AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (2024)

by Aleksandar Ognjanovic

AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (1)

Aleksandar Ognjanovic

Troubleshooting Expert

Aleksandar's main passion is technology. With a solid writing background, he is determined to bring the bleeding edge to the common user. With a keen eye, he always... read more

Updated on

  • AutoKMS is not really a virus, but a hack tool downloaded intentionally by most users who try to activate unregistered Microsoft products.
  • In order to get rid of it, you can try to uninstall it as you do with any other application.
  • Windows 10 built-in security option is another solution that can eliminate this program.
  • If this fails, remove the autokms.exe by using one of the best anti-malware software tools.

AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (2)

ESET Antivirus comes with all the security tools that you may ever need to protect your data and privacy, including:

  • Anti-theft support
  • Webcam protection
  • Intuitive setup and UI
  • Multi-platform support
  • Banking-level encryption
  • Low system requirements
  • Advanced anti-malware protection

An antivirus program needs to be fast, efficient, and cost-effective, and this one has them all.

The virus threat has always been there but nowadays, it’s rising to be a major problem for both individual users and big companies.

There are many malwaresignatures circulating freely, but one that’s commonly known is AutoKMS.

Today, we brought to you details about this software with ways to remove it from your system for good. So, if you bump into AutoKMS in Windows 10, make sure to check the explanation below.

What is AutoKMS.exe and how can I remove it?

1. Discover what AutoKMS.exe is

AutoKMS virus is not a virus per se, it’s more of a hack tool. Most of the time users download it intentionally.

They want to crack or activate unregistered Microsoft products, and therefore bypass the security measures, and avoid payment.

AutoKMS is graded as a low or medium threat. Most of the time, the unregistered software that comes with it is the real threat, like the Trojan virus.

On the other hand, it’s still an illegal third-party tool, so you can never be sure what you’re looking at. Since it connects to the remote host, there are a dozen unwanted scenarios.

It can grant access to hackers or download malicious software and much more. Some Microsoft technicians claim that AutoKMS is a variation of the Troyan virus, but not all go that far.

Simply because you can uninstall it anytime, and that’s just not the case with Trojan viruses.

Now, you might ask how it works. Basically, once you’ve downloaded a pirated version of, let’s say, Microsoft Office 2016, you’ll need AutoKMS to activate it.

You’ll be advised to disable the antivirus, and that’s not a smart thing to do. The tool can run in the background with the portable version or it can be installed just like any other application.

It connects to remote servers to mimic Microsoft’s KMS Activation process. Then, it activates your license for up to 180 days.

After expiration, you need to run it again and, voila, you’ll get a new license for 180 days.

It sounds great but it’s not. For various reasons. First, pirated versions of Windows or MS Office are not safe to use. Most of them might serve as a testing ground but not much more.

Expert tip:

SPONSORED

Some PC issues are hard to tackle, especially when it comes to corrupted repositories or missing Windows files. If you are having troubles fixing an error, your system may be partially broken.
We recommend installing Restoro, a tool that will scan your machine and identify what the fault is.
Click hereto download and start repairing.

Second, large installation packages are heaven for hackers, where they can tamper with files and add whatever they want.

Additionally, if you use AutoKMS with original Microsoft products, there’s a great chance that things will go south for you.

Due to security measures, the whole structure can crash or substantially drop in performance. Therefore, we advise you to remove it as soon as possible.

2. Uninstall AutoKMS like any other app

  1. In the Search bar, type Control and open Control Panel.AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (3)
  2. In the Category view, click on Uninstall a program.AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (4)
  3. Find AutoKMS and uninstall it.
  4. Remove the downloaded installation files.

As we already stated above, you can simply uninstall it. Navigate to Control Panel and remove it just like any other application. If you’re not sure how to do it, follow the instructions above.

You can’t open Control Panel? Take a look at this step-by-step guide to find a solution.

3. Get rid of AutoKMS by using dedicated malware tools

AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (5)

The best way to remove all malware from your computer is to use an antivirus or antimalware dedicated tool.

However, don’t you imagine that we’re talking about a tool for advanced users. This anti-malware software and malware removal is easy to use and can help you forget all about AutoKMS.exe.

