one of these modems

U

BCTweak

bctweak.exe

BlasterControl for Creative video cards. An easy-to-use utility that delivers comprehensive controls for desktop settings, monitor configuration, color adjustments and performance tuning as well as useful information about your adapter. May be needed to retain settings

N

BHOCop

BHOCop.exe

ZDNet's BHO Cop that let's you see what browser helper objects are installed. Useful for detecting spyware. Not required

N

bigfix

BIGFIX.EXE

As an application running on your computer, BigFix can automatically download and read technical support information provided by computer and software manufacturers and other technical support experts (published in the form of Fixlet® Messages) and can automatically check your computer for bugs, configuration conflicts, and security holes. Should only be started manually as it's a resource hog

N

Billminder

Billmind.exe

Can be setup in Quicken to remind user of due payments. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

bjcfd

cdf.exe

Loaded from the install disk along with tgcmd.exe when Charter Communications changed over from @Home to their own Pipeline high speed cable service. A visitor states "In an e-mail to Charter asking what it did, I was told it's a troubleshooting tool that was not fully developed yet. It had asked for server rights through my fire wall". Disabled without causing a problem

N

BJ Status Monitor 500

CJSTR2V.EXE

Canon printer status monitor. Not required as you can check the printer status via My Computer -> Printers

N

BlackIce Utility

blackice.exe

Loads the user interface for the BlackIce Defender firewall program. From the parent site - '(the user interface) starts in the "Startup" menu and adds itself to the taskbar. The user interface is independent from the rest of the system and only displays the output or reconfigures the system. It does not need to be running for the rest of the system to run.' See also LoadBlackD under L

U

BlockAds

Blads.exe

A Tweak-XP component, blocks advertisement banners in Internet Explorer. Can be enabled/disabled via Tweak-XP / Internet Tweaks

N

BLSTAPP

blstapp.exe

Puts access to Creative's BlasterControl in the System Tray

N

BMail Installation

FTP_back.exe

Installed as part of iMesh - a file sharing system. Reported by Norton Antirus as a trojan. Once deleted does not prevent file sharing working. Older versions of iMesh re-instate this but the newer versions do not. Not required.

U

BMO MasterCard Wallet

EWALLET.EXE

The wallet conveniently stores billing, shipping and payment information on your PC

N

BMupdate

BMupdate.exe

Related to BookmarkCentral below. Typically added after downloading drivers for Visioneer scanners for example, and you install the driver self-install

U

bombshel

BOMB32.EXE

Part of McAfee Nuts & Bolts. Protects your Windows system from application failure and crashes - similar to Norton Crashguard. Your choice - may cause problems

N

Bonzi Buddy

??

Uses MS Agents, software can read emails, tell jokes. Available via Start -> Programs - not required. Also reported as being Spyware.  Check here or here for information about Spyware and here for removal instructions 

N

BookmarkCentral

BMLauncher.exe

Bookmark Express - offers a more flexible way to manage Web site bookmarks, regardless of which browser you use. Not required

U

BootStatus

BOOTST~1.EXE

A small visual basic program that pups up a small window on startup telling you how many times the machine has been booted that day.  Once you exit it, it has no more effect on resources

N

Bose Wave/PC Monitor

wavepcmonitor.exe

Puts an icon in the System Tray for this system (more info on the system here). Available via Start -> Programs - not required

U

bpcpost.exe

bpcpost.exe

Microsoft TV Viewer Post Setup Program. Part of Microsoft WebTV for Windows. Used to display TV on your PC via a compatible video card with in-built tuner (such as ATI All-In-Wonder). If you don't use it - uninstall it

N

Broadband Wizard

bbwiz.exe

Starts the Broadband Wizard so it runs in the System Tray. This application tests and optimizes your Cable or DSL connection. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

BrowserWebCheck

loadwc.exe

Checks to make sure that IE is still your default browser. Not required

U

Button Server

bttnserv.exe

Found on a Compaq PC is for the extra buttons on the keyboard for the speaker volume, media player, sleep and internet buttons. If the buttons aren't used on the keyboard, or the keyboard does not have them, then it isn't required

U

Buzof.exe

buzof.exe

Buzof from Basta Computing "enables you to automatically answer, close or minimize virtually any recurring window including messages, prompts, and dialog boxes"

X

Bymer.Scanner

??

Added as a result of a VIRUS!. See here for more info

Program

Executable

Comments

U

C2K

CYB2K.EXE

CYBERsitter 2000 or 2001 -  anti-porn filter prmarily. Required if you want the sites you visit filtered without having to load the software everytime you launch your browser

N

Cacheman

Cacheman.exe

Popular freeware disk cache tweaker from http://www.outertech.com/. Should only be run once and not loaded at start-up

X

cAgOu

<filename>.hta

Virus!. See here for more info

N

CallControl

ftctrl32.exe

FaxTalk Messenger Pro is a Windows TAPI based 32-bit application. When installed, the software automatically loads FaxTalk CallControl when you start Windows. When FaxTalk CallControl is running, any TAPI compliant application can request to use the modem from Windows. Not required

N

Camio Viewer 3.2

ixapplet.exe

Image viewing program that comes with digital cameras. Shows pictures that are in the camera before downloading them. Not required - if unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

N

Cal Reminder Shortcut

calrem.exe

Produces a pop-up reminder of events scheduled using the MS Office Calendar. Not required

N

Card Monitor

REGCNT09.exe

For the USB connection on a Panasonic PV-DV701 Digital Camcorder. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

U

CBWAttn

cbwattn.exe

For Compaq PC's. Required for Bitware to answer incoming faxes, can cause sleep mode problems

U

CBWHost

cbwhost.exe

For Compaq PC's. Required for Bitware to answer incoming faxes, can cause sleep mode problems

X

CC2KUI

comet.exe

Comet Cursor - displays different mouse pointers dependent upon the site your visiting. Also reported as being Advertising Spyware. Check here or here for information about Spyware and here for removal instructions. Not required

?

