Maps.exe: What is it and Uses

Maps.exe is an executable file developed by Microsoft Corporation and is part of the ‘Maps’ software for Bing Maps utility. Although the Maps.exe is not an essential part of the Windows Operating System, and thus it can be safely disabled or removed. 

What is it and it uses

Formerly known as Windows Maps, Maps is an interactive geographical and spatial data tool that uses the Internet to map routes and locations of an entity. Its uses are:

• Providing 3D imagery of any location
• Giving route customization options- like avoiding traffic, tunnels, highways, tolls, etc.
• Providing construction or roadwork information on a route
• Search history option
• Drawing any picture or writing information on the map using Windows Ink toolbar
• Saving favorite location for easy access
• Accessing live feed from traffic cameras in certain metropolitan areas 

File size and location

The default location of Maps.exe is located under C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.WindowsMaps_5.1609.2651.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe\ directory.

And it’s approx file size is 16.4 KB.

Is it safe or a virus?

It is a legitimate safe program but a virus can assume a similar or same name in the system to go undetected by the anti-malware and firewall.

There are two ways to check this:

• In Task Manager, check exe file Properties and location path. If either of these doesn’t match with the default file location or publisher, then the process may be a virus. Since the location path for maps may be hidden by Microsoft, first enable viewing hidden system files using file explorer.
• In Microsoft Process Explorer, check if the process’ “Verified Signer” status is “Unable to Verify”. If yes, it’s a virus.

Errors

Some of the most common Maps.exe errors are:

• Cannot find maps.exe.
• Error starting program: maps.exe.

To fix this error, the best way is to re-install the software. For that, first, remove the Maps.exe using the Control panel and then download a fresh copy of the software from the Windows official website.

You can also download the latest version of Windows Map here.

How to remove it?

If the errors cannot be fixed, Maps.exe can be removed in the following ways:

• Using Control Panel
• Using third party uninstaller
• Using Command Prompt

The best way to remove safely Maps.exe from Windows Operating System is Control Panel >> Uninstall a program.