Since it is a modern all-in-one solution, it is lightweight and based on artificial intelligence and machine learning to keep your data safe even from the latest online threats.

AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (6)

ESET Antivirus

Remove malware and protect your computer with one of the best modern antivirus solutions.

Free trialVisit website

4. Perform a deep scan with Windows Defender

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows+ I hotkey combination.
  2. Select Update & Security.AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (7)
  3. Open Windows Security or Windows Defender from the left pane.AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (8)
  4. Choose Virus & threat protection.AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (9)
  5. Click on Scan options and select Microsoft Defender Offline Scan.AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (10)
  6. Save everything before you proceed because the PC will restart.AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (11)
  7. Wait for the process to finish.

Follow the instructions above to perform a deep scan with Windows Defender. Your PC will restart and perform a thorough search for any malicious software and remove it.

If you need more info on how to perform a full system scan directly from Windows Security Center, don’t hesitate to check our dedicated guide.

After that, you should be in the clear. In addition, it’s your decision whether you’ll uninstall and delete the pirated program or not. But, always have in mind that free software tools aren’t always safe.

AutoKMS is only one suspicious piece of pirated software and there are others, much more dangerous files out there, carefully hidden within the installation.

We also recommend you to keep your computer safe by installing a great malware remover tool. If you aren’t sure which is the best, check our detailed guide for more information.

What’s your experience with AutoKMS? Tell us in the comments section below.

This article covers:Topics:

Was this page helpful?

x

Start a conversation

comments

    Leave a Reply

    AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (12)

    Newsletter

    AutoKMS.exe: Here's how it works and how to remove it (2024)

    FAQs

    What happens if I remove AutoKMS? ›

    It can grant access to hackers or download malicious software and much more. Some Microsoft technicians claim that AutoKMS is a variation of the Troyan virus, but not all go that far. Simply because you can uninstall it anytime, and that's just not the case with Trojan viruses.

    Is AutoKMS a malware? ›

    AutoKMS is Malwarebytes' generic detection name for hacktools that are intended to enable the illegal use of Microsoft products like Windows and Office.

    How do I get rid of KMS HackTool? ›

    To remove the HackTool:Win32/AutoKMS Trojan, follow these steps: STEP 1: Use Malwarebytes Free to remove HackTool:Win32/AutoKMS Trojan. STEP 2: Use HitmanPro to scan for malware and unwanted programs. STEP 3: Double-check for other malicious programs with Emsisoft Emergency Kit.

    How do I remove HackTool Msil AutoKMS? ›

    Removal Instructions for HackTool:MSIL/AutoKMS. I! MTB Trojan
    1. STEP 1: Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking.
    2. STEP 2: Use Malwarebytes to remove the HackTool:MSIL/AutoKMS. ...
    3. STEP 3: Scan and clean your computer with HitmanPro.
    4. STEP 4: Double-check for the HackTool:MSIL/AutoKMS.
    7 Aug 2022

    How do I permanently remove kms from Windows 10? ›

    Step by Step Guide:
    1. Identify the activation ID by running this cmd: Slmgr/dlv.
    2. Uninstall the KMS host key first by running CMD: Slmgr/upk < activation ID>
    3. Then, install the default kms key by running the following command: slmgr /ipk <KMS Client Setup Key> ...
    4. Delete the record from the DNS: ...
    5. The KMS server is uninstalled.
    18 Sept 2018

    How do I get rid of KMS malware? ›

    How to remove KMSPico Trojan (Virus Removal Guide)
    1. STEP 1: Uninstall KMSPico from Windows.
    2. STEP 2: Use Zemana AntiMalware Free to remove KMSPico Trojan.
    3. STEP 3: Use Malwarebytes to scan for Adware and Trojans.
    4. STEP 4: Double-check for malicious programs with HitmanPro.
    14 Jan 2018

    Is kms a Hacktool? ›

    KMS is Malwarebytes' detection name for a Hacktool that allows the user to use Microsoft software illegally.

