| Status Code | Name | Command | Description |
| N | p_981116 | p_981116.exe | Win32 cabinet self extractor. More info here |
| U | PWS Tray | PwsTray.exe | Microsoft's Personal Web Server, an application which allows PCs to behave as web servers (allows you to test your .asp pages on your own PC without having to load them onto the internet). Available via Start -> Programs |
| U | PwrupTweakMe | PUPXPTWK.EXE | "Ashampoo PowerUp XP is a convenient tool for fine-tuning your Windows? NT4, 2000 and XP configuration to suit your precise needs and wishes. It gives you direct access to many frequently-required settings and parameters, enabling you to make your operating system behave the way you want." Boot-up options won't work if disabled |
| ? | Pwruplogin | pulogin.exe | ?? |
| U | Pwrsave | Pwrsave.exe | Toshiba Power Saver utilities. Required on a laptop if you run of a battery and want to conserve power |
| X | Pwroff | Pwroff.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| Y | Pwrmonit | Rundll32 PwrMonit.dll | IBM's proprietary 'battery maximiser' and power monitoring software for laptops |
| X | Pwr32mgt | Pwr32mgt.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pwr32ctrl | Pwr32ctrl.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pwr32ctr | Pwr32ctr.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| N | PVR | PVR.exe | Pocket Voice Recorder - freeware sound recorder that records from microphone and any other input line available with your sound card |
| X | putil | [filename] | Added by the LDPINCH TROJAN! |
| X | PutAS! | PutA!!.com | Added by the OPASERV.Z WORM! |
| X | PutA!! | PutA!!.exe | Added by the OPASERV.L WORM! |
| N | PUSH6599 | PUSH6599.EXE | Scan button monitor for Relysis Episode MF6599 USB scanner as you can start scanning manually via the scanning software |
| N | Push The Freakin' Button | ptfb.exe | Push the Freakin' Button - "When a dialog causes irritation, you simply tell PTFB which button should be pressed, and it will handle the dialog in future" |
| U | Purgative | PURGATIVE100.EXE | AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) Ad Remover Using Active Memory Edits instead of a patch/crack |
| N | Push Client | pull.exe | Client software from Interwise that MS use for their webcasts |
| N | Pure Networks Port Magic | PortAOL.exe | Pure Networks Port Magic, as available in the latest version of the AOL? 9.0 Optimized SE software; automatically configures most in-home Internet gateways, improving access and performance for applications such as instant messaging, online gaming, and streaming music and video. See here |
| N | PtUDFApp | PtUDFApp.exe | Sony abCD program, included on the CD Xtreme install CD, used to format CD-RWs for packet writing (similar to DirectCD). Available via Start -> Programs. Note that you must add a /T switch to the command line to get it to load to the taskbar |
| U | pttrun | pttrun.exe | Transmeta Crusoe processor related. Reduces application launch times and makes the computer "more responsive" |
| N | Ptsnoop | Ptsnoop.exe | These descriptions I've come across - all valid as far as I can see :- (1) Program installed with some modems that monitors the COM ports for the modem driver. Not required from what I've read - may need a registry edit to get rid of it (2) Backdoor trojan virus that copies itself as PTSNOOP.EXE -see here for more info(3) Apparently the people who put it out claim it's a driver for a Voice modems (don't know who they are though - Ed) Note: If using AOL and you disable this you may lose your connection or lock up (4) Can also be an older Logitech scanner program. Remove from the Win.ini tab under Load='path'PTSNOOP and the System.ini tab under drivers='path'ptrtkr.drb. Can cause parallel port conflicts big time dragging system resources way down when a conflict exists (5) Allows audio monitoring of modem phone dialling tones and can be useful if you have connection problems (6) Karen Kenworthy's Snooper - "logs the start and stop time of all programs run under Windows" |
| U | ptrun32 | ptrun32.exe | Parent Tools for AIM |
| N | ptfb | ptfb.exe | Push the Freakin' Button - "When a dialog causes irritation, you simply tell PTFB which button should be pressed, and it will handle the dialog in future" |
| ? | PSTORES | PSTORES.EXE | Part of Windows Services Protected Storage? |
| U | PsSound | PsSound.exe | On a Toshiba laptop. Operates your sound in one of 4 modes, off, on , on only with powerr, same as #3 but longer delay |
| U | PspContr | pspcontr.exe | Driver/controller for the Philips SpeechMike 6174. As the Philips FreeSpeech application is no longer supported it can be disabled but the Mike can still be used for certain functions using this driver |
| Y | PsPCCard | PsPCCard.EXE | Background Power Saving task found on Toshiba laptops and which handles turning Power Saving ON and OFF on any inserted PC Card (PCMCIA card). Only ever disable if you do not use any power saving or hibernation settings (ie: they are all OFF) |
| Y | PSNotify | psnotify.exe | Pharos SignUp Vx - "PC reservation and management application that addresses the PC scheduling needs of public libraries and higher education labs and libraries" |
| U | PsMFCard | PsMFCard.exe | Component of the Toshiba Controls. Provides power-saving functions for the PCMCIA slots. Through the Power Save Mode Properties dialogue, the user can select from 3 PCMCIA power options - On, Auto1 and Auto2. Disabling this item has no adverse effects, except disabling the ability to reduce power consumption by powering-down the PCMCIA slots when not in use |
| Y | PSIMSVC | PSIMSVC.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
|
| N | PSIWin2.3 Connection Server | Psconsv.exe | Allows connectivity between a PC and a Psion device. Access can be gained from the Desktop or Start -> Programs |
| U | PSFree | PSFree.exe | Pop-Up Stopper Free from Panicware. Pop-up blocker integrated into the IE toolbar. Note that the Pro version doesn't load in startup as it is installed as an Internet Explorer toolbar. Can cause problems with IE if you use WinXP and uninstall Service Pack 1. Uninstalling the software leaves it in the startup group |
| Y | PSDrvCheck | PSDrvCheck.exe | Part of Pinnacle Systems InstantCD/DVD and InstantCopy CD/DVD copying software that verifies drive settings. Once loaded it doesn't use any resources so you can leave it enabled |
| X | PSD Tools Channel | ChannelUp.exe | BuddyLinks adware |
| U | PS2 | ps2.exe | Multimedia Keyboard companion on HP computers. If this is prevented from starting, then some keyboard functionality will be lost. |
| X | prxtect | prxtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prdtect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth!
|
| X | prvtect | prvtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prdtect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | prrtect | prrtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | prttect | prttect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prxtect.exe, prdtect.exe and so forth!
|
| U | PRPCMonitor | PRPCUI.exe | Intel? SpeedStep? interface. This automatically detects whether a mobile PC is using battery or AC power. When using battery power, SpeedStep scales the processor clock frequency and voltage to reduce the power it needs by 40% |
| N | PROXOMITRON | PROXOM~1.EXE | HTML proxy |
| X | Protection | Protection.exe | Added by the FEBELNECK-A WORM!
|
| N | PROXOMITRON | PROXOMITRON.EXE | HTML proxy |
| X | Protection | [path] runtask.exe [path] protection.exe | Added by a variant of the AGENT.3.AU TROJAN!
|
| X | Protected Storage | RUNDLL32.EXE MSSIGN30.DLL ondll_reg | Added by a variant of the LOVGATE WORM! |
| U | Propel Accelerator | PropelAC.exe | Propel Internet Accelerator |
| U | ProPort Startup | ProPort.exe | Proport is a port monitor/protector. Monitors an infinite amount of ports for trojans and nukes. Some additional features are auto connection-kill, and IP resolving |
| U | PRONoMgrWired | PRONoMgr.exe | Intel?s Pro 100 Ethernet card manager |
| N | PRONoMgr.exe | PRONoMgr.exe | System Tray icon for Intel PRO series ethernet adapters giving access to the diagnostic features |
| N | Promon.exe | promon.exe | System Tray icon for Intel PRO series ethernet adapters giving access to the diagnostic features |
| X | PromulGate | PgMonitr.exe | Adware based media viewer by The Delfin Project |
| N | projselector | projselector.exe | Roxio Project Selector - can be started manually |
| ? | ProgramWindow | more comp.exe | ?? |
| X | Program in Windows | iexplore.exe | Added by a variant of the LOVGATE WORM! Note - this is not the legitimate Internet Explorer (iexplore.exe) process, which should not appear in Msconfig/Startup unless you add it manually! |
| X | Program File | Progmon.exe | Added by the PEEPER TROJAN! |
| X | Prog | lsass.exe | Added by the WEBUS.B TROJAN! Note - this is not the legitimate lsass.exe process, which should not appear in Msconfig/Startup! |
| X | Prog | csrss.exe | Added by the WEBUS TROJAN! Note - this is not the legitimate csrss.exe process, which should not appear in Msconfig/Startup! |
| N | Profiler | Profiler.exe | Enables the "Profiler" to be launched from a System Tray icon for Saitek's game controllers. Available via Start -> Programs |
| X | Profile | Profile.vbs | Added by the WHITEHO VIRUS or TRAPPY WORM! |
| N | ProDsl | ProDsl.exe | Intel Pro/DSL 2100 modem connection manager. Available via Start -> Programs |
| N | ProdikeysAutorun | Prodload.exe | Creative Prodikeys software. "an interactive music entertainment device which not only functions as a full-featured, ergonomic ?QWERTY? keyboard but also comes equipped with 37 touch-sensitive music keys and accessible music controls for endless entertainment at your desktop. Coupled with the Sound Blaster audio card, you can explore a wide array of realistic instrument sounds and have non-stop fun making music right at your desktop" |
| X | procmon | procmon.exe | Added by the BIONET.40A TROJAN! |
| U | ProcessSupervisorGUI | ProcessSupervisor.exe | Process Supervisor "is a technology designed to automatically configure and manage processes on one or more computers for the goal of maintaining system stability and responsiveness, restricting executables from running, and logging of program executions"
|
| U | ProcessGovernor | processgovernor.exe | Process Supervisor "is a technology designed to automatically configure and manage processes on one or more computers for the goal of maintaining system stability and responsiveness, restricting executables from running, and logging of program executions"
|
| ? | ProArt | ProArt.exe | ?? |
| U | Pro PCL Status Monitor | PENGSS.EXE | Xerox printer/fax/copier status monitor (PCL = printer control language) |
| U | PrnSys Executable | PrnSys.exe | Print screen utility bundled with some HP printer software - not required, but your choice if you like that feature |
| X | prmtect | prmtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prxtect.exe, prdtect.exe and so forth!
