On many computers, the BtvStack.exe process can be detected. What is this - few people know, because information in the system is difficult to find, especially for an ordinary user. This article provides information about what kind of process it is and what it is needed for, how to use it and what threats there may be.
BtvStack.exe - what is it?
Speaking about the BtvStack.exe process, it’s worth understanding that we are talking about software developed by Atheros Communications to support the functionality of Bluetooth adapters in the Windows operating system environment. You may also find a process called BTStackServer.exe. This is the same file with the same properties, only it provides headsets from the manufacturer Broadcom and WIDCOMM.
This software allows you to interact with Bluetooth adapters and headsets. With it, you can set the parameters you need. Based on this, we can conclude that the process is not particularly important for the system, and after its completion no critical errors will appear.
Process location
Where is the BtvStack.exe executable file located? This can be useful in solving some problems that may arise when working at a computer.
And it is located in a directory called Bluetooth Suite, which is located in the Program Files directory on the system drive. But if you are not comfortable working with the file manager, you can open the desired folder in another way - through the "Task Manager".
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to launch it.
- Go to the "Processes" or "Details" tab (depending on the version of the operating system).
- Find the name of the process in the list.
- Right-click on it and select "Open file location."
After that, the desired folder will open, and the file you are looking for will be highlighted in it.
Virus or not?
Most often, the user sees the name of the BtvStack.exe process in Skype. When the program starts, a message appears asking for permission to use some components of the messenger with this process. Many users are afraid to provide it, fearing that it is a virus. Is it so?
It is clear that BtvStack.exe is the process responsible for the operation of Bluetooth modules, which means that it cannot be considered viral. But the fact is that attackers can develop a dangerous virus and call it the same name to confuse the user.
How to distinguish a virus?
Yes, BtvStack.exe can act as a virus. But how to distinguish it from a genuine program? In total, three methods can be distinguished. All of them are quite simple to execute, and most importantly - following them, you can protect your computer from getting malicious programs into the system.
- The system rarely allows two identically named processes, so attackers slightly change the name, but so that this difference is difficult to distinguish. Open the "Task Manager" and carefully read the name, if it differs from BtvStack.exe, then most likely it is a virus.
- Do not forget about why the BtvStack.exe process is needed in the system - for working with Bluetooth modules. So, if you do not have any headset, then there should not be a process in the system. Otherwise, it is a virus.
- Above, the article provides information about where the process executable file should be located in the Bluetooth Suite folder. Check the location of the suspicious process. If it differs, then it is a virus.
Now you know how to distinguish a virus hiding under the name BtvStack.exe from a genuine program.
Is it possible to give access to Skype
When you start Skype, it may display a message: "BtvStack.exe wants to use Skype." Do not rush to give permission, first check the system for viruses using the previously described instructions. If there is no danger, then you can safely grant permission.
Conclusion
Now it’s clear that BtvStack.exe is a process that is not mandatory in the system, but it does not harm it in any way. Of course, if it is not a virus. Fighting the virus is also not difficult, so you can not worry about the security of your personal data.