    Should I delete kms? ›

    You should delete a KMS key only when you are sure that you don't need to use it anymore. If you are not sure, consider disabling the KMS key instead of deleting it. You can re-enable a disabled KMS key if you need to use it again later, but you cannot recover a deleted KMS key.

    Is Hacktool Win32 AutoKMS a virus? ›

    Windows Defender detects and removes this threat. It can be used to "crack" or patch unregistered copies of Microsoft software. Don't use hacktools as they can be associated with malware or unwanted software.

    Can I delete kms after activation? ›

    Yes you can remove KMSpico but dont do it. You may have activated windows or ms office with kmspico now you think that it is useless, no its not like this, to keep your windows activated do not remove kmspico. If you remove it then your windows will go again in trail mode.

    Is KMS activation harmful? ›

    Kms is not a Legitimate way to activate Windows. Buy a key. Any discussion on how to engage in piracy is not allowed, including the discussion of hacking or cracking. Discussion of piracy in general is acceptable (e.g. "Game X becomes the most pirated game ever").

    Is AutoKMS exe safe? ›

    It is usually get installed when someone tries to crack Microsoft office or window. Win32/AutoKMS.exe is not necessarily dangerous or harmful. It is used to bypass Microsoft activation.

    What is Kmsauto Hacktool? ›

    Summary. An activator program that is used to activate installations of the Windows operating system.

    Is Hacktool a Trojan? ›

    Hacktool:Win32/Keygen is an illegal tool designed to generate activation keys for various licensed programs. The tool itself is not malicious, but it is commonly bundled with trojans, ransomware, and other malware.

    Is Hacktool agent a virus? ›

    Hacktools can be used to patch or "crack" some software so it will run without a valid license or genuine product key. Beware of running hacktools because they can be associated with malware or unwanted software. Microsoft Defender Antivirus detects and removes this threat.

    What is HackTool used for? ›

    hacktool is used as a component of other malware. It is used for listening and connecting to remote IP/port.

    What is a HackTool file? ›

    Hacktool. is Malwarebytes' detection name for a category of riskware that is intended to hack into computers and networks.

    What is HackTool agent? ›

    HackTool. Agent is a generic detection for tools that are used to gain unauthorized access.

    Can Microsoft detect KMS? ›

    When a supported version of Windows or Office is installed, the computer will attempt to discover the KMS Server on the network. This is accomplished by checking for an SRV record in the DNS Zone of the computer. If that record is present, the computer will contact the KMS server and automatically activate the license.

    How do I reset my KMS? ›

    From the menu, select Configure > Cluster Settings. From the left pane, select Security. The Security page displays the configured KMS. Select Reset KMS.

    How do I find my KMS host key? ›

    Retrieve KMS License Key from the VLSC for Windows Server 2019
    1. Log on to the Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC).
    2. Click License.
    3. Click Relationship Summary.
    4. Click License ID of your current Active License.
    5. After the page loads, click Product Keys.
    6. In the list of keys, locate Windows Srv 2019 DataCtr/Std KMS.
    23 Feb 2022

    Is KMS CMD activation safe? ›

    CMD really has nothing to do with it. Do you have a valid license? Then running the activation code by any means at all is totally valid. If you do not have a license and are following an Internet tutorial then no, it is not legal.

    Is changing KMS server safe? ›

    Yes, you can. A server is just a computer that provides a functionality to other computer in the network called clients.

    Is Kmspico a Trojan? ›

    It is extensively disseminated under a variety of names and variants on phoney download sites and file-sharing networks like BitTorrent. It can lead to a variety of dangerous acts as soon as it is installed, including data theft, Trojan operations, and more.

    Is HackTool kms harmful? ›

    Is HackTool:Win32 AutoKMS safe? Yes, Win32/AutoKMS. A is absolutely safe …. It's just an activation service to activate Windows8/8.1/10(Ofcourse illegally, though you would not be jailed for it).

    How do I turn off Microsoft virus protection? ›

    Turn off Defender antivirus protection in Windows Security
    1. Select Start and type "Windows Security" to search for that app.
    2. Select the Windows Security app from the search results, go to Virus & threat protection, and under Virus & threat protection settings select Manage settings.
    3. Switch Real-time protection to Off.