|
| X | prmt | prmt.exe | NetRatings software by Opistat. "OpiStat measures Internet usage anonymously and surveys participants according to their profiles and online habits". This software has been reported to get downloaded and installed automatically after a Grokster install. It anonymously collects your use of the Internet protocols (sites visited, Web pages, advertisements seen, electronic commerce, streaming). To be avoided! |
| X | prktect | prktect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | prjtect | prjtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | PrizeSurfer | prizesurfer.exe | "PrizeSurfer is the free software that automatically enters you to win cash and prizes just for surfing the web and shopping online!" Stealth installed malware |
| X | PrivateNet | [various filenames] | Premium rate adult content dialler |
| U | Privoxy | privoxy.exe | Privoxy - web proxy with advanced filtering capabilities for protecting privacy, filtering web page content, managing cookies, controlling access, and removing ads, banners, pop-ups and other obnoxious Internet junk |
| X | PrivacyScanner | pscan.exe | Privacy Champion, a stealth installed 'Privacy Scanner'. It purportedly scans your PC for links to porn websites, and then offers to "clean" them. Produces loads of False Positives as goad to purchase
|
| U | PRISMSTA.EXE | PRISMSTA.EXE | Creates a system tray icon for accessing information about Intersil Prism Wireless Settings. Intersil silicon is used by Trendware/Trendnet for example |
| N | Privacy Eraser Pro | PrivacyEraser.exe | Privacy Eraser Pro - protects your Internet privacy by cleaning up all Internet history tracks and past computer activities |
| X | PrintSpoolSv | System.exe | Added by the BDOOR-S TROJAN! |
| N | Printscreen 95 | PRT95MIN.EXE | Printscreen 95 - utility to capture, print or save the current window |
| N | PrinTray | Printray.exe | Lexmark/Compaq printer icon in the System Tray for quick access. Not required - uncheck via Printer configuration rather than MSCONFIG. See also LexmarkPrintray and CompaqPrinTray |
| N | PrintScreen | UNWISE.EXE | Gadwin PrintScreen - utility to capture, print or save the current window |
| N | Printkey2000 | printkey2000.exe | Screen grabber that intercepts the pressing of the Print Screen (Prn Scrn) key. Start manually when required |
| N | printnow | printnow.exe | PrintNow - a utility that primarily allows "Print Srceen" or "Alt+Print Screen" screenshots to be sent directly to a printer |
| X | PrinterSpool | [path] RESTORE.EXE [path] SPOOL.EXE | Added by the ALADINZ.K TROJAN! |
| ? | Printer Update | CFGREG.EXE | Maybe a registration reminder or automatically updates drivers or application software for a printer? |
| X | Printer | dipset.exe | Added by a variant of the FBSR TROJAN!
|
| N | Printer | [path to file] | Added by the LOWTAPER TROJAN! |
| X | Printer | Spyassault.exe | Dubious "spyware killer" - see here. To be avoided |
| X | Print Spooler | spools.exe | Added by the RBOT-LD WORM! |
| X | Print Spooler | spoolsvc32.exe | Added by the SDBOT.BB TROJAN! |
| X | Print Spooler | Spoolsv.exe | Added by the CIADOOR.B TROJAN! Note - "Spoolsv.exe" is located in the Windows or Winnt directory, and not in System32, like the legitimate Spoolsv.exe system file |
| X | print sharing | [path] hidden32.exe [path] explorer.exe | Added by the ZCREW.B TROJAN! Note - this is not the valid Windows Explorer (explorer.exe) |
| X | print sharing | start.bat | Added by the ZCREW TROJAN! |
| N | Print Screen Deluxe | psdeluxe.exe | Utility allows "Print Scrn" or "Print Screen" key to capture, print or save the current window |
| N | Print Master Event Reminder | PMremind.exe | Print Master Gold - calander feature that pops up reminders, such as birthdays |
| ? | Primsta | Primsta.exe | Linksys Wireless CompactFlash Card driver related. Is it required? |
| U | Primax 3D Mouse | 3dmoused.exe | Enables the scroll button on the Primax 3-D Scroll mouse |
| ? | PrimaLauncher | Launcher.exe | Associated with PrimaScan scanners. Is it required? |
| N | Price Patrol | neo.exe | Price Patrol by Half.com - internet shopping companion for finding the best on-line prices |
| X | prgtect | prgtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prxtect.exe, prdtect.exe and so forth!
|
| Y | PrevxHome | SAGUI.exe | PrevX Home intrusion prevention software |
| X | Premeter | prmt.exe | NetRatings software by Opistat . "OpiStat measures Internet usage anonymously and surveys participants according to their profiles and online habits". This software has been reported to get downloaded and installed automatically after a Grokster install. It anonymously collects your use of the Internet protocols (sites visited, Web pages, advertisements seen, electronic commerce, streaming). To be avoided! |
| X | Premeter | nrpr.exe | NetRatings software by Opistat . "OpiStat measures Internet usage anonymously and surveys participants according to their profiles and online habits". This software has been reported to get downloaded and installed automatically after a Grokster install. It anonymously collects your use of the Internet protocols (sites visited, Web pages, advertisements seen, electronic commerce, streaming). To be avoided! |
| ? | PreloadApp | hphprld.exe | HP Printer driver related? |
| Y | Preload | Preload.exe | Millenium Multi-Function Keyboard driver |
| X | precpop2 | starter.exe | PrecisionPop adware |
| X | Prein | APP****.tmp [* = random char or digit] | Unidentified adware |
| N | Precision Time Clock Checker | PrecisionTime.exe | Precision Time 2.0. Checks your computer clock time against the Naval Observatory or some other source to assure accurate time |
| ? | PreAnnotate | PreAnntt.exe | Genius Wizard Pen Tablet driver related. Is it required? |
| U | Prayer | PTW.EXE | Islamic Adhan program (call fpr daily prayers) |
| X | prdtect | prdtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth!
|
| U | PractiSearch | PSearch.exe | PractiSearch web search software |
| U | Praize Messenger | itLoad.exe | Praize IM Christian chat instant messenger |
| X | pqhelper | pqhelper.exe | Searchcentrix hijacker |
| N | PPWWebCap | PPWebCap.exe | "PaperPort" software associated with scanners |
| U | PPUpdate | ppupdater.exe | PPUpdater - "is the update program that ships with PestPatrol. It is able to update licensed and evaluation versions, and presents a visual display of what it is doing". Run manually unless you think you'll forget to check for updates on a regular basis |
| N | pptd40nt | pptd40nt.exe | "PaperPort" software associated with scanners |
| N | PProTray | pprotray.exe | Part of the power professional program. Loads the System Tray control |
| U | PPMemCheck | ppmemcheck.exe | PPMemCheck - "extends PestPatrol's power so that the most dangerous Pests -- those that are about to execute -- are found, terminated, and cleaned from a user's system" |
| U | PPK Setup(Server) | SEServe.exe | Programmable Power Key on Sony Vaio laptops. "Using the Programmable Power Key (PPK) button, collect your e-mail automatically with one key stroke. You can also program your PPK to turn on your SuperSlim Notebook at a predetermined time and perform simple tasks - completely unattended" |
| U | PPControl | PPControl.exe | PestPatrol Control Terminal - launches PestPatrol features such as PPMemCheck and CookiePatrol |
| U | ppass | Antispy.exe | AntiSpy firewall - "program designed to combat against various types of intrusion and monitoring programs currently in use or presently being developed worldwide" |
| Y | PP2000 Taskbar Control | PPTbc.exe | Protector Plus anti-virus software - system tray access |
| N | PP3100b | flatbed.exe | Twain driver for the Visioneer PaperPort 3100b scanner that allows you to scan, fax, copy, print, and easily communicate by simply dragging and dropping scans on your PaperPort Desktop |
| Y | PP2000 Real Time Scan | PPVstop.exe | Protector Plus anti-virus software - real time scanner |
| U | PP2000 Instaupdate | PPInupdt.exe | Protector Plus anti-virus software - instant update program for virus data updates. Not required if you regularly update virus data manually |
| N | PP****usb | FBDirect.exe | Software that monitors the status of a Visioneer OneTouch scanner button and allows you to scan, fax, copy, print, and easily communicate by simply dragging and dropping scans on your PaperPort Desktop!. The **** represents the model, 5300, 7600, etc. Available via Start -> Programs |
| U | Powertweak | PTCTRL.EXE | "Powertweak is designed to configure your system in the best way. A processor, the core of the system, or a chipset (a set of components that manage the data flows between the different parts of the system) can be configured." This item is added to startup if 'Configure system at logon' is enabled in the programs options |
| U | Powertweak | PT2.EXE | "Powertweak is designed to configure your system in the best way. A processor, the core of the system, or a chipset (a set of components that manage the data flows between the different parts of the system) can be configured." This item is added to startup if 'Use predefined settings' is enabled in the programs options |
| U | PowerTools Tray Icon | pttray.exe | PowerTools - add-on for AOL |
| N | PowerStrip | PSTRIP.EXE | PowerStrip is a Video Mode Editor to allow special Refresh Rates and Tweaking of Video Settings |
| N | PowerStrip | powerstrip.exe | PowerStrip is a Video Mode Editor to allow special Refresh Rates and Tweaking of Video Settings |
| ? | PowerSet | Regedit.exe /s ...PowerSet_8100_CU.REG | Appears to be Toshiba power management related |
| ? | PowerS | PowerS.exe | ProlinkTest for either their AGP graphics card or TV/FM capture card. Is it required?