CCDoctorLogonTesting

ccdoctor.exe /LogonStartup

From Rational Clear Case - what does it do and is it needed?

N

??

CDANTSRV.exe

C-Dilla License Management software Win2k. This is used for any program that uses C-dilla Protection, example: 3D Studio Max 4.x. It loads as a service automatically but is not needed unless you run said program. That and Flexlm are both secure licensing engines that consume resources but are never accessed unless running the specific programs. Can be started and stopped manually

N

CDInterceptor

cdi.exe

CD indexer for measuring the speed of cd players - not needed

?

ChangeLines

chngline.exe

??

?

CheckMsgPlus

MsgPlusH.dll,
VerifyInstallation

Added by MSN Messenger Plus, a third party extension to MSN Messenger. Not sure if it's required or not

X

Choke

Choke.exe-blahh

Virus!. See here for more info

U

CHotKey

mhotkey.exe

Enables special keys on Chicony keyboards. Special combinations includes Internet, email, vol+, vol-, mute, etc. Only required for extended features

N

Christmas Music Player

TTEST6.EXE

"Christmas Music Player brings the music of the Christmas Holiday to your desktop. 40 different holiday music favorites play in the background as you continue to work on other tasks. You can chose between random or sequential playback. Christmas Music Player is a fantastic way to enjoy the music of the holiday season." Not required

?

ChromeMark

keysh.exe

Related to this. Don't know what keysh.exe does though and if it's required

N

CIJ3P2PSERVER

CIJ3P2PS.EXE

Compaq printer utility which is required in the startup menu in order to make the printer work correctly. Not required. If unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

U

CleanSweep Smart Sweep- Internet Sweep

Csinsm32.exe

Automatic logging of installs from Norton CleanSweep - available via Start -> Programs

N

CleanSweep Useage Watch

CSUSEM32.EXE

Quaterdeck/Norton CleanSweep component that tracks how often you use files and alerts you to files that have not been used for a specified period of time. Not required

?

Click Radio Tuner

clickr~1.exe

??

N

Clik Status Monitor

toolsclickstat.exe

Part of Iomega Tools to let you know whether an Iomega PocketZip (nee Clik) removable drive cartridge is installed

N

Clickoff

Clickoff.exe

A program that automatically dismisses annoying dialog boxes. Not required

N

CLICKTHEBUTTON

CTB.EXE

A so-called "essential utility" by the people who supply it - here. It can't be that essential if I've only just found out about it. Personally I think it's not needed but you may if you do a lot of on-line shopping. It also gets installed with Bonzi Buddy

N

Client Access Check Version

cwbckver.exe LOGIN

Part of IBM AS/400 Client Access. Checks the software version on your PC to that of the AS/400 it is connected to.  It is not needed - and can be turned off in the Client Access properties. It's a waste of resources

N

Client Access Help Update

cwbinhlp.exe

Part of IBM AS/400 Client Access. It only updates the help files on your PC to match the level of the attached AS/400. Not required

N

Client Access Service

CwbSvStr.Exe

Part of IBM AS/400 Client Access. Useful if you are going to access the AS/400 through Windows Explorer to move files back and forth between Windows folders and AS/400 folders. This is a tool that is only used by Client Access administrators (usually) so it is not needed - a waste of resources

?

CLMFrontPanel

N/A

??

N

ClipMate5x

ClipMt5x.exe

Clip Mate 5.x by Thornsoft. Utility that allows you to store more than one item in the clipboard. More information here. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

CloneCD

CloneCDTray.exe

System tray for CloneCD - the only useful option is "Hide CDR Media" only available via this tray. Not required - available via Start -> Programs (or create your own shortcut)

N

CISrvr Program

CISRVR.EXE

Related to internet setup on Compaq PC's. Not required

X

CMESys

CMESys.exe

Understood to be part of Gator advertising spyware. Check here or here for information about Spyware and here for removal instructions

U

CMPDPSRV

CMPDPSRV.EXE

Printer Driver Plus from ViewAhead Technology (formerly DeviceGuys, Inc.). "Printer Driver Plus seamlessly integrates all the necessary components of a printer driver, plus more." Installed with some Compaq and Lexmark printers. If you don't use your printer often create your own shortcut to start it manually when required

X

N/A

CNBABE.EXE

Appears to be spyware added by KAZAA (and maybe others) that displays pop-up ads whilst your browsing. Try here for a program called Adaw that may be able to remove it. Not required

N

Colorific Control Panel

Hgcctl95.exe

From E_Color. Colorific delivers accurate gamma and color temperature across your entire system - monitor to printer and digital camera to monitor. Not needed

N

COM-IP

COMIP.EXE

COM-IP Virtual Modem Driver (COM-IP Creates a Fake Serial Port that allows you to use older DOS Based Communications Programs over Telnet. Type atdt host.domain.com instead of atdt 5551212)

X

Comcast Support

tgkill.exe \/cleaneahtiaga/start

Comcast (the cable folks who are replacing @home in some parts of the USA) have struck a deal with Tioga to provide an "enhanced" support and self-repairing tool. This is "beta" at present and was made available to download by mistake at present. Remove via Start -> Settings -> Add/Remove Programs

?

