AutoKMS.exe – What is it, Uses, Malware & How to remove it

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AutoKMS.exe is an executable file and a part of AutoKMS software. It was developed by two persons who remain anonymous till date. As mostly identified, AutoKMS.exe is a malware or a hacking tool. Many people download this in order to exempt from payments of software or to crack unregistered Microsoft products. As a result, the users compromise their system security and make it prone to hacking.

In short, the AutoKMS.exe is an application that is used to bypass the Microsoft Activation and illegally used to activate Windows 10, 8, MS Office 2020. It’s strongly recommended to not to use AutoKMS and should always buy the original Windows Operating System.

The full form of AutoKMS is “Automatic Key Management System“.

File size, location, and facts

After installation, the file usually is stored in C:\Windows\AutoKMS. There are 28 known variants of AutoKMS whose sizes range from 1.71 MB to 6.19 MB. The most common are of size 3.72 MB and 3.73 MB.

Some Facts you need to know about AutoKMS.exe:

  • It is a malicious program or malware.
  • It is also an executable file.
  • It is not recognized by windows and not essential at all.
  • It is downloaded with the intent of cracking software to avoid payment.
  • It is dangerous for your system as it can manipulate or control other programs.
  • It has no visible window.
  • The program automatically starts as you boot your system.
  • It is either stored in C:\Windows or in a subfolder of C:\Windows\AutoKMS

How does AutoKMS work?

  • Auto KMS is deliberately downloaded by some users with ill intentions of using unregistered or pirated software.
  • If you are running any pirated software (Generally a pirated copy of Microsoft Office or Windows), you will definitely need AutoKMS to activate the software. Now, when AutoKMS is downloaded, the security of the system becomes vulnerable and can be easily hacked.

How dangerous is AutoKMS?

  • AutoKMS, as most sources identify is malware and can be used by the hackers to enter your system data.
  • As sources say, the risk factor of this file is moderate to high.
  • It not only makes it easy for hackers to enter your system but also downloads more malicious software along with it. Therefore, it is highly recommended to avoid this file.

How To Uninstall or remove AutoKMS?

Uninstall AutoKMS manually

Many experts have compared this file to the trojan virus but the good news is that, unlike a trojan virus, you can uninstall this program to make your system protected and safe.

By following a few simple steps, you can get rid of the file AutoKMS.exe-

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run application

2. Enter control in the Run text field and click OK to open the Control panel

3. Make sure you have selected Large Icons as the view type on the top-right corner of the Control panel window

control panel view type large

4. Select Programs and Features 

5. From the list of applications, locate and right-click AutoKMS then click Uninstall.

This is the best way to remove AutoKMS.exe from the system.

Remove AutoKMS using antivirus software

As of 2020, AutoKMS is detected as a virus under the parameters ‘HackTool: Win32/AutoKMS’. 

Your antivirus program can detect and remove/quarantine AutoKMS hack tool, just run a scan on your PC (specifically the C: drive). Or, if you don’t have third-party antivirus software, follow the methods below-

Remove AutoKMS using Windows Defender-

1. Search for Windows Security in the start menu and open it

2. Click on Virus & Threat Protection

3. Perform a quick scan.

scan

If the KMS file is still not detected and removed, go to Scan Options under the Quick scan button, choose Full scan then press Scan now.

Remove AutoKMS using Microsoft Safety Scanner

Microsoft’s official malware remover software, safety scanner is available here- https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/threat-protection/intelligence/safety-scanner-download

safety scanner by microsoft

Which one to download (32-bit or 64-bit)?

If you don’t know your system’s bit type, go to Settings (Press Win + I) > System About (In the side panel) > Check the system type displayed on the main panel.

system bit type

Conclusion

You must avoid downloading AutoKMS in the very first place. However, if you have mistakenly or intentionally downloaded it, follow the above steps and remove it to keep your system safe from hackers and malware. In case you have suggestions or queries, kindly contact us or leave a comment, I hope this article was informative.

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