|
| ? | POWERR~1 | POWERR~1.exe | Power monitoring? |
| N | PowerReg SchedulerV3 | PowerReg SchedulerV3.exe | PowerREGISTER from Leadertech. Registration reminder as used by Iomega, Hasbro & Microprose - amongst others |
| N | PowerReg SchedulerV2 | PowerReg SchedulerV2.exe | PowerREGISTER from Leadertech. Registration reminder as used by Iomega, Hasbro & Microprose - amongst others |
| N | PowerReg Scheduler | PowerReg Scheduler.exe | PowerREGISTER from Leadertech. Registration reminder as used by Iomega, Hasbro & Microprose - amongst others |
| X | PowerProf | PowerProf.exe | Added by the LOREX.B TROJAN! |
| N | PowerQuest Startup Utility | PQINIT.EXE | From a visitor - "This seems to be installed when you install Power Quest Partition Magic. I think that it implements the changes when you use the magic mover app. If you don't have any mappings set up, it does nothing (except waste bytes and cycles). I disabled it using msconfig.exe with no problems" |
| U | PowerPro | powerpro.exe | Part of the power professional program that loads the floating menu bar. Can be accessed from Start -> Programs, but I'd leave it alone if you use this program |
| Y | PowerPanel | POWPANEL.EXE | Power management utility on notebooks/laptops - automatically switches modes when running on battery |
| X | PowerPrifile | rundl132 kenel.dll, PowerProfileEnable | Added by the INMOTA WORM! |
| X | PowerManager | Svchost.exe | Added by the JEEFO VIRUS! Note - this is not the legitimate svchost.exe process which should NOT appear in Msconfig/Startup! |
| X | PowerManagement | Rundlll.exe | Added by the SURDUX TROJAN! |
| U | PowerKey | PowerKey.exe | Part of Acer Launch Manager - programmable keys on such laptops as the TravelMate 610 |
| N | PowerDVD | PowerDVD.exe | Launches Cyberlink's PowerDVD software and creates a system tray icon. If enabled, PowerDVD will open automatically when a DVD movie is inserted. Launch manually |
| U | PowerDOCSAPIHost | papihost.exe | Hummingbird PowerDOCS - "delivers powerful enterprise document management functionality via a tightly integrated Microsoft WinNT/98/2K environment" |
| Y | PowerChute | Pwrchute.exe | "During a power outage, if you're not available to save your files & close down Windows....PowerChute will do that for you. PowerChute will save your application files, close your applications and shut down your computer just like you would...otherwise, the APC UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) unit would go to battery until it wore down, then your computer would shutoff" |
| N | PowerBar | Powerbar.exe | Part of CyberLink's PowerDVD software. Not sure what exactly it does, but not required in startup |
| X | Power Scan | powerscan.exe | Foistware by Integrated Search Technologies - the people behind the ISTbar parasite |
| N | Post-It(r) Software | Psnotes.exe | Pop-up "yellow" notes on screen. Available via Start -> Programs |
| U | POW! | pow.exe | Pop-up killer |
| ? | POS-Partnerbatchprocessor | BATCH.EXE | VISA credit card batch processing related to Appcon. Is it needed or can it be started manually via Start -> Programs or a manually created shortcut? |
| U | PopUpWasher | PopUpWasher.exe | PopUpWasher pop-up killer |
| U | PopUpWatch | PopUpWatch.exe | Part of BPS Trace Remover - made by the folks who "developed" BPS Spyware Remover which reportedly uses an old, "borrowed" SpyBot database. Read this and this. Do not support these guys! |
| U | PopupVanish | PopupVanish.exe | Pop-up blocker |
| U | PopUpStopperProfessional | PopUpStopperProfessional.exe | Panicware's Pop-Up Stopper - paid for version |
| U | PopUpStopperFreeEdition | PSFREE.EXE | Panicware's Pop-Up Stopper - free limited features version |
| U | PopUpStopperCompanion | PSComp.exe | PopupStopper Companion popup blocker
|
| U | PopUpKiller | PopUpKiller.exe | PopUpKiller - pop-up killer |
| U | PopupEliminator | Popup Eliminator.exe | Popup Eliminator - pop-up killer |
| U | Popup Terminator | GLADManager.exe | Popup Terminator - pop-up killer |
| U | Popup Defender | PD.exe | Popup Defender - pop-up killer |
| X | Popup Defence Updater | regsvr32 /s [path] pdf****.dll [* = random char/digit] | SafeguardProtect/Veevo hijacker |
| X | Popup Blocker Updater | regsvr32 veev****.dll [**** = random char] | SafeguardProtect/Veevo hijacker
|
| U | Popup Ad Filter | PopFilter.exe | Popup Ad Filter - pop-up killer |
| U | PopSubtract | PopSub.exe | PopSubtract - pop-up killer |
| X | popsrv146 | popsrv146.exe | PeopleOnPage online dating browser enhancement - also adware and privacy issues, see here. For removal instructions see here |
| Y | Poproxy | POPROXY.EXE | Proxy E-mail protection from Norton Anti-Virus (prior to 2002). If you have it installed, leave it enabled to automatically check for suspect attachments in E-mails that may contain viruses. It downloads the E-mail into poproxy, which serves as a proxy server on the local machine, before scanning it |
| U | Popopen | popopen.exe | PopOpen makes your windows spring open with animation effects |
| U | PopOops | PopOops.exe | PopOops - pop-up killer |
| U | PopNot | PopNot.exe | PopNot - pop-up killer |
| Y | pop3trap.exe | pop3trap.exe | PC-Cillin 2000 antivirus software -> E-mail scanner |
| U | Pop-Up_Blocker | Popup.exe | A Tweak-XP component, blocks advertisement pop-up windows in Internet Explorer. Can be enabled/disabled via Tweak-XP -> Internet Tweaks |
| U | Pop-Up Smasher | PopupSmasher.exe | Pop-Up Smasher - pop-up killer |
| U | Pop-Up Stopper | dpps2.exe | Pop-Up Stopper Companion from Panicware. Pop-up blocker integrated into the IE toolbar. Note that the Pro version doesn't load in startup as it is installed as an Internet Explorer toolbar. Can cause problems with IE if you use WinXP and uninstall Service Pack 1. Uninstalling the software leaves it in the startup group |
| X | POP | PopSrv***.exe | PeopleonPage foistware, bundled with Grokster where *** are random digits |
| N | Points Manager | points manager.exe | Altnet Points Manager - manages the new Kazaa Plus scheme for awarding you points if you share music files on your machine with others rather than simply getting files and not sharing their own. Start manually when required |
| U | POINTER | point32.exe | Microsoft Intellipoint software for their Intellimouse series of mice - required if you use non-standard Windows driver features |
| U | point32 | point32.exe | Microsoft Intellipoint software for their Intellimouse series of mice - required if you use non-standard Windows driver features |
| X | Pofatch | nstrue.exe | Added by the RANDEX.Z WORM! |
| X | Poet | Poet.exe | Added by the DOEP.A WORM! |
| U | Pocket Sheet Sync | PSXLTRAY.EXE | Casio Pocket Sheet synchronization software |
| X | PNtask Services | pntask.exe | Added by the LALA.C TROJAN! |
| U | PNSetup | PNSetup.exe | PopNot - pop-up killer |
| X | pnpsvc_lock | startsvs.exe | Browser hijacker |
| X | pnpsvc_lock | ******.exe [* = random digit] | Browser hijacker |
| U | Pnpchk | Pnpchk.exe | Aztech Labs Sound 3 PnP driver |
| N | PNAgent | PNAgent.exe | PhatNoise Music Manager - manages WMA, MP3, WAV, etc music files |
| U | PMXInit | pmxinit.exe | Restores user display preferences Kyro2 based graphics cards. Not required unless you change the default settings - such as gamma |
| N | PMTSHOOT | pmtshoot.exe | MS tool for troubleshooting power management problems |
| ? | PmProxy | PmProxy.exe | Associated with Analog Devices "SoundMAX" audio chipset - often built-in to motherboards. What does it do and is it required? |
| X | pmr | pmr.exe | Powerstrip foistware variant |
| X | pmc | 764.exe | Adult content dialler |
| X | PMedia | winsrvc.exe | Internet marketing sofware from PMedia as used in E-Card FriendGreetings foistware - see here. Treated by Trend as the FRIENDGRT.B WORM! |
| X | pm32info | pm32info.exe | Added by the CRYPTER.A TROJAN! |
| X | pm32ctrl | pwr32crtl.exe | Added by the CRYPTER.A TROJAN! |
| N | PLXTASK | PLXTASK.EXE | Taskbar utility for a "control panel" for a Plextor CD-RW. Has MVP 2000 (audio CD player), DiscDupe 2000 (self explanatory CD copying program) and AudioCapture 2000 (rips audio CDs into MP3 or WAV files) |
| U | PLXSTART | PLXSTART.EXE | Sets the spindown timeout and access speeds at startup and displays the "Plextor Manager 2000" splash screen for Plextor CD-RW. |
| X | Plug And Play | msnmsg.exe | Added by the RBOT-ID WORM! |
| U | Pluck Tray | PluckTray.exe | RSS (XML TAGS) reader program |
| X | Plob | kernel.com | Added by the OPTIXPRO.12 TROJAN! |
| ? | PLoader | umsd.exe | USB Mass Storage Disk related tray icon. Is it required? |
| U | plmg.exe | plmg.exe | Paragon Last Minute Bidder - auction assistant software |
| N | Plguni | Plguni.exe | McAfee QuickClean 3.0 - removes internet clutter and unwanted programs |
| U | PLEAPCPUCPL | pleapu.exe | CPU Control Panel for the Powerleap CPU upgrade |
| X | PK Services | pksvc.exe | Added by the FORBOT-BW WORM!
|
| U | PktAnything | PocketCompanion.exe | PocketAnything lets you save anything on your computer to your mobile, with one click |
| U | pjWebCam | pjWebCam.exe | Webcam automation software that saves regular photos from webcam and can also act as HTTP server |
| X | Pixelsvr | Pixelsvr.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pixelpwr32 | Pixelpwr32.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pixel32 | Pixel32.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| N | PivotSoftware | wpctrl.exe | PivotPro from Portrait Studios - allows a screen to be rotated to match rotated LCD screens, for example). Shortcut available via Display Properties |
| N | Piracy | SysUtil.exe | Software Piracy Alert feature bundled with PGWare software. Cries foul when it detects an 'illegal' version. The alerts are reported to disappear as soon as the software is correctly registered. There are privacy issues though: "The Software includes a feature that assigns a unique order number to GameGain based on purchase information. The Software reports this number to us via the internet either when you run the Software or enter the registration number, or both. The Software may also identify and report to us your IP address, date and time of installation, registration and/or use. We use this information strictly to count the number of installations, detect unauthorized access or piracy of the Software, and develop rough statistical data regarding the geographic location of our users"
|
| N | Piolet | piolet.exe | Piolet - peer-to-peer file sharing client |
| Y | PinnacleDriverCheck | PSDrvCheck.exe | Part of Pinnacle Systems InstantCD/DVD and InstantCopy CD/DVD copying software that verifies drive settings. Once loaded it doesn't use any resources so you can leave it enabled |
| N | Pinger | pinger.exe | Pinger is the resident program for Toshiba updates. Periodically checks to see if there are any software/driver upgrades for your particular computer model. If it finds any, it posts a notification |
| X | pilif | pilif.exe | Added by the FILI WORM! |
| U | piiserviceOE | N/A | Spam Inspector (nee Postal Inspector) from The Giant Company or iHateSpam from Sunbelt Software - spam filter add-ons for OE |
| U | PiDunHK | PIDUNHK.EXE | Part of the Prodigy Internet software - part of the dialer/DUN. Presumably needed for users of that service otherwise you may not be able to connect, although you may try creating your own shortcut and see what happens |
| N | PICPRTR | PICPRTR.EXE | Program for viewing and measuring a variety of 3D CAD data formats |
| N | pictureBUZZTray | swtray.exe | System Tray access to PictureBUZZ on-line printing software from Streetwise Software. If you use the software set the page you use as a favourite in your browser and run it manually |
| N | Pickatag | pickatag.exe | Pick-a-tag - "Freeware utility for random selection of your taglines. This utility randomly picks a tagline out of a list of taglines. It will create a signature file which your mailer can use to place under your messages" |
| N | Picasa Media Detector | PicasaMediaDetector.exe | Media detector for Picasa's automatic photo organizer |
| N | PicasaNet | Hello.exe | Hello is an application that allows Blogger users to post digital photos and captions directly to their personal weblogs, or blogs |
| N | PhotoWise QuickLink | quicklnk.exe | Agfa PhotoWise - "PhotoWise QuickLinkTM lets you drag and drop photos right from the camera into your document (applications must be OLE-compliant). Use PhotoWise to print contact sheets and photographic prints. Create slide shows, screen savers, wallpaper and more." |
| N | Photo Loader supervisory | Plauto.exe | Casio's Photo Loader software. Hook up your camera to the USB port, and it pops up and asks you if you want to load your pictures |
| N | Photo Express Calendar Checker SE | CALCHECK.EXE | If you create multiple Weekly/Monthly/Yearly calendars to use as your wallpaper, Photo Express will replace the wallpaper automatically. Photo Express 2.0 has a calendar checker which checks the date on your system and updates your wallpaper accordingly |
| U | PhoneFree version 6.2 | PHONEF??.EXE | An Internet telephony application. Complicated registration and ad banners tailored to your profile - see here |
| N | PHIME2002ASync | TINTSETP.EXE | Part of Microsoft's Input Message Editor (IME) for translating Japanese/Chinese text in IE, Outlook and Word |
| N | Phime2002a | TINTSETP.EXE | Part of Microsoft's Input Message Editor (IME) for translating Japanese/Chinese text in IE, Outlook and Word |
| X | pgtaff | pgtaff.exe | AdRotator adware variant |
| X | PGStub.exe | [various filenames] | Unidentified adware |
| N | PGPtray | pgptray.exe | PGP 7.x. Provides icon tray shortcuts to PGP programs from Network Associates. Available via Start -> Programs |
| U | PGPSERVICE | pgpservice.exe | PGPservice.exe has two main purposes: (1) it handles a large part of the PGPnet functionality (along with the PGPnet driver) and (2) it allows efficient access to the PGP preferences database. The individual PGP modules normally access the preferences through PGPservice, but they are capable of a "fall-back" mode where they can handle such access on their own. Thus, if you are not running PGPnet, you may not immediately notice much of a difference if you disable PGPservice. If you are running PGPnet, you will notice a big difference |
| Y | PGPSDKSVC | pgpsdkserv.exe | PGPsdkServ.exe is the new SDK service which is responsible for performing all PGP key management and cryptographic functions. This functionality was moved into a service to allow multiple modules simultaneous read/write access to the keyrings, among other things. As you can imagine, it is necessary for PGPsdkServ to be running in order to perform practically any PGP functionality |
| X | PgMonitr | PgMonitr.exe | Adware based media viewer by The Delfin Project |
| ? | PFW_PullSrv | PULL.EXE | Personal Firewall related? |
| U | Petit Larousse 2001 | HIPL2000Popup.exe | Popup dictionary tool |
| ? | PFW_CfgEngine | PFWCFG~1.EXE | Personal Firewall related? |
| ? | PestPatrolCL | PestPatrolCL.exe | Associated with PestPatrol anti-malware software. What does this part do and is it required? |
| U | PestPatrol Control Center | PPControl.exe | PestPatrol Control Terminal - launches PestPatrol features such as PPMemCheck and CookiePatrol |
| U | Pervasive.SQL Workgroup Engine | W3dbsmgr.exe | Database Service Manager for Pervasive SQL 2000 Workgroup edition. Required if you use Pervasive SQL but it's recommended you start it manually before using it as it has a tendancy to crash/freeze if loaded with other applications at startup |
| X | Personal Firwall | ptmedsrv.exe | Added by the SDBOT.XY WORM!