CompaqHW Comp Manager

cpqhcm.exe

Running on a Compaq laptop - any ideas?

N

Compaq Internet Setup

inetwizard.exe

For Compaq PC's. Runs Compaq internet setup wizard and offers you to signup from ISP list. Not required

U

Compaq Knowledge Center

silent.exe & matcli.exe

For Compaq PC's. matcli.exe is a motive Assisant Command line interface that gathers information about your system's identity like your name email address, city, state, etc and gets written to a log file while silent.exe executes matcli.exe quietly in the background. Compaq Knowledge Center is required to run with the Help and Support program. If you uncheck Compaq Knowledge Center and and then run help and Support it will add another Compaq Knowledge Center in the startup menu. If you remove the Compaq Knowledge Center in the add/remove program some help menus in help and support will not be available like Fix my Presario, Preference, and Contact Technical Support. You decide.

U

Compaq PK Daemon

cpqkl.exe

For Compaq laptops for programming user configurable keys. Not required unless you use them

N

Compaq Video CD Watcher

??

For Compaq PC's. MPEG viewer. Not required

N

CompaqPrinTray

printray.exe

Puts printer icon in the System Tray. When this option is disabled you will no longer be able to access the Control Program or Printer Driver directly from your desktop but if unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

N

Compaq Message Server

COMPAQ-RBA.EXE

Applies to CPQBootPerfDB below as well. These files generate some kind of server or servlet that attempts to connect with Compaq online. They are like Trojans, but fairly harmless. They send information on the "Compaq Advisor/Compaq Message Screener" application that comes with every Compaq computer and provide feedback on how computer users use the Message Advisor. These messages appear occassionally and instruct and advise users on their computer and its use. They generally attempt to get you (these messages) to connect to Compaq's website. They may be safely disabled via (1) MSCONFIG or (2) Start -> Programs -> Compaq Advisor -> Advisor Settings under the "advanced" tab. Not required and can cause problems

N

CompaqSystray

cpqpscp.exe

Compaq System Tray icon. Not required

N

COMSMDEXE

comsmd.exe

3Com tray icon. Not required

U

ConfigSafe

CFGSAFE.EXE
or
AUTOCHK.EXE

Lets you identify changes to the registry, INI files, System asset files, system hardware, network connections, and operating system versions -- provides a restore function. Your choice

N

ConfigServices

??

Part of initial setup. Not required

N

Configuration Utililty

CONFIG.EXE

Controls linksys wireless connection. Not required - available from the Desktop

U

ConMgr.exe

conmgr.exe

Starts WinFax Pro at startup.  Required for Winfax to answer incoming faxes. You decide.

N

Controller

WFXCTL32.EXE

From Symantecs TalkWorks Pro and WinFax. Appears if you chose to have the program appear in the taskbar (System Tray) during installation and displays a yellow fax/telephone icon. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

Y

Cookie Pal

CPBRWTCH.EXE

Cookie interceptor and manager. Not essential to the computer but you may not want to go on-line without it! Allows you to decide which internet sites can add "cookies" related to their sites for the next time you return

U

Cool Desk

cdesk.exe

Cool Desk is a virtual desktops manager. Ever you wished to have several screens on your computer? Cool Desk creates up to 9 virtual desktops and offers you to have different windows on each of them. Not needed but may be of use to you

N

CoolSwitch

taskswitch.exe

ALT+TAB replacement Powertoy for Windows XP - enhances the graphics displayed when you want to switch between programs running full-screen. Not required

N

Corel Desktop Application Director

dad.exe??

The Desktop Application Director (DAD) gives you easy access to all Corel applications. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

Corel Registration

Remind32.exe

If you don't want to register Corel products and be reminded about it every 2 weeks disable it

N

Corel Registration Reminder

Remind32.exe

If you don't want to register Corel products and be reminded about it every 2 weeks disable it

?

CorelMedia FoldersIndexer8

MFINDE~1.EXE

??

N

CountrySelection

pctptt.exe

Country selection for a PCtel HSP56 based modem. Often found in OEM (Dell,Compaq, HP, etc) systems for their modems included on the motherboard or as a seperate card. Once you've set the modem up to the chosen country it's not required

U

CP32NOT

CP32BTN.EXE

This is the daemon for the programmable "one-touch" buttons on HP laptops (and others?). Safe to disable if you don't use these buttons. Your choice!

?

CPortPatch

cppatch.exe

CPortPatch is a utility is required for Dell laptops that are using a docking station. Is it needed though?

