What is csrss.exe?

A Microsoft Windows file stored in the c:\windows\system32 or c:\winnt\system32 directory with a file description: “Client Server Runtime process.”

Is this file a spyware, trojan, or virus?

The csrss.exe file included with Microsoft Windows is not spyware, a trojan, or a virus. However, like any file on your computer, it can become corrupted by a virus, worm, or trojan. Antivirus programs can detect and clean this file if it’s infected. Because this file is part of Microsoft Windows, users should never delete or remove this file. If they think it is infected, let the antivirus program handle it.

Is it safe to remove csrss.exe from the Task Manager processes?

No. The csrss.exe is a critical system process that cannot be removed from the Task Manager without causing issues with Windows. When attempting to End Task csrss.exe, you receive the Unable to Terminate Process window with the error “This is a critical system process. Task Manager cannot end this process.” It is normal to receive this error.

The csrss.exe process using high CPU

The high CPU percentage usage issue is caused when your Microsoft Windows profile is corrupt. To resolve this issue, delete and recreate the profile. To do this, follow the steps below.

  • Backup all the files in My Documents as they are lost. We also recommend you back up any other important files you may be concerned about losing.
  • Log out of the account that is causing the problem and log into a different account. If you do not have another account, you can create a new account through the User Accounts icon in the Control Panel.
  • Once logged in to the account, right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties.
  • In the Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
  • On the Advanced tab, click the Settings button under User Profiles.
  • Finally, in the User Profiles window, highlight the name of the profile that is encountering this issue and click the Delete button.

Once the profile is deleted, you can recreate it if you want to use the same profile name.

  • See our file definition for further information and related links.
  • Microsoft Windows help and support.