|
| Y | PersFw | PersFw.exe | Kerio or Tiny Personal Firewall |
| Y | PER Email Protection | pavmail.exe | PER Antivirus |
| N | PerfectPrint | pfppop70.exe | Print engine used by Corel WordPerfect 7 and Presentations 7 |
| U | Pent@VALUE 3.2 | Pent@VALUE.exe | Pent@VALUE Digital Satellite Internet PC Receiver |
| N | PeerGuardian | PeerGuardian_1.99b_pr14.exe | PeerGuardian "is a tiny firewall program especially designed for P2P software users, but also for anyone who is concerned about the investigations that corporations and authorities perform on the internet. PeerGurdian blocks connections for the configured IP ranges and logs the blocked connections" |
| ? | Peeramid | PService.exe | In a "Koptimizer" folder in Program Files. What does it do and is it required? |
| N | Pe2ckfnt SE | chkfont.exe | Used to check whether the fonts are installed properly on your computer or not for a scanner. If you don't want to execute it, you can uncheck it in the startup menu |
| U | PDVDServ | PDVDServ.exe | Remote Control background application for CyberLink's PowerDVD version 5 and above. Enables you to use a remote control with your DVD drive if your drive came with one. Not required if you don't have a remote control, or don't wish to use one |
| N | PDirect | PDirect.exe | IBM Presentation Director software |
| U | pdp Server | ctpdpsrvr.exe | Included and setup with the drivers for my Compaq A3000 all-in-one printer/scanner - maybe for networking. Works fine without it - but may be needed when used over a network |
| N | pdfSaver3 | pdfSaver3.exe | PDF-XChange - create Adobe compatible PDF files from virtually any Windows software such as MS Word, Excel, AutoCAD, MS Publisher etc |
| N | pdexplo | PDEXPLO.EXE | PowerDesk Pro by Ontrack. Enhanced desktop and file manager. Available via Start -> Programs |
| N | pdfFactory Pro Dispatcher v1 | fppdis1.exe | "With pdfFactory you can create PDF documents from any program printing to the virtual PDF printer". Available via a desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs |
| U | PDEngine | PDEngine.exe | PerfectDisk from Raxco - disk defragmenter. Only required if you schedule disk defragmenting at re-boot |
| U | PCTVOICE | pctvoice.exe | The program PCTVoice is used by the modem to interface with your computer and also used for some V.80 functions for Video Conferencing. if you uncheck it, it comes back. It?s better to leave it |
| U | pctspk | pctspk.exe | Used for modems based upon PC-TEL chipsets. Normally used for some Voice and Speakerphone functions and also for some Power management options. If you remove it you may not be able to use any of those functions |
| N | PcSync | PcSync.exe | If a Nokia phone has been connected, synchronises the phone with MS Outlook or other organiser software. It is installed by the Nokia PC Suite, and the tray icon shows if a phone has been connected. Available via a desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs |
| N | Pcsv | pcsvc.exe | Delfin Promulgate - adware based media viewer by The Delfin Project |
| N | PCStart | Pcm25.exe | Runs as part of PCMonitor which is a program for monitoring your activity on your system. It makes screen dumps and key logging. It can hang-up your system because the screen dump page gets VERY big |
| U | PCRecSA | PCRecSA.exe | Part of the IBM/XPoint Rapid Restore backup utility. If you choose, you can use it to create a "clean" backup of your hard drive. The process involves the software partitioning your hard drive, making a compressed image of the working drive which will then allow you to revert to that should you need to |
| ? | PCMService | PCMService.exe | In a DellMedia Experience sub-directory |
| U | PCLEPCI | ppe.exe | Pinnacle Systems PCI Performance Enhancer. "This tool helps to increase the PCI Busmaster performance of all Pinnacle PCI boards." |
| ? | PCIMODEM | pcimodem.exe | Associated with Lucent based Aztech MDP7800-U PCI modems. Is it required? |
| X | PCHEasySearch | STUpdate.exe | PCH EasySearch bar |
| N | PCHealth | pchschd.exe | This is a "scheduler" and does not turn off PC Health. For more information refer here |
| N | PCHbutton | PCHbutton.exe | Used by HP Instant Support |
| X | PcEXPLODE | specialfile.exe | Added by the RBOT.RH WORM! |
| N | PCDRealtime | realtime.exe | Apparently the monitoring device for PC Doctor Online. It provides a "free" examination on system files (i.e. registry), reports the number of errors it finds, and invites you to "order" the fee-based fixes from its web site |
| Y | PcCtlCom | Pcctlcom.exe | Trend Micro PC-cillin Internet Security |
| Y | PCClient.exe | PCClient.exe | Trend Micro PC-Cillin Internet Security |
| Y | PccPfw | PccPfw.exe | PC Cillin 2003 personal firewall |
| Y | pccguide.exe | pccguide.exe | PC-Cillin 2002 antivirus software |
| Y | PCCIOMON.EXE | PCCIOMON.EXE | PC-Cillin 2000 antivirus software. This is the actual virus-scanner |
| Y | PCBODYGUARD | PCBODYGUARD.EXE | PC Bodyguard from Calluna - protects system files and settings from being deleted, modified, etc |
| Y | PCCClient.exe | PCCClient.exe | PC-Cillin 2002 antivirus software |
| Y | PCBG | PCBODYGUARD.EXE | PC Bodyguard from Calluna - protects system files and settings from being deleted, modified, etc |
| X | PC-Config32 | corona.exe | Added by the CORONEX.A WORM! |
| U | PC Booster | pcbooster.exe | PC Booster from inKline Global - "easy-to-use computer system optimizer that gives your system the extra speed and stability you want while ensuring that your computer is kept clean and in tip-top condition" |
| U | PC Alert III | alert.exe | MSI PC Alert III - allows you to view your system and cpu temperature, fan rpm and more. Only required if you overclock |
| Y | PavProt | PavProt.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
|
| Y | PavProc | PavPrS9x.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
|
| Y | PAVFNSVR | PavFnSvr.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
|
| Y | PAVFIRES | PavFires.exe | Panda Antivirus |
| Y | PAV.EXE | PAV.EXE | PER Antivirus |
| X | PAV.EXE | %Number% | Added by the KITRO.D (or ARGEN.A) WORM! %Number% can be any number |
| ? | Path | lide.exe | ?? |
| X | Patches Value | WinGamed.exe | Added by the SDBOT.BR WORM! |
| X | Patch | patch.exe | Added by the NETBUS WORM! |
| N | PasteLister | plister.exe | PasteLister - clipboard extender. Start manually when required |
| U | Password Door Loader | PDMonitor.exe | Password Door - password protection software |
| N | PaperQuote System Tray Icon | PQTRAY.EXE | PaperQuote is a "wallpaper" changer with daily quotes that are either for inspiration or motivation |
| U | PartSeal | PartSeal.exe | System backup for Sony Vaio PCs. Adds a recovery mechanism for users over and above any System Restore features - allowing users to revert a drive back to the state it was when bought form the factory by hitting F10. The user obviously loses any data stored if not backed-up elsewhere |
| N | Paperport | runppdrv.exe | Loads the drivers associated with monitoring scanner status associated with PaperPort software. Can be a resource hog - see here |
| N | PaperPort PTD | pptd40nt.exe | "PaperPort" software associated with scanners |
| X | PandaAVEngine | PandaAVEngine.exe | Added by the NETSKY.R WORM! |
| U | Panda Scheduler | pavsched.exe | Panda Antivirus scan scheduler. Required if this is your virus scanner program and you have scans scheduled on a regular basis. I recommend that you scan manually so you don't need this but if you tend to forget then leave it |
| N | PaltalkNetaware.exe | PALNETAW~1.EXE | Voice chat program. This program stores all buddy list info apparently on the server itself so you never lose your buddy list should you need to reinstall the program due for whatever reason or even reformat. Available via Start -> Programs. Delete the shortcut in Start -> Programs -> StartUp as well otherwise it will be reinstated |
| X | PalNetaware | pnetaware.exe | PalTalk adware - as included in Morpheus, see here towards the bottom of the page |
| N | Palm.exe | Palm.exe | Palm Desktop Software for use with Palm handheld devices. Available via Start -> Programs |
| ? | Palm MultiUser Config | Configtool.exe | MultiUser configuration for a Palm PDA device?. Is it required? |
| ? | pagmstart | client.exe | Possibly related to this? |
| N | Pagoo | PAGOO.EXE | Pagoo - internet call waiting. Intercepts telephone calls like an answering machine and plays the voice message on your PC. Only required when you're on-line and via dial-up modem |
| N | Pagis Scheduler | Monitor.exe | Scheduler for the Pagis scanning suite from Scansoft. |
| X | PAgent | PAgent.exe | Scans your hard drive for the popular P2P file-sharing applications BearShare, Grokster, Kazaa, Limewire and Morpheus. After searching the entire local filesystem for any files with those names it connects to the DownloadWare servers and tells it what, if anything, is found. See here for more info |
| U | Pagekeeper Lite | pkjobs.exe | PageKeeper Jobs is a separate PageKeeper program that handles the analysis of new documents and keeps track of the location and content of current documents in PageKeeper. Pagekeeper comes bundled with scanners such has HP, Microtek, etc |
| N | PadTouch | PadExe.exe | Toshiba Touch and Launch - offers easy movement and freedom of programs navigation with TouchPad |
| U | Pagekeeper Jobs | pkjobs.exe | PageKeeper Jobs is a separate PageKeeper program that handles the analysis of new documents and keeps track of the location and content of current documents in PageKeeper. Pagekeeper comes bundled with scanners such has HP, Microtek, etc |
| ? | Packard Bell EverSafe Tray Control | TrayControl.exe | Packard Bell EverSafe software. What does it do, and is it required? |
| X | p4mx4 | p4mx4.exe | Added by the CRYPTER.A TROJAN! |
| X | P3p4chk | P3p4chk.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| N | P2P Networking3 | P2P Networking3.exe | P2P Networking, a component bundled with Kazaa that enables other applications to use Peer-to-Peer functionality. Not required - see here |
| N | P2P NETWORKING | P2P Networking.exe | Peer to Peer (P2P) sharing of files on the internet |