U

CPQAlert
or
Compaq Alerter

CPQAlert.exe

Compaq's Insight Manager Agent - a tool that allows for "fault, performance, and configuration management". Recommended for coporate users only. It's best removed if installed but not wanted, rather than disabled at startup. See here for more information

N

CPQBootPerfDB

CPQBootPerfDB.EXE

See Compaq Message Server above

N

CPQDFWAG

CpqDfwAg.exe

For Compaq PC's. Runs Compaq diags on every boot. Not required

U

CPQEASYACC

cpqeadm.exe

For Compaq PC's. Keyboard button support. Not required if you don't use these buttons

U

cpqeaui

cpqeaui.exe

For Compaq PC's. Keyboard button support. Not required if you don't use these buttons

U

CPQInet Runtime Service

CpqInet.exe

For Compaq PC's. Allows AOL and Compuserve to use the Easy Access buttons for the internet. May not be required if you don't use the ISP providers

N

CPQINKAGENT

cpqinkag.exe

That is the Compaq Ink Agent for some IJ printers, it lets EU's know when their ink cartridges are getting close to empty (by how many pages they have printed). Not required in startup

Y

CPQSTUTFIX

stutfix.exe

For Compaq PC's. Fixes audio stutter problems for ESS Maestro soundcards. You can download it here. This is a Compaq originated file and has been verified as free from virusses by McAfree/Norton

U

CPUcool

Cpucool.exe

Program to keep the processor cool when idle in "overclocked" systems. Also available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel

?

CQSCP2P SERVER

??

"Compaq printer utility which is required in the startup menu in order to make the printer work correctly". Personally I doubt whether it is actually needed. If unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

?

CQSCP2PS

??

"Compaq printer utility which is required in the startup menu in order to make the printer work correctly". Personally I doubt whether it is actually needed. If unavailable via Start -> Programs, create your own shortcut

N

CreateCD

Createcd.exe

Adaptec Easy CD Creator system tray application (pre version 5). Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

CreateCD50

Createcd50.exe

Adaptec Easy CD Creator version 5 system tray application. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

Creative AGP Wizard

agpwiz.exe

Part of Creative's BlasterControl

N

CreativeDiscNotifier

CTNOTIFY.EXE

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. Detects when you insert a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc. Available via Start -> Settings -> Control Panel - not required

U

CreativeMixer

CTMIX32.EXE

Creative soundcard System Tray access to, for example, volume slider controls as normally provided by the "speaker" icon. Not required unless you adjust any settings otherwise available via the standard icon

N

Creative Launcher

CTLauncher.exe

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. Adds a quick-launch bar to the top of the display and a System Tray icon. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

Creative Service for CDROM Access

Ctsvccda.exe

Resident program for Creative's PlayCenter included with Soundblaster Audigy sound cards - speeds up detection of some media CDs if the system doesn't natively support them. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

Creative PCI Audio Configuration Utility

starter.exe

Puts the an icon in system tray to configure a Creative Soundblaster PCI soundcard. Not required and re-instates itself when un-checked. Try one of the solutions on this special page. Similar to EnsoniqMixer

N

CriticalUpdate

Wucrtupd.exe

Microsoft Windows Critical Update Notification. If you want to keep Windows up-to-date, check the Windows Update site - not required

U

CSINJECT.EXE

CSINJECT.EXE

Part of Quarterdeck/Norton CleanSweep. For a full description see here. An excerpt - "Csinject must be loaded in order for Smart Sweep to automatically monitor installations and properly track registry changes."

U

CSS_Central

CSS_1631.EXE

CSS Communication Agent (95 Host) from Command Software Systems "CSS Central™ provides administrators with a powerfully proactive tool to effectively manage and maintain the anti-virus strategy from a centralized console."

?

ct

ct.exe

Found on a HP PC and stored in the C:\program files\HPSelect\Frontend directory. What is it, what does it do and is it needed?

N

CTAVTray

CTAvTray.exe

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. Plays the EAX animation on start-up and adds a System Tray icon for it. Available via AudioHQ - not required

U

ctfmon

ctfmon.exe

CTFMon is involved with the language/alternative input services in Office XP. CTFMON.exe will continue to put itself back into MSConfig when you run the Office XP apps as long as the Text Services and Speech applets in the Control Panel are enabled. Not required if you don't need these features. For more info on ctfmon see here

N

CTRegRun

CTRegRun.exe

For Creative Soundblaster Live! series soundcards. Reminds you to register your card with Creative. Not required

N

CTStartup

CTEaxSpl.exe

Splash screen WITH SOUND! every boot up installed with a Sound Blaster Audigy soundcard. Annoying and useless

U

CTsysVol

CTSYSVOL.exe

Associated with a Creative sound card, and adds volume controls to the Windows volume controls. Not required

N

CuteMX

CuteMX.EXE

Another Napster clone for sharing MP3 and other files - does not need anything to be loaded at start up to run properly

N

CXMon

Hpi_Monitor.exe

Installed with a HP digital camera. Autodetects when the camera is attached to the computer and launches the "HP Photoimaging Software". Not required as you can start the software manually via Start -> Programs

N

Cyber

cyberchk.exe

Likely to be found in a directory called "Belkin" and pops up a dialog box saying "Its time to Clean your Laser lens", with the window title "PMC Laser Lens", referring the CD/CDRW/DVD drives. Not required.If you find anything more please let me know

N

CyberMedia Agent

CMAGENT.EXE

Part of CyberMedia's Oil Change program. Not normally required. Note - if you have TextBridge, CyberMedia Agent may attach itself to TextBridge and cause TextBridge to crash everything if this is disabled

X

CyDoor

CT_Load.exe

Adware. Check here for information about Cy-Door and here for a program that can remove it. Not required

Program

Executable

Comments

N

D066U Utility

D066UUTY

TWAIN driver for the CanoScan D660U flatbed scanner. Not required, if a shortcut doesn't exist via Start -> Programs create your own shortcut to start it manually or start scanning via your scanner management software

Y

DadApp

dadapp.exe

"DadApp is the SW utility that controls the programmable buttons on Dell Laptops. Not Required, but should be left in because it can create a hassle and doesn't always restore functionality to those buttons once unchecked and rechecked" - direct from Dell

N

DACONFIGEXE

daconfig.exe

3Com NIC Diagnostics. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

Daemon

DAEMON32.EXE

Pre-loads game profiles for MS Sidewinder game controllers prior to release 2.0 of the software. Recommend upgrade. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

?