| N | P2P NETWORKING | P2P Networking.exe | Peer to Peer (P2P) sharing of files on the internet |
| N | P2P Networking3 | P2P Networking3.exe | P2P Networking, a component bundled with Kazaa that enables other applications to use Peer-to-Peer functionality. Not required - see here |
| X | P3p4chk | P3p4chk.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | p4mx4 | p4mx4.exe | Added by the CRYPTER.A TROJAN! |
| ? | Packard Bell EverSafe Tray Control | TrayControl.exe | Packard Bell EverSafe software. What does it do, and is it required? |
| N | PadTouch | PadExe.exe | Toshiba Touch and Launch - offers easy movement and freedom of programs navigation with TouchPad |
| U | Pagekeeper Jobs | pkjobs.exe | PageKeeper Jobs is a separate PageKeeper program that handles the analysis of new documents and keeps track of the location and content of current documents in PageKeeper. Pagekeeper comes bundled with scanners such has HP, Microtek, etc |
| U | Pagekeeper Lite | pkjobs.exe | PageKeeper Jobs is a separate PageKeeper program that handles the analysis of new documents and keeps track of the location and content of current documents in PageKeeper. Pagekeeper comes bundled with scanners such has HP, Microtek, etc |
| X | PAgent | PAgent.exe | Scans your hard drive for the popular P2P file-sharing applications BearShare, Grokster, Kazaa, Limewire and Morpheus. After searching the entire local filesystem for any files with those names it connects to the DownloadWare servers and tells it what, if anything, is found. See here for more info |
| N | Pagis Scheduler | Monitor.exe | Scheduler for the Pagis scanning suite from Scansoft. |
| ? | pagmstart | client.exe | Possibly related to this? |
| N | Pagoo | PAGOO.EXE | Pagoo - internet call waiting. Intercepts telephone calls like an answering machine and plays the voice message on your PC. Only required when you're on-line and via dial-up modem |
| ? | Palm MultiUser Config | Configtool.exe | MultiUser configuration for a Palm PDA device?. Is it required? |
| N | Palm.exe | Palm.exe | Palm Desktop Software for use with Palm handheld devices. Available via Start -> Programs |
| X | PalNetaware | pnetaware.exe | PalTalk adware - as included in Morpheus, see here towards the bottom of the page |
| N | PaltalkNetaware.exe | PALNETAW~1.EXE | Voice chat program. This program stores all buddy list info apparently on the server itself so you never lose your buddy list should you need to reinstall the program due for whatever reason or even reformat. Available via Start -> Programs. Delete the shortcut in Start -> Programs -> StartUp as well otherwise it will be reinstated |
| U | Panda Scheduler | pavsched.exe | Panda Antivirus scan scheduler. Required if this is your virus scanner program and you have scans scheduled on a regular basis. I recommend that you scan manually so you don't need this but if you tend to forget then leave it |
| X | PandaAVEngine | PandaAVEngine.exe | Added by the NETSKY.R WORM! |
| N | Paperport | runppdrv.exe | Loads the drivers associated with monitoring scanner status associated with PaperPort software. Can be a resource hog - see here |
| N | PaperPort PTD | pptd40nt.exe | "PaperPort" software associated with scanners |
| N | PaperQuote System Tray Icon | PQTRAY.EXE | PaperQuote is a "wallpaper" changer with daily quotes that are either for inspiration or motivation |
| U | PartSeal | PartSeal.exe | System backup for Sony Vaio PCs. Adds a recovery mechanism for users over and above any System Restore features - allowing users to revert a drive back to the state it was when bought form the factory by hitting F10. The user obviously loses any data stored if not backed-up elsewhere |
| U | Password Door Loader | PDMonitor.exe | Password Door - password protection software |
| N | PasteLister | plister.exe | PasteLister - clipboard extender. Start manually when required |
| X | Patch | patch.exe | Added by the NETBUS WORM! |
| X | Patches Value | WinGamed.exe | Added by the SDBOT.BR WORM! |
| ? | Path | lide.exe | ?? |
| X | PAV.EXE | %Number% | Added by the KITRO.D (or ARGEN.A) WORM! %Number% can be any number |
| Y | PAV.EXE | PAV.EXE | PER Antivirus |
| Y | PAVFIRES | PavFires.exe | Panda Antivirus |
| Y | PAVFNSVR | PavFnSvr.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
|
| Y | PavProc | PavPrS9x.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
|
| Y | PavProt | PavProt.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
|
| U | PC Alert III | alert.exe | MSI PC Alert III - allows you to view your system and cpu temperature, fan rpm and more. Only required if you overclock |
| U | PC Booster | pcbooster.exe | PC Booster from inKline Global - "easy-to-use computer system optimizer that gives your system the extra speed and stability you want while ensuring that your computer is kept clean and in tip-top condition" |
| X | PC-Config32 | corona.exe | Added by the CORONEX.A WORM! |
| Y | PCBG | PCBODYGUARD.EXE | PC Bodyguard from Calluna - protects system files and settings from being deleted, modified, etc |
| Y | PCBODYGUARD | PCBODYGUARD.EXE | PC Bodyguard from Calluna - protects system files and settings from being deleted, modified, etc |
| Y | PCCClient.exe | PCCClient.exe | PC-Cillin 2002 antivirus software |
| Y | pccguide.exe | pccguide.exe | PC-Cillin 2002 antivirus software |
| Y | PCCIOMON.EXE | PCCIOMON.EXE | PC-Cillin 2000 antivirus software. This is the actual virus-scanner |
| Y | PCClient.exe | PCClient.exe | Trend Micro PC-Cillin Internet Security |
| Y | PccPfw | PccPfw.exe | PC Cillin 2003 personal firewall |
| Y | PcCtlCom | Pcctlcom.exe | Trend Micro PC-cillin Internet Security |
| N | PCDRealtime | realtime.exe | Apparently the monitoring device for PC Doctor Online. It provides a "free" examination on system files (i.e. registry), reports the number of errors it finds, and invites you to "order" the fee-based fixes from its web site |
| X | PcEXPLODE | specialfile.exe | Added by the RBOT.RH WORM! |
| N | PCHbutton | PCHbutton.exe | Used by HP Instant Support |
| N | PCHealth | pchschd.exe | This is a "scheduler" and does not turn off PC Health. For more information refer here |
| X | PCHEasySearch | STUpdate.exe | PCH EasySearch bar |
| ? | PCIMODEM | pcimodem.exe | Associated with Lucent based Aztech MDP7800-U PCI modems. Is it required? |
| U | PCLEPCI | ppe.exe | Pinnacle Systems PCI Performance Enhancer. "This tool helps to increase the PCI Busmaster performance of all Pinnacle PCI boards." |
| ? | PCMService | PCMService.exe | In a DellMedia Experience sub-directory |
| U | PCRecSA | PCRecSA.exe | Part of the IBM/XPoint Rapid Restore backup utility. If you choose, you can use it to create a "clean" backup of your hard drive. The process involves the software partitioning your hard drive, making a compressed image of the working drive which will then allow you to revert to that should you need to |
| N | PCStart | Pcm25.exe | Runs as part of PCMonitor which is a program for monitoring your activity on your system. It makes screen dumps and key logging. It can hang-up your system because the screen dump page gets VERY big |
| N | Pcsv | pcsvc.exe | Delfin Promulgate - adware based media viewer by The Delfin Project |
| N | PcSync | PcSync.exe | If a Nokia phone has been connected, synchronises the phone with MS Outlook or other organiser software. It is installed by the Nokia PC Suite, and the tray icon shows if a phone has been connected. Available via a desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs |
| U | pctspk | pctspk.exe | Used for modems based upon PC-TEL chipsets. Normally used for some Voice and Speakerphone functions and also for some Power management options. If you remove it you may not be able to use any of those functions |
| U | PCTVOICE | pctvoice.exe | The program PCTVoice is used by the modem to interface with your computer and also used for some V.80 functions for Video Conferencing. if you uncheck it, it comes back. It?s better to leave it |
| U | PDEngine | PDEngine.exe | PerfectDisk from Raxco - disk defragmenter. Only required if you schedule disk defragmenting at re-boot |
| N | pdexplo | PDEXPLO.EXE | PowerDesk Pro by Ontrack. Enhanced desktop and file manager. Available via Start -> Programs |
| N | pdfFactory Pro Dispatcher v1 | fppdis1.exe | "With pdfFactory you can create PDF documents from any program printing to the virtual PDF printer". Available via a desktop shortcut or Start -> Programs |
| N | pdfSaver3 | pdfSaver3.exe | PDF-XChange - create Adobe compatible PDF files from virtually any Windows software such as MS Word, Excel, AutoCAD, MS Publisher etc |
| N | PDirect | PDirect.exe | IBM Presentation Director software |
| U | pdp Server | ctpdpsrvr.exe | Included and setup with the drivers for my Compaq A3000 all-in-one printer/scanner - maybe for networking. Works fine without it - but may be needed when used over a network |
| U | PDVDServ | PDVDServ.exe | Remote Control background application for CyberLink's PowerDVD version 5 and above. Enables you to use a remote control with your DVD drive if your drive came with one. Not required if you don't have a remote control, or don't wish to use one |
| N | Pe2ckfnt SE | chkfont.exe | Used to check whether the fonts are installed properly on your computer or not for a scanner. If you don't want to execute it, you can uncheck it in the startup menu |
| ? | Peeramid | PService.exe | In a "Koptimizer" folder in Program Files. What does it do and is it required? |
| N | PeerGuardian | PeerGuardian_1.99b_pr14.exe | PeerGuardian "is a tiny firewall program especially designed for P2P software users, but also for anyone who is concerned about the investigations that corporations and authorities perform on the internet. PeerGurdian blocks connections for the configured IP ranges and logs the blocked connections" |
| U | Pent@VALUE 3.2 | Pent@VALUE.exe | Pent@VALUE Digital Satellite Internet PC Receiver |
| Y | PER Email Protection | pavmail.exe | PER Antivirus |
| N | PerfectPrint | pfppop70.exe | Print engine used by Corel WordPerfect 7 and Presentations 7 |
| Y | PersFw | PersFw.exe | Kerio or Tiny Personal Firewall |
| X | Personal Firwall | ptmedsrv.exe | Added by the SDBOT.XY WORM!
|
| U | Pervasive.SQL Workgroup Engine | W3dbsmgr.exe | Database Service Manager for Pervasive SQL 2000 Workgroup edition. Required if you use Pervasive SQL but it's recommended you start it manually before using it as it has a tendancy to crash/freeze if loaded with other applications at startup |
| U | PestPatrol Control Center | PPControl.exe | PestPatrol Control Terminal - launches PestPatrol features such as PPMemCheck and CookiePatrol |
| ? | PestPatrolCL | PestPatrolCL.exe | Associated with PestPatrol anti-malware software. What does this part do and is it required? |
| U | Petit Larousse 2001 | HIPL2000Popup.exe | Popup dictionary tool |
| ? | PFW_CfgEngine | PFWCFG~1.EXE | Personal Firewall related? |
| ? | PFW_PullSrv | PULL.EXE | Personal Firewall related? |
| X | PgMonitr | PgMonitr.exe | Adware based media viewer by The Delfin Project |
| Y | PGPSDKSVC | pgpsdkserv.exe | PGPsdkServ.exe is the new SDK service which is responsible for performing all PGP key management and cryptographic functions. This functionality was moved into a service to allow multiple modules simultaneous read/write access to the keyrings, among other things. As you can imagine, it is necessary for PGPsdkServ to be running in order to perform practically any PGP functionality |
| U | PGPSERVICE | pgpservice.exe | PGPservice.exe has two main purposes: (1) it handles a large part of the PGPnet functionality (along with the PGPnet driver) and (2) it allows efficient access to the PGP preferences database. The individual PGP modules normally access the preferences through PGPservice, but they are capable of a "fall-back" mode where they can handle such access on their own. Thus, if you are not running PGPnet, you may not immediately notice much of a difference if you disable PGPservice. If you are running PGPnet, you will notice a big difference |
| N | PGPtray | pgptray.exe | PGP 7.x. Provides icon tray shortcuts to PGP programs from Network Associates. Available via Start -> Programs |
| X | PGStub.exe | [various filenames] | Unidentified adware |
| X | pgtaff | pgtaff.exe | AdRotator adware variant |
| N | Phime2002a | TINTSETP.EXE | Part of Microsoft's Input Message Editor (IME) for translating Japanese/Chinese text in IE, Outlook and Word |
| N | PHIME2002ASync | TINTSETP.EXE | Part of Microsoft's Input Message Editor (IME) for translating Japanese/Chinese text in IE, Outlook and Word |
| U | PhoneFree version 6.2 | PHONEF??.EXE | An Internet telephony application. Complicated registration and ad banners tailored to your profile - see here |
| N | Photo Express Calendar Checker SE | CALCHECK.EXE | If you create multiple Weekly/Monthly/Yearly calendars to use as your wallpaper, Photo Express will replace the wallpaper automatically. Photo Express 2.0 has a calendar checker which checks the date on your system and updates your wallpaper accordingly |
| N | Photo Loader supervisory | Plauto.exe | Casio's Photo Loader software. Hook up your camera to the USB port, and it pops up and asks you if you want to load your pictures |
| N | PhotoWise QuickLink | quicklnk.exe | Agfa PhotoWise - "PhotoWise QuickLinkTM lets you drag and drop photos right from the camera into your document (applications must be OLE-compliant). Use PhotoWise to print contact sheets and photographic prints. Create slide shows, screen savers, wallpaper and more." |
| N | Picasa Media Detector | PicasaMediaDetector.exe | Media detector for Picasa's automatic photo organizer |
| N | PicasaNet | Hello.exe | Hello is an application that allows Blogger users to post digital photos and captions directly to their personal weblogs, or blogs |
| N | Pickatag | pickatag.exe | Pick-a-tag - "Freeware utility for random selection of your taglines. This utility randomly picks a tagline out of a list of taglines. It will create a signature file which your mailer can use to place under your messages" |
| N | PICPRTR | PICPRTR.EXE | Program for viewing and measuring a variety of 3D CAD data formats |
| N | pictureBUZZTray | swtray.exe | System Tray access to PictureBUZZ on-line printing software from Streetwise Software. If you use the software set the page you use as a favourite in your browser and run it manually |
| U | PiDunHK | PIDUNHK.EXE | Part of the Prodigy Internet software - part of the dialer/DUN. Presumably needed for users of that service otherwise you may not be able to connect, although you may try creating your own shortcut and see what happens |
| U | piiserviceOE | N/A | Spam Inspector (nee Postal Inspector) from The Giant Company or iHateSpam from Sunbelt Software - spam filter add-ons for OE |
| X | pilif | pilif.exe | Added by the FILI WORM! |
| N | Pinger | pinger.exe | Pinger is the resident program for Toshiba updates. Periodically checks to see if there are any software/driver upgrades for your particular computer model. If it finds any, it posts a notification |
| Y | PinnacleDriverCheck | PSDrvCheck.exe | Part of Pinnacle Systems InstantCD/DVD and InstantCopy CD/DVD copying software that verifies drive settings. Once loaded it doesn't use any resources so you can leave it enabled |
| N | Piolet | piolet.exe | Piolet - peer-to-peer file sharing client |
| N | Piracy | SysUtil.exe | Software Piracy Alert feature bundled with PGWare software. Cries foul when it detects an 'illegal' version. The alerts are reported to disappear as soon as the software is correctly registered. There are privacy issues though: "The Software includes a feature that assigns a unique order number to GameGain based on purchase information. The Software reports this number to us via the internet either when you run the Software or enter the registration number, or both. The Software may also identify and report to us your IP address, date and time of installation, registration and/or use. We use this information strictly to count the number of installations, detect unauthorized access or piracy of the Software, and develop rough statistical data regarding the geographic location of our users"
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| N | PivotSoftware | wpctrl.exe | PivotPro from Portrait Studios - allows a screen to be rotated to match rotated LCD screens, for example). Shortcut available via Display Properties |
| X | Pixel32 | Pixel32.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pixelpwr32 | Pixelpwr32.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pixelsvr | Pixelsvr.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| U | pjWebCam | pjWebCam.exe | Webcam automation software that saves regular photos from webcam and can also act as HTTP server |
| X | PK Services | pksvc.exe | Added by the FORBOT-BW WORM!
|
| U | PktAnything | PocketCompanion.exe | PocketAnything lets you save anything on your computer to your mobile, with one click |
| U | PLEAPCPUCPL | pleapu.exe | CPU Control Panel for the Powerleap CPU upgrade |
| N | Plguni | Plguni.exe | McAfee QuickClean 3.0 - removes internet clutter and unwanted programs |
| U | plmg.exe | plmg.exe | Paragon Last Minute Bidder - auction assistant software |
| ? | PLoader | umsd.exe | USB Mass Storage Disk related tray icon. Is it required? |
| X | Plob | kernel.com | Added by the OPTIXPRO.12 TROJAN! |
| U | Pluck Tray | PluckTray.exe | RSS (XML TAGS) reader program |
| X | Plug And Play | msnmsg.exe | Added by the RBOT-ID WORM! |
| U | PLXSTART | PLXSTART.EXE | Sets the spindown timeout and access speeds at startup and displays the "Plextor Manager 2000" splash screen for Plextor CD-RW. |
| N | PLXTASK | PLXTASK.EXE | Taskbar utility for a "control panel" for a Plextor CD-RW. Has MVP 2000 (audio CD player), DiscDupe 2000 (self explanatory CD copying program) and AudioCapture 2000 (rips audio CDs into MP3 or WAV files) |
| X | pm32ctrl | pwr32crtl.exe | Added by the CRYPTER.A TROJAN! |
| X | pm32info | pm32info.exe | Added by the CRYPTER.A TROJAN! |
| X | pmc | 764.exe | Adult content dialler |
| X | PMedia | winsrvc.exe | Internet marketing sofware from PMedia as used in E-Card FriendGreetings foistware - see here. Treated by Trend as the FRIENDGRT.B WORM! |
| ? | PmProxy | PmProxy.exe | Associated with Analog Devices "SoundMAX" audio chipset - often built-in to motherboards. What does it do and is it required? |
| X | pmr | pmr.exe | Powerstrip foistware variant |
| N | PMTSHOOT | pmtshoot.exe | MS tool for troubleshooting power management problems |
| U | PMXInit | pmxinit.exe | Restores user display preferences Kyro2 based graphics cards. Not required unless you change the default settings - such as gamma |
| N | PNAgent | PNAgent.exe | PhatNoise Music Manager - manages WMA, MP3, WAV, etc music files |
| U | Pnpchk | Pnpchk.exe | Aztech Labs Sound 3 PnP driver |
| X | pnpsvc_lock | ******.exe [* = random digit] | Browser hijacker |
| X | pnpsvc_lock | startsvs.exe | Browser hijacker |
| U | PNSetup | PNSetup.exe | PopNot - pop-up killer |
| X | PNtask Services | pntask.exe | Added by the LALA.C TROJAN! |
| U | Pocket Sheet Sync | PSXLTRAY.EXE | Casio Pocket Sheet synchronization software |
| X | Poet | Poet.exe | Added by the DOEP.A WORM! |
| X | Pofatch | nstrue.exe | Added by the RANDEX.Z WORM! |
| U | point32 | point32.exe | Microsoft Intellipoint software for their Intellimouse series of mice - required if you use non-standard Windows driver features |
| U | POINTER | point32.exe | Microsoft Intellipoint software for their Intellimouse series of mice - required if you use non-standard Windows driver features |
| N | Points Manager | points manager.exe | Altnet Points Manager - manages the new Kazaa Plus scheme for awarding you points if you share music files on your machine with others rather than simply getting files and not sharing their own. Start manually when required |
| X | POP | PopSrv***.exe | PeopleonPage foistware, bundled with Grokster where *** are random digits |
| U | Pop-Up Smasher | PopupSmasher.exe | Pop-Up Smasher - pop-up killer |
| U | Pop-Up Stopper | dpps2.exe | Pop-Up Stopper Companion from Panicware. Pop-up blocker integrated into the IE toolbar. Note that the Pro version doesn't load in startup as it is installed as an Internet Explorer toolbar. Can cause problems with IE if you use WinXP and uninstall Service Pack 1. Uninstalling the software leaves it in the startup group |
| U | Pop-Up_Blocker | Popup.exe | A Tweak-XP component, blocks advertisement pop-up windows in Internet Explorer. Can be enabled/disabled via Tweak-XP -> Internet Tweaks |
| Y | pop3trap.exe | pop3trap.exe | PC-Cillin 2000 antivirus software -> E-mail scanner |
| U | PopNot | PopNot.exe | PopNot - pop-up killer |
| U | PopOops | PopOops.exe | PopOops - pop-up killer |
| U | Popopen | popopen.exe | PopOpen makes your windows spring open with animation effects |
| Y | Poproxy | POPROXY.EXE | Proxy E-mail protection from Norton Anti-Virus (prior to 2002). If you have it installed, leave it enabled to automatically check for suspect attachments in E-mails that may contain viruses. It downloads the E-mail into poproxy, which serves as a proxy server on the local machine, before scanning it |
| X | popsrv146 | popsrv146.exe | PeopleOnPage online dating browser enhancement - also adware and privacy issues, see here. For removal instructions see here |
| U | PopSubtract | PopSub.exe | PopSubtract - pop-up killer |
| U | Popup Ad Filter | PopFilter.exe | Popup Ad Filter - pop-up killer |
| X | Popup Blocker Updater | regsvr32 veev****.dll [**** = random char] | SafeguardProtect/Veevo hijacker
|
| X | Popup Defence Updater | regsvr32 /s [path] pdf****.dll [* = random char/digit] | SafeguardProtect/Veevo hijacker |
| U | Popup Defender | PD.exe | Popup Defender - pop-up killer |
| U | Popup Terminator | GLADManager.exe | Popup Terminator - pop-up killer |
| U | PopupEliminator | Popup Eliminator.exe | Popup Eliminator - pop-up killer |
| U | PopUpKiller | PopUpKiller.exe | PopUpKiller - pop-up killer |
| U | PopUpStopperCompanion | PSComp.exe | PopupStopper Companion popup blocker
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| U | PopUpStopperFreeEdition | PSFREE.EXE | Panicware's Pop-Up Stopper - free limited features version |
| U | PopUpStopperProfessional | PopUpStopperProfessional.exe | Panicware's Pop-Up Stopper - paid for version |
| U | PopupVanish | PopupVanish.exe | Pop-up blocker |
| U | PopUpWasher | PopUpWasher.exe | PopUpWasher pop-up killer |
| U | PopUpWatch | PopUpWatch.exe | Part of BPS Trace Remover - made by the folks who "developed" BPS Spyware Remover which reportedly uses an old, "borrowed" SpyBot database. Read this and this. Do not support these guys! |
| ? | POS-Partnerbatchprocessor | BATCH.EXE | VISA credit card batch processing related to Appcon. Is it needed or can it be started manually via Start -> Programs or a manually created shortcut? |
| N | Post-It(r) Software | Psnotes.exe | Pop-up "yellow" notes on screen. Available via Start -> Programs |
| U | POW! | pow.exe | Pop-up killer |
| X | Power Scan | powerscan.exe | Foistware by Integrated Search Technologies - the people behind the ISTbar parasite |
| N | PowerBar | Powerbar.exe | Part of CyberLink's PowerDVD software. Not sure what exactly it does, but not required in startup |
| Y | PowerChute | Pwrchute.exe | "During a power outage, if you're not available to save your files & close down Windows....PowerChute will do that for you. PowerChute will save your application files, close your applications and shut down your computer just like you would...otherwise, the APC UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) unit would go to battery until it wore down, then your computer would shutoff" |
| U | PowerDOCSAPIHost | papihost.exe | Hummingbird PowerDOCS - "delivers powerful enterprise document management functionality via a tightly integrated Microsoft WinNT/98/2K environment" |
| N | PowerDVD | PowerDVD.exe | Launches Cyberlink's PowerDVD software and creates a system tray icon. If enabled, PowerDVD will open automatically when a DVD movie is inserted. Launch manually |
| U | PowerKey | PowerKey.exe | Part of Acer Launch Manager - programmable keys on such laptops as the TravelMate 610 |
| X | PowerManagement | Rundlll.exe | Added by the SURDUX TROJAN! |
| X | PowerManager | Svchost.exe | Added by the JEEFO VIRUS! Note - this is not the legitimate svchost.exe process which should NOT appear in Msconfig/Startup! |
| Y | PowerPanel | POWPANEL.EXE | Power management utility on notebooks/laptops - automatically switches modes when running on battery |
| X | PowerPrifile | rundl132 kenel.dll, PowerProfileEnable | Added by the INMOTA WORM! |
| U | PowerPro | powerpro.exe | Part of the power professional program that loads the floating menu bar. Can be accessed from Start -> Programs, but I'd leave it alone if you use this program |
| X | PowerProf | PowerProf.exe | Added by the LOREX.B TROJAN! |
| N | PowerQuest Startup Utility | PQINIT.EXE | From a visitor - "This seems to be installed when you install Power Quest Partition Magic. I think that it implements the changes when you use the magic mover app. If you don't have any mappings set up, it does nothing (except waste bytes and cycles). I disabled it using msconfig.exe with no problems" |
| N | PowerReg Scheduler | PowerReg Scheduler.exe | PowerREGISTER from Leadertech. Registration reminder as used by Iomega, Hasbro & Microprose - amongst others |
| N | PowerReg SchedulerV2 | PowerReg SchedulerV2.exe | PowerREGISTER from Leadertech. Registration reminder as used by Iomega, Hasbro & Microprose - amongst others |
| N | PowerReg SchedulerV3 | PowerReg SchedulerV3.exe | PowerREGISTER from Leadertech. Registration reminder as used by Iomega, Hasbro & Microprose - amongst others |
| ? | POWERR~1 | POWERR~1.exe | Power monitoring? |
| ? | PowerS | PowerS.exe | ProlinkTest for either their AGP graphics card or TV/FM capture card. Is it required?