DashIE

N/A

Could be related to "Dash Power Shopping" tool bar in IE?

?

DataCaching

FlashKsk.exe

Related to SmartMedia Card management. This program appeared with the installation of a SanDisk reader for a camera's SmartMedia card. What does it do and is it required?

N

Data LifeGuard

BACKWE~1.EXE

Data LifeGuard diagnostic tools for Western Digital's series of hard drives. Not required

?

Datechecker

N/A

??

?

DAW9532.exe

DAW9532.EXE

??

N

??

dbserv.exe

Database Server for Norton Ghost on Win2k Pro. Ghost works fine when it is disabled

N

DCfssvc

dcfssvc.exe

Associated with digital cameras and known to cause problems which disappear if disabled. If this program is unchecked in startup, your camera will not cause your computer to open a pop-up window when you connect it. It is even money if you will be able to read the files off the camera without this - if necessary create your own shortcut

X

DDCMan

DDCMan.exe

Digital Distribution Channel from WildTangent. Based upon their own description I consider this to be blatant advertising: "WildTangent is creating a broad-reaching channel through which OEM's, portals, ISP's, advertisers, game publishers and developers alike can leverage the revenue opportunities provided by the next generation of online entertainment."

X

DDCActiveMenu

DDCActiveMenu.exe

As above

U

ddeproc

ddeproc.exe

Associated with "Webcelerator" (listed under W)

U

defwatch

defwatch.exe

Detects out-of-date virus definitions for Norton Anti-Virus Corporate Editionand runs the Defwatch Wizard. Only required if you don't update the virus definitions manually on a regular basis

N

Delay

delayrun.exe

HP "phone-home" application. Not required

?

Description of Shortcuts

*.exe

* seems to be a sequence of alphanumerics that can be different, i.e., 1960F8A9, 4EBD23F5, etc

N

DeskColor

DESKCOLOR.EXE

Provides transparent icon text backrounds and coloured icon text. Not required

U

DesktopX

DESKTOPX.EXE

A program that replaces the regular Desktop and Taskbar, and can be changed to the user's liking

?

Deskup

deskup.exe

Related to Iomega removable storage products. What does it do and is it required?

U

detect

idetect.exe

iNTERNET Turbo from Clasys Ltd. " It accelerates any Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP internet connection in seconds". If you find it helps your connectivity leave it enabled

?

detect

turbodetect.exe

??

N

Detector

detector.exe

USB port detector for LG scanners. It sits in the system tray, and when it detect the scanner thorugh the USB port, you can run the scanner software from the tray. It is not required at all, since you can use the scan software from almost any photo editing software

U

devldr16

devldr16.exe

Associated with some Creative Labs sound cards.  Provides audio support for DOS applications.  Not needed if you don't have those. Required if you use "Sound Play Control" and "Sound Recorder". To disable: (1) Disable via MSCONFIG (2) Start -> Settings -> Control Panel -> System -> Device Manager then disable "Creative SB16 Emulation" under Creative Miscellaneous Devices

N

DigiGuide

CLIENT.EXE
or
client01.exe

TV guide and reminder. Not required

N

Digital Dashboard

devgulp.exe

For Compaq PC's. Loads Digital Dashboard options. Not required

N

Digital River eBot

downlo~1.exe

Digital River Systems promotes a little program called EBOT for downloading software from their site. In some cases, if you purchase software online for a download from a software manufacturer, you will be sent to this online company's site for the download after the purchase is complete. Read more here

U

Dimension4

d4.exe

Atomic clock synchronisation freeware - starts-up, adjusts the system clock, then shuts down. Your choice

N

DirectCD

DirectCD.exe

DirectCD allows you (amongst other things) to drag and drop files onto a suitably formated CD-RW disc. Unless you use this on a frequent basis it isn't required an is available via Start -> Programs. Start the program before inserting a DirectCD formatted CD-RW in the drive. Also covered under "Adaptec DirectCD"

U

Dirkey

Dirkey.exe

Dirkey is a small utility that allows you to bookmark up to 9 folders by using the Ctrl+Alt+1..9 shortcut keys in an Open/Save File dialog or in Windows Explorer. After this the Ctrl+1..9 shortcut keys can be used in the same or an other window to go to any of the 9 bookmarked folders 

N

Disknag

disknag.exe

A Dell program that reminds you to make your  backup diskettes. Not required

N

Disc Detector

CtNotify.exe

For Creative sound cards. Detects when you insert a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc. Not required

?

disc detector

qnetquestnotifty.exe

??

?

discoveg

discoveg.exe

??