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| ? | PowerSet | Regedit.exe /s ...PowerSet_8100_CU.REG | Appears to be Toshiba power management related |
| N | PowerStrip | powerstrip.exe | PowerStrip is a Video Mode Editor to allow special Refresh Rates and Tweaking of Video Settings |
| N | PowerStrip | PSTRIP.EXE | PowerStrip is a Video Mode Editor to allow special Refresh Rates and Tweaking of Video Settings |
| U | PowerTools Tray Icon | pttray.exe | PowerTools - add-on for AOL |
| U | Powertweak | PT2.EXE | "Powertweak is designed to configure your system in the best way. A processor, the core of the system, or a chipset (a set of components that manage the data flows between the different parts of the system) can be configured." This item is added to startup if 'Use predefined settings' is enabled in the programs options |
| U | Powertweak | PTCTRL.EXE | "Powertweak is designed to configure your system in the best way. A processor, the core of the system, or a chipset (a set of components that manage the data flows between the different parts of the system) can be configured." This item is added to startup if 'Configure system at logon' is enabled in the programs options |
| N | PP****usb | FBDirect.exe | Software that monitors the status of a Visioneer OneTouch scanner button and allows you to scan, fax, copy, print, and easily communicate by simply dragging and dropping scans on your PaperPort Desktop!. The **** represents the model, 5300, 7600, etc. Available via Start -> Programs |
| U | PP2000 Instaupdate | PPInupdt.exe | Protector Plus anti-virus software - instant update program for virus data updates. Not required if you regularly update virus data manually |
| Y | PP2000 Real Time Scan | PPVstop.exe | Protector Plus anti-virus software - real time scanner |
| Y | PP2000 Taskbar Control | PPTbc.exe | Protector Plus anti-virus software - system tray access |
| N | PP3100b | flatbed.exe | Twain driver for the Visioneer PaperPort 3100b scanner that allows you to scan, fax, copy, print, and easily communicate by simply dragging and dropping scans on your PaperPort Desktop |
| U | ppass | Antispy.exe | AntiSpy firewall - "program designed to combat against various types of intrusion and monitoring programs currently in use or presently being developed worldwide" |
| U | PPControl | PPControl.exe | PestPatrol Control Terminal - launches PestPatrol features such as PPMemCheck and CookiePatrol |
| U | PPK Setup(Server) | SEServe.exe | Programmable Power Key on Sony Vaio laptops. "Using the Programmable Power Key (PPK) button, collect your e-mail automatically with one key stroke. You can also program your PPK to turn on your SuperSlim Notebook at a predetermined time and perform simple tasks - completely unattended" |
| U | PPMemCheck | ppmemcheck.exe | PPMemCheck - "extends PestPatrol's power so that the most dangerous Pests -- those that are about to execute -- are found, terminated, and cleaned from a user's system" |
| N | PProTray | pprotray.exe | Part of the power professional program. Loads the System Tray control |
| N | pptd40nt | pptd40nt.exe | "PaperPort" software associated with scanners |
| U | PPUpdate | ppupdater.exe | PPUpdater - "is the update program that ships with PestPatrol. It is able to update licensed and evaluation versions, and presents a visual display of what it is doing". Run manually unless you think you'll forget to check for updates on a regular basis |
| N | PPWWebCap | PPWebCap.exe | "PaperPort" software associated with scanners |
| X | pqhelper | pqhelper.exe | Searchcentrix hijacker |
| U | PractiSearch | PSearch.exe | PractiSearch web search software |
| U | Praize Messenger | itLoad.exe | Praize IM Christian chat instant messenger |
| U | Prayer | PTW.EXE | Islamic Adhan program (call fpr daily prayers) |
| X | prdtect | prdtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth!
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| ? | PreAnnotate | PreAnntt.exe | Genius Wizard Pen Tablet driver related. Is it required? |
| N | Precision Time Clock Checker | PrecisionTime.exe | Precision Time 2.0. Checks your computer clock time against the Naval Observatory or some other source to assure accurate time |
| X | precpop2 | starter.exe | PrecisionPop adware |
| X | Prein | APP****.tmp [* = random char or digit] | Unidentified adware |
| Y | Preload | Preload.exe | Millenium Multi-Function Keyboard driver |
| ? | PreloadApp | hphprld.exe | HP Printer driver related? |
| X | Premeter | nrpr.exe | NetRatings software by Opistat . "OpiStat measures Internet usage anonymously and surveys participants according to their profiles and online habits". This software has been reported to get downloaded and installed automatically after a Grokster install. It anonymously collects your use of the Internet protocols (sites visited, Web pages, advertisements seen, electronic commerce, streaming). To be avoided! |
| X | Premeter | prmt.exe | NetRatings software by Opistat . "OpiStat measures Internet usage anonymously and surveys participants according to their profiles and online habits". This software has been reported to get downloaded and installed automatically after a Grokster install. It anonymously collects your use of the Internet protocols (sites visited, Web pages, advertisements seen, electronic commerce, streaming). To be avoided! |
| Y | PrevxHome | SAGUI.exe | PrevX Home intrusion prevention software |
| X | prgtect | prgtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prxtect.exe, prdtect.exe and so forth!
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| N | Price Patrol | neo.exe | Price Patrol by Half.com - internet shopping companion for finding the best on-line prices |
| ? | PrimaLauncher | Launcher.exe | Associated with PrimaScan scanners. Is it required? |
| U | Primax 3D Mouse | 3dmoused.exe | Enables the scroll button on the Primax 3-D Scroll mouse |
| ? | Primsta | Primsta.exe | Linksys Wireless CompactFlash Card driver related. Is it required? |
| N | Print Master Event Reminder | PMremind.exe | Print Master Gold - calander feature that pops up reminders, such as birthdays |
| N | Print Screen Deluxe | psdeluxe.exe | Utility allows "Print Scrn" or "Print Screen" key to capture, print or save the current window |
| X | print sharing | start.bat | Added by the ZCREW TROJAN! |
| X | print sharing | [path] hidden32.exe [path] explorer.exe | Added by the ZCREW.B TROJAN! Note - this is not the valid Windows Explorer (explorer.exe) |
| X | Print Spooler | Spoolsv.exe | Added by the CIADOOR.B TROJAN! Note - "Spoolsv.exe" is located in the Windows or Winnt directory, and not in System32, like the legitimate Spoolsv.exe system file |
| X | Print Spooler | spoolsvc32.exe | Added by the SDBOT.BB TROJAN! |
| X | Print Spooler | spools.exe | Added by the RBOT-LD WORM! |
| X | Printer | Spyassault.exe | Dubious "spyware killer" - see here. To be avoided |
| N | Printer | [path to file] | Added by the LOWTAPER TROJAN! |
| X | Printer | dipset.exe | Added by a variant of the FBSR TROJAN!
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| ? | Printer Update | CFGREG.EXE | Maybe a registration reminder or automatically updates drivers or application software for a printer? |
| X | PrinterSpool | [path] RESTORE.EXE [path] SPOOL.EXE | Added by the ALADINZ.K TROJAN! |
| N | Printkey2000 | printkey2000.exe | Screen grabber that intercepts the pressing of the Print Screen (Prn Scrn) key. Start manually when required |
| N | printnow | printnow.exe | PrintNow - a utility that primarily allows "Print Srceen" or "Alt+Print Screen" screenshots to be sent directly to a printer |
| N | PrinTray | Printray.exe | Lexmark/Compaq printer icon in the System Tray for quick access. Not required - uncheck via Printer configuration rather than MSCONFIG. See also LexmarkPrintray and CompaqPrinTray |
| N | PrintScreen | UNWISE.EXE | Gadwin PrintScreen - utility to capture, print or save the current window |
| N | Printscreen 95 | PRT95MIN.EXE | Printscreen 95 - utility to capture, print or save the current window |
| X | PrintSpoolSv | System.exe | Added by the BDOOR-S TROJAN! |
| U | PRISMSTA.EXE | PRISMSTA.EXE | Creates a system tray icon for accessing information about Intersil Prism Wireless Settings. Intersil silicon is used by Trendware/Trendnet for example |
| N | Privacy Eraser Pro | PrivacyEraser.exe | Privacy Eraser Pro - protects your Internet privacy by cleaning up all Internet history tracks and past computer activities |
| X | PrivacyScanner | pscan.exe | Privacy Champion, a stealth installed 'Privacy Scanner'. It purportedly scans your PC for links to porn websites, and then offers to "clean" them. Produces loads of False Positives as goad to purchase
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| X | PrivateNet | [various filenames] | Premium rate adult content dialler |
| U | Privoxy | privoxy.exe | Privoxy - web proxy with advanced filtering capabilities for protecting privacy, filtering web page content, managing cookies, controlling access, and removing ads, banners, pop-ups and other obnoxious Internet junk |
| X | PrizeSurfer | prizesurfer.exe | "PrizeSurfer is the free software that automatically enters you to win cash and prizes just for surfing the web and shopping online!" Stealth installed malware |
| X | prjtect | prjtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | prktect | prktect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | prmt | prmt.exe | NetRatings software by Opistat. "OpiStat measures Internet usage anonymously and surveys participants according to their profiles and online habits". This software has been reported to get downloaded and installed automatically after a Grokster install. It anonymously collects your use of the Internet protocols (sites visited, Web pages, advertisements seen, electronic commerce, streaming). To be avoided! |
| X | prmtect | prmtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prxtect.exe, prdtect.exe and so forth!