N

Distiller Assistant 3.01

DISTASST.EXE

From Adobe. Creates PDF universal files for Acrobat Reader. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

U

distributed.net client

DNETC.EXE

Dsitributed computing projects client from Distributed.net where numerous computers are used to share a projects workload - similar to SETI@Home and Folding@Home. Also prone to being distributed by viruses

N

DJREGFIX

regedit /s c:\hp\djregfix.reg

DJRegFix showed up first in WinME as a "clever" way to ensure that all Hewlett-Packard DeskJet printers actually worked with WinME - since most were having major problems. This "utility" adds the functionality and compatibility HP forgot to add in its WinME drivers. Not needed

U

DkService

DkService.exe

From Excutive Software's Diskeeper defragmenting utility - a replacement for Windows ScanDisk. Used to schedule defragmenting on a regular basis and not required if you do so manually on a regular basis

N

dla

tfswctrl.exe

Drive letter access to HP's and Veritas' version of Direct CD. Does the same thing as Direct CD. You'll need to start this before inserting a suitably formatted CD. Try and create your own shortcut to see if you can start it manually if one doesn't already exist

X

dlder

dlder.exe

Advertising Spyware. Check here or here for information about Spyware and here for a program that may remove it. Not required. Considered to be the worst so far - even creating a fake "explorer.exe" file. Can be installed via versions of "Grokster", "LimeWire" and "KaZaA" amongst other file-sharing utilities (see here). Reported in the past as a virus

?

DLForcerExe

DLForcerEXE.exe

??

?

DLHelperEXE

WATCH.exe

Another variant on this item perhaps? Found in C:\WINDOWS\TWAIN\_32\1200UB

N

DMILDR

dmildr.exe

Part of Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation - software that allows remote management application programs to access information about the client computer, monitor the status of the client computer, or change the state of the computer, such as shutting it down remotely. Dell OpenManage Client Instrumentation uses the desktop management interface (DMI) and/or common information model (CIM) protocols, which are systems management protocols defined by industry standards. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

DMISL

DMISL.EXE

DMI (Desktop Management Interface) Service Layer for Intel TokenExpress network card software. DMI support for the Intel network card managed through the Desktop Management Interface. See here for more information. Not required

N

DMISLAPP

DMISLAPP.exe

DMI (Desktop Management Software) similar to above

Y

DNE Binding Watchdog

rundll dnes.dll, DnDneCheckBindings

Deterministic NDIS Extender (DNE). DNE is an NDIS-compliant module which appears to be a network device driver to all protocol stacks and a protocol driver to all network device drivers. Part of Gilat Communications internet satellite systems. Required if you have this system. Also installed by Winproxy - a proxy program for sharing internet connections through one commputer. Required if you want it to work

Y

DNE DUN Watchdog

rundll dnes.dll, DnDneCheckDUN13

Deterministic NDIS Extender (DNE). DNE is an NDIS-compliant module which appears to be a network device driver to all protocol stacks and a protocol driver to all network device drivers. Part of Gilat Communications internet satellite systems. Required if you have this system. Also installed by Winproxy - a proxy program for sharing internet connections through one commputer. Required if you want it to work

?

DNS2GoClient

dns2goclient.exe

deerfield.com DNSGO

U

Don't Panic

dontpanicdemodp.exe

30-day trial version of Don't Panic privacy software from Panicware. "Clean up Internet tracks and quickly hide personal documents with this privacy suite."

U

Don't Panic Pop-Up Stopper

Dpps2.exe

Pop-Up Stopper Companion from Panicware. "The ultimate in pop-up window blocking technology integrated into an easy to use Internet Explorer toolbar." Note that the Pro version doesn't load in startup as it is installed as an Internet Explorer toolbar

?

Download Wonder

DownloadWonder.exe

??

?

dregfix

ph_finder.exe

??

?

dRMON SmartAgent

SmartAgt.exe

3Com networking software

X

Driver 32

Scam32.exe

Added as a result of the SIRCAM VIRUS!. See here or here for more details

Y

DSLagentexe

DSLagent.exe

Used in conjunction with USB connected ADSL modems from Eicon Networks (as used by BT for it's Broadband internet service for example). Required for a permanent ADSL connection

N

DSL Monitor

spdstrm.exe

Comes with Efficient Networks DSL Modems. Little red/green/yellow flashing icon in system tray - not required

X

DSS

dssagent.exe

DSSAgent by Brøderbund - spyware. Loaded on the computer without the users knowledge and is able to send encrypted emails about the system back to the originators of the program. Also a resource hog. See here for more info. Not required

?

DSSSGENS

dssagens.exe

??

N

DU Meter

DUMETER.EXE

Hagel Technologies internet bandwith monitor. Not required

N

dumprep 0 -k
or
dumprep 0 -u

dumprep 0 -k
or
dumprep 0 -u

Used in connection with memory dumps - you can disable these by - right clicking on My Computer, selecting Properties and then the Advanced tab. Click on the Settings button in 'Startup and Recovery'. In the bottom pane - under 'Write debugging information' - click on the down arrow and then select 'None' - OK your way out

?

dvpapi9x

DVPAPI9X.exe

Part of Command AntiVirus for Windows 95/98/Me. Is it needed?

N

DXM6Patch_981116

p_981116.exe

Win32 cabinet self extractor. More info here. Not required

N

dw

downloadware.exe

Believed to be a type of download manager. If you use it can you confirm this?

?

DZKillMe

DZSAVEME.EXE

??

Program

Executable

Comments

U

Eac Download

download.exe

Associated with "Webcelerator" (listed under W)

U

EACLEAN

eaclean.exe

For Compaq PC's. Easy Access button support for the keyboard. Not required if you don't use these buttons

N

Eapcisetup

sbsetup.exe

Rockwell RipTide soundcard application software. Sound works without it. Not required

N

EarthLink ToolBar 5.0

etoolbar.exe

EarthLink Toolbar is a tool to help you get to all of the resources of the internet. EarthLink 5.0 Setup adds a few basic buttons to the Toolbar, but you can delete these or add more buttons any time. Not required

U

Easy Key

easykey.exe

Possibly one touch keyboard settings for an E-Machine PC

?

Elbycheck

ElbyCheck.exe

From Elaborate Bytes who make CloneCD - monitors the installed filters of CD-ROMs/DVD-ROMs. Is it needed? Note - under Win2K removing this from startup causes the CD drive in the computer to not be reconized in the OS after rechecking it it prompt that the driver has been corrupted and asks you to restart the computer to fix it

N

elm

Elmenv.exe

ViaTech eLicense for securing, distributing and selling music online. Not required

Y

ElsaCapiCtl

Rcapi.exe

Assumed to stand for Remote Common Application Programming Interface (RCAPI), this was installed with an Elsa Microlink ISDN modem. If it is not there you can not bring up the dialog box which is sometimes needed to reset the modem

U

EM_EXEC

EM_EXEC.EXE

Logitech Mouseware driver. Needed to support some additional functionality of Logitech mice/trackballs, such as the middle button being set to double-click

N

EN4060C Taskbar

en4060ct.exe

Comes with Efficient Networks DSL Modems. Little red/green/yellow flashing icon in system tray - not required

N

Encarta Dictionary Quickshelf

QSHLFED.EXE

Provides quick access to Encarta's Dictionary features?. Not required

U

Encompass_ENCMONTR

ENCMONTR.EXE

Optional simple browser from Yahoo (Encompass)

N

ENCMONITOR

monitor.exe

The Encompass Monitor. This program is the Connect Direct Program.  It is more trouble than it is worth and few use it. Not required

N

Encoder Agent

WMENCAGT.EXE

Microsoft Windows Media Encoder, which already has a shortcut in the Start Menu if installed

N

EnsoniqMixer

starter.exe

Puts the Ensonic mixer in system tray. Not required and re-instates itself when un-checked. Try one of the solutions on this special page.
Similar to Creative PCI Audio Configuration Utility

U

eonemng

eOneMng.exe

eOne Manager, provides access to the buttons on the keyboard and on the front of the console for the eMachines eOne PC

N

EPSON Background Monitor

STMS.EXE

Supposed to keep an Epson printer ready for quick printing.  Users report little difference whether it is on or not. Not required

U

EpsonPhotoStarter

EPSON_PhotoStarter.exe

Only needed if you want to make full use of the capabilities of an Epson printer that included this 

N

EPSON Status Monitor 3 Environment Check

e_srcv03.exe

According to the Epson info: "Use this utility to automatically check for errors and also check the level of ink remaining." This utility can also be started on demand when about to print as follows: File menu > Print to bring up the print dialog box. Click on the Properties button which will bring up a display with 4 tabs. Click the Utility tab to get a list of utilities that can be executed including the Status Monitor 3 Environment Check. Not required

N

EReg

reg32.exe

EReg is a software registration tool incoporated on products such as those by Brøderbund, Connectix, Hewlett-Packard, The Learning Company, and Sierra. Needless to say you don't need it

N

Essdc

essdc.exe

Related to Ensonic sound cards. Not required

Y

ESSOLO

ESSOLO.exe

Sound card driver that re-instates itself every time it's removed

?

esspk

esspk.exe

??

N

Ethernet

tcaudiag.exe

3Com NIC Installation/Diagnostic MFC application. Not required - diagnostics may be run from the Start -> Programs

N

Etraffic

JavaRun.exe

Marketing software from TopMoxie. Not required

N

Event Reminder

pmremind.exe

A calendar/alarm program that installs with Brøderbund Printmaster. Not required

U

EVENTLISTENER

EvLstnr.exe

It is used with a Nikon digital camera to recognize when the camera is plugged in. If a shortcut isn't available via Start -> Programs try and create your own

N

eventmgr

eventmgr.exe

Used with a Microtek scanner. Manages the scanner's button events. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

evntsvc

evntsc.exe

Part of RealOne Player. It rechecks itself but you can disable it, renam the EXE to evntsvcBKUP.exe, shut down, booted again and it won't be running. You can also remove it from the registry once disabled

N

Excite Platform

Exlaunch.exe

Loads an Icon in the startup tray that allows you to receive service update notices for Excite@Home if you desire (note that since Excite@Home appear to be winding down this becomes irrelevant). May also allow you to kill the Excite Toolbar that automatically loads in Internet Explorer

U

Exif Launcher

Exiflaquickdcr.exe

USB mass storage driver used by some digital cameras such as the Fuji Finepix. Only required if you use it regularily. Try and create your own shortcut to see if you can start it manually

N

ExciteAssistantEXE

ASSISTANT.EXE

With Excite Assistant, you can access a wide variety of online information, including email, news, and stock quotes without having to have a browser window open. Not required

U

explorer

explorer.exe

Starts Windows Explorer. Unless this has been manually added to startups or added by another program it could be a virus such as PE_BISTRO

U

Exshow95

EXSHOW95.exe

Support software for some of the Kensington mice. Provides access to extra features like those available with enhanced Logitech and Microsoft devices. Your choice

N

Eye Tide Launcher

oneeyetideone.exe

Nascar wallpaper - not required

X

EZDesk

EZDESK.EXE

Utility that remembers icon locations for each user and resolution. Useful if you switch regularily but not required.