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| U | PrnSys Executable | PrnSys.exe | Print screen utility bundled with some HP printer software - not required, but your choice if you like that feature |
| U | Pro PCL Status Monitor | PENGSS.EXE | Xerox printer/fax/copier status monitor (PCL = printer control language) |
| ? | ProArt | ProArt.exe | ?? |
| U | ProcessGovernor | processgovernor.exe | Process Supervisor "is a technology designed to automatically configure and manage processes on one or more computers for the goal of maintaining system stability and responsiveness, restricting executables from running, and logging of program executions"
|
| U | ProcessSupervisorGUI | ProcessSupervisor.exe | Process Supervisor "is a technology designed to automatically configure and manage processes on one or more computers for the goal of maintaining system stability and responsiveness, restricting executables from running, and logging of program executions"
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| X | procmon | procmon.exe | Added by the BIONET.40A TROJAN! |
| N | ProdikeysAutorun | Prodload.exe | Creative Prodikeys software. "an interactive music entertainment device which not only functions as a full-featured, ergonomic ?QWERTY? keyboard but also comes equipped with 37 touch-sensitive music keys and accessible music controls for endless entertainment at your desktop. Coupled with the Sound Blaster audio card, you can explore a wide array of realistic instrument sounds and have non-stop fun making music right at your desktop" |
| N | ProDsl | ProDsl.exe | Intel Pro/DSL 2100 modem connection manager. Available via Start -> Programs |
| X | Profile | Profile.vbs | Added by the WHITEHO VIRUS or TRAPPY WORM! |
| N | Profiler | Profiler.exe | Enables the "Profiler" to be launched from a System Tray icon for Saitek's game controllers. Available via Start -> Programs |
| X | Prog | csrss.exe | Added by the WEBUS TROJAN! Note - this is not the legitimate csrss.exe process, which should not appear in Msconfig/Startup! |
| X | Prog | lsass.exe | Added by the WEBUS.B TROJAN! Note - this is not the legitimate lsass.exe process, which should not appear in Msconfig/Startup! |
| X | Program File | Progmon.exe | Added by the PEEPER TROJAN! |
| X | Program in Windows | iexplore.exe | Added by a variant of the LOVGATE WORM! Note - this is not the legitimate Internet Explorer (iexplore.exe) process, which should not appear in Msconfig/Startup unless you add it manually! |
| ? | ProgramWindow | more comp.exe | ?? |
| N | projselector | projselector.exe | Roxio Project Selector - can be started manually |
| N | Promon.exe | promon.exe | System Tray icon for Intel PRO series ethernet adapters giving access to the diagnostic features |
| X | PromulGate | PgMonitr.exe | Adware based media viewer by The Delfin Project |
| N | PRONoMgr.exe | PRONoMgr.exe | System Tray icon for Intel PRO series ethernet adapters giving access to the diagnostic features |
| U | PRONoMgrWired | PRONoMgr.exe | Intel?s Pro 100 Ethernet card manager |
| U | Propel Accelerator | PropelAC.exe | Propel Internet Accelerator |
| U | ProPort Startup | ProPort.exe | Proport is a port monitor/protector. Monitors an infinite amount of ports for trojans and nukes. Some additional features are auto connection-kill, and IP resolving |
| X | Protected Storage | RUNDLL32.EXE MSSIGN30.DLL ondll_reg | Added by a variant of the LOVGATE WORM! |
| X | Protection | [path] runtask.exe [path] protection.exe | Added by a variant of the AGENT.3.AU TROJAN!
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| X | Protection | Protection.exe | Added by the FEBELNECK-A WORM!
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| N | PROXOMITRON | PROXOMITRON.EXE | HTML proxy |
| N | PROXOMITRON | PROXOM~1.EXE | HTML proxy |
| U | PRPCMonitor | PRPCUI.exe | Intel? SpeedStep? interface. This automatically detects whether a mobile PC is using battery or AC power. When using battery power, SpeedStep scales the processor clock frequency and voltage to reduce the power it needs by 40% |
| X | prrtect | prrtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prttect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | prttect | prttect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prxtect.exe, prdtect.exe and so forth!
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| X | prvtect | prvtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prdtect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth! |
| X | prxtect | prxtect.exe | Prutect malware - attempts to shut down or tamper with a number of anti spyware applications, like Ad-Aware and SpyBot S&D. Note - has been seen using alternative file names like prdtect.exe, prmtect.exe and so forth!
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| U | PS2 | ps2.exe | Multimedia Keyboard companion on HP computers. If this is prevented from starting, then some keyboard functionality will be lost. |
| X | PSD Tools Channel | ChannelUp.exe | BuddyLinks adware |
| Y | PSDrvCheck | PSDrvCheck.exe | Part of Pinnacle Systems InstantCD/DVD and InstantCopy CD/DVD copying software that verifies drive settings. Once loaded it doesn't use any resources so you can leave it enabled |
| U | PSFree | PSFree.exe | Pop-Up Stopper Free from Panicware. Pop-up blocker integrated into the IE toolbar. Note that the Pro version doesn't load in startup as it is installed as an Internet Explorer toolbar. Can cause problems with IE if you use WinXP and uninstall Service Pack 1. Uninstalling the software leaves it in the startup group |
| Y | PSIMSVC | PSIMSVC.exe | Panda Titanium Antivirus
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| N | PSIWin2.3 Connection Server | Psconsv.exe | Allows connectivity between a PC and a Psion device. Access can be gained from the Desktop or Start -> Programs |
| U | PsMFCard | PsMFCard.exe | Component of the Toshiba Controls. Provides power-saving functions for the PCMCIA slots. Through the Power Save Mode Properties dialogue, the user can select from 3 PCMCIA power options - On, Auto1 and Auto2. Disabling this item has no adverse effects, except disabling the ability to reduce power consumption by powering-down the PCMCIA slots when not in use |
| Y | PSNotify | psnotify.exe | Pharos SignUp Vx - "PC reservation and management application that addresses the PC scheduling needs of public libraries and higher education labs and libraries" |
| Y | PsPCCard | PsPCCard.EXE | Background Power Saving task found on Toshiba laptops and which handles turning Power Saving ON and OFF on any inserted PC Card (PCMCIA card). Only ever disable if you do not use any power saving or hibernation settings (ie: they are all OFF) |
| U | PspContr | pspcontr.exe | Driver/controller for the Philips SpeechMike 6174. As the Philips FreeSpeech application is no longer supported it can be disabled but the Mike can still be used for certain functions using this driver |
| U | PsSound | PsSound.exe | On a Toshiba laptop. Operates your sound in one of 4 modes, off, on , on only with powerr, same as #3 but longer delay |
| ? | PSTORES | PSTORES.EXE | Part of Windows Services Protected Storage? |
| N | ptfb | ptfb.exe | Push the Freakin' Button - "When a dialog causes irritation, you simply tell PTFB which button should be pressed, and it will handle the dialog in future" |
| U | ptrun32 | ptrun32.exe | Parent Tools for AIM |
| N | Ptsnoop | Ptsnoop.exe | These descriptions I've come across - all valid as far as I can see :- (1) Program installed with some modems that monitors the COM ports for the modem driver. Not required from what I've read - may need a registry edit to get rid of it (2) Backdoor trojan virus that copies itself as PTSNOOP.EXE -see here for more info(3) Apparently the people who put it out claim it's a driver for a Voice modems (don't know who they are though - Ed) Note: If using AOL and you disable this you may lose your connection or lock up (4) Can also be an older Logitech scanner program. Remove from the Win.ini tab under Load='path'PTSNOOP and the System.ini tab under drivers='path'ptrtkr.drb. Can cause parallel port conflicts big time dragging system resources way down when a conflict exists (5) Allows audio monitoring of modem phone dialling tones and can be useful if you have connection problems (6) Karen Kenworthy's Snooper - "logs the start and stop time of all programs run under Windows" |
| U | pttrun | pttrun.exe | Transmeta Crusoe processor related. Reduces application launch times and makes the computer "more responsive" |
| N | PtUDFApp | PtUDFApp.exe | Sony abCD program, included on the CD Xtreme install CD, used to format CD-RWs for packet writing (similar to DirectCD). Available via Start -> Programs. Note that you must add a /T switch to the command line to get it to load to the taskbar |
| N | Pure Networks Port Magic | PortAOL.exe | Pure Networks Port Magic, as available in the latest version of the AOL? 9.0 Optimized SE software; automatically configures most in-home Internet gateways, improving access and performance for applications such as instant messaging, online gaming, and streaming music and video. See here |
| U | Purgative | PURGATIVE100.EXE | AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) Ad Remover Using Active Memory Edits instead of a patch/crack |
| N | Push Client | pull.exe | Client software from Interwise that MS use for their webcasts |
| N | Push The Freakin' Button | ptfb.exe | Push the Freakin' Button - "When a dialog causes irritation, you simply tell PTFB which button should be pressed, and it will handle the dialog in future" |
| N | PUSH6599 | PUSH6599.EXE | Scan button monitor for Relysis Episode MF6599 USB scanner as you can start scanning manually via the scanning software |
| X | PutA!! | PutA!!.exe | Added by the OPASERV.L WORM! |
| X | PutAS! | PutA!!.com | Added by the OPASERV.Z WORM! |
| X | putil | [filename] | Added by the LDPINCH TROJAN! |
| N | PVR | PVR.exe | Pocket Voice Recorder - freeware sound recorder that records from microphone and any other input line available with your sound card |
| X | Pwr32ctr | Pwr32ctr.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pwr32ctrl | Pwr32ctrl.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| X | Pwr32mgt | Pwr32mgt.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| Y | Pwrmonit | Rundll32 PwrMonit.dll | IBM's proprietary 'battery maximiser' and power monitoring software for laptops |
| X | Pwroff | Pwroff.exe | Added by the GEMA TROJAN! |
| U | Pwrsave | Pwrsave.exe | Toshiba Power Saver utilities. Required on a laptop if you run of a battery and want to conserve power |
| ? | Pwruplogin | pulogin.exe | ?? |
| U | PwrupTweakMe | PUPXPTWK.EXE | "Ashampoo PowerUp XP is a convenient tool for fine-tuning your Windows? NT4, 2000 and XP configuration to suit your precise needs and wishes. It gives you direct access to many frequently-required settings and parameters, enabling you to make your operating system behave the way you want." Boot-up options won't work if disabled |
| U | PWS Tray | PwsTray.exe | Microsoft's Personal Web Server, an application which allows PCs to behave as web servers (allows you to test your .asp pages on your own PC without having to load them onto the internet). Available via Start -> Programs |
| N | p_981116 | p_981116.exe | Win32 cabinet self extractor. More info here |