X

eZuluMain

eZuluMain.exe

Comes with "KaZaA" installation. Advertising Spyware. Check here or here for information about Spyware and here for a program that can remove it. Not required but KaZaA won't work

X

ezula

eZmmod.exe

Regarded as "theftware" and bundled with the popular iMesh and KaZaA file-sharing programs. Read here for more information

Program

Executable

Comments

N

FastUsr

fast.exe

Installs as part of Windows XP PowerToys as an option for very-fast user switching (allowing a keystoke to switch users instead of using the login screen). It is only used for the hot-key switch and yet it hogs 1.5 megs of memory in two separate processes (one run by the user & one by the system). 3 megs of memory for one stinking hot-key. It is an optional install in PowerToys

U

FatPipe

DHCP

Software enabling high speed internet browsing (2-4 times faster) and internet connection sharing for up to 5 users

U

Fatpipe Dialer

fpdialer.exe

See above

U

FEELitDeviceManager

feelitdm.exe

Associated with Immersion TouchSense devices (Logitech Wingman Force Feedback Mouse and possibly other peripherals). Your choice

U

Filterguard

Filtrgrd.exe

A Icon located in the lower left of the screen and looks like a lifesaver. This icon is a “short-cut” to access the basic features of SOS-Guardian, SOS-KidProof Lite, SOS Best Defense and SOS Pro such as Internet filtering utility. You can access this menu by “right-clicking” on the icon. Not required, create your own shortcut

X

Find Fast

Findfast.exe

Complete utter waste of space!. Part of Microsoft Office - searches disk drives for Office file types to make opening them easier. Not required

?

Find Virus Launch Program

fvlaunch.exe

??

N

FinePrint Dispatcher v4

FPDISP4A.EXE

FinePrint is a pseudo printer driver that intercepts normal single sided A4 jobs and turns them into double sided A5 booklets. If unavailable via Start -> Programs try create your own shortcut

Y

Fix-it

mxtask.exe

Part of Ontrack's Fix-it Utilities Suite. Loads a System Tray icon that lets you access the full program. Needed if you run the crash guard, intellicluster, anti-virus, or autoupdater. Otherwise not required

Y

Fix-it AV

memcheck.exe

Part of Ontrack's Fix-it Utilities Suite anti-virus. Performs a quick check of memory for signs of any virus. Exits afterward and returns all resources used in one users experience. Not required but could be left without a drain on resources

N

FlashPath Status
or
FlashPath Monitor

SDSTAT.EXE
or
FLSHSTAT.EXE

Launches a system tray icon that you can't get rid of - and does not need to run!. Tells you what the battery status is in the foppy disk adapter for the smartmedia cards. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

X

FlyswatDesktop

flydesk.exe

Whenever you load a new page, flyswat analyses the entire contents and creates on-the-fly hyperlinks -- called "flycons" -- for words and phrases it recognizes. More information here. Advertising Spyware. Check here or here for information about Spyware and here for a program that can remove it

U

FmctrlTray

Fmctrl.EXE

Genius SM-Live Control Panel. Enhances audio output through Genius sound cards (makes a big difference and worth the 3mb Ram use)

N

Folding@home

WINFAH.EXE

Folding@Home is a distributed computing project which studies protein folding, misfolding, aggregation, and related diseases - must be running in order to access the internet to upload to the servers. Available via Start -> Programs - not required

N

FotoStation Easy AutoLaunch

FotoStation Easy AutoLaunch.exe

Installed with a Nikon digital camera. Used to collect photos uploaded from camera program NkVwMon.exe If your camera is not connected (via USB port) you do not need this program loaded either. If a shortcut isn't available via Start -> Programs try and create your own so you can start it manually

N

Fpx

mnmsrvc.exe

Remote Desktop Sharing service part of Microsoft's Netmeeting allowing users to share items on there screens across remote locations. Not required

Y

Freedom

Freedom.exe

Zero Knowledge Freedom - Anti-Virus, Personal Firewall and Parental Control, it also blocks ads, safeguards your personal information, encrypts your passwords, and much more. Leave this enabled if it's your chosen anti-virus/firewall/etc

?

Free Downloads Monitor

fdcmon.exe

??

U

FreeMemVn2

FreeMem.exe

Some users swear by memory management utilities such as FreeMem Pro but others say you don't need them - especially if you have Win98 or WinME. See this article and make up your own mind

U

FreeMem Pro

FMEMPRO.EXE

Some users swear by memory management utilities such as FreeMem Pro but others say you don't need them - especially if you have Win98 or WinME. See this article and make up your own mind

N

FriendlyWebQuick-Launch

SELFCERT.EXE

selfcert.exe is a stand alone program for creating your own digital certificates for macros - the .exe is installed as an extra basically by clicking on Microsoft Office in add/remove programs and selecting remove - also i would do away with the FriendlyWebQuickLaunchBar as well

?

FSDPSRV

FSDPSRV.exe

??

U

F-StopW

F-StopW.exe

F-Prot antivirus background scanner by F-Risk Software. If this is your virus scanner leave it enabled. Also available via Start -> Programs

N

fwrastrc

fwrastrc.exe

Dial-up software for Friendly Technologies/1NationOnLine free ISP. Not required as you can create a shortcut on your Desktop from the C:/Dial-up Networking folder

Program

Executable

Comments