    Is kms genuine? ›

    Yes, KMS activation is illegal for Windows. If you activate through the KMS method then your copy of Windows would not be considered genuine by Windows.

    What is KMS deletion window? ›

    Description. Schedules the deletion of a KMS key. By default, KMS applies a waiting period of 30 days, but you can specify a waiting period of 7-30 days. When this operation is successful, the key state of the KMS key changes to PendingDeletion and the key can't be used in any cryptographic operations.

    How do I uninstall key manager? ›

    Procedure
    1. From the navigation pane, go to Manage > Security. The Security page appears.
    2. Click the Key management servers tile. ...
    3. In the Actions column for the key management server, click the action button, and then click Delete.
    4. In the Confirm delete dialog box that appears, click Yes.
    7 Nov 2019

    How do I clean up files I don't need? ›

    One of the easiest ways to clean up files you no longer need is by using Disk Cleanup. Open Disk Cleanup by clicking the Start button . In the search box, type Disk Cleanup, and then, in the list of results, select Disk Cleanup. If prompted, select the drive that you want to clean up, and then select OK.

    Is Hacktool win64 Autokms safe? ›

    Beware of running hacktools because they can be associated with malware or unwanted software. We often see malware on PCs where hacktools are detected. You can read more about hacktools in Volume 13 of the Security Intelligence Report.

    How remove Hacktool:Win32 Autokms SA MSR? ›

    Use the following free Microsoft software to detect and remove this threat: Windows Defender for Windows 10 and Windows 8.1, or Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows 7 and Windows Vista. Microsoft Safety Scanner.

    Does kms have virus? ›

    No, KMS Auto is not a Virus file but it is simply a activator file. It just activator or unlock the full version of application. Yes antivirus software detect it as virus but they are not. Many hacking files and applications like Tor browser, wireshark, metaexploit etc are not virus but Antivirus shows them as virus.

    How long does a KMS activation last? ›

    KMS activations are valid for 180 days, a period known as the activation validity interval. KMS clients must renew their activation by connecting to the KMS host at least once every 180 days to stay activated. By default, KMS client computers attempt to renew their activation every seven days.

    How long is KMS activation? ›

    Any Windows client that configured to use 'KMS Client Channel' will be activated against the new KMS host automatically within 2 hours (as this is the 'KMS Activation Interval' default value).

    How many times can a KMS key be used? ›

    A KMS Key is used to activate the KMS host computer with a Microsoft activation server and can activate up to six KMS hosts with 10 activations per host. Each KMS host can activate an unlimited number of computers.

    How do I delete KMS server? ›

    Step by Step Guide:
    1. Uninstall the KMS host key first by running the following command: slmgr -upk.
    2. Then, install the default kms key by running the following command: slmgr /ipk [KMS Client Setup Key] ...
    3. Delete the record from the DNS: Open DNS console: ...
    4. The KMS server is uninstalled.
    29 Jun 2010

    Is KMS activation legal? ›

    KMS is a legitimate way to activate Windows licenses in client computers, especially en masse (volume activation). There is even a Microsoft document on creating a KMS activation host.

    How does a KMS Activator work? ›

    How KMS works. without having to enter a license key, a KMS software product automatically looks for a local KMS server during the installation. The software activates itself for 180 days if a KMS server has been found. Every week the software contacts the KMS server to reset this timespan back to 180 days.

    Is Hacktool bat Autokms a virus? ›

    Beware of running hacktools because they can be associated with malware or unwanted software. We often see malware on PCs where hacktools are detected. You can read more about hacktools in Volume 13 of the Security Intelligence Report.

    What is KMS auto exe? ›

    The file is not a Windows system file. It is a file with no information about its developer. KMSAuto.exe is able to monitor applications and manipulate other programs. Uninstalling this variant: You can uninstall KMSAuto (Ratiborus, MSFree Inc.), or ask Support team for help. Go to KMSAuto (Ratiborus, MSFree Inc.)

    Is cheat engine a Trojan? ›

    Cheat Engine itself is not a virus. A few antivirus marks it as malware or PUP because it can attach itself to processes and modify memory. The installer you download through their official website is bundled with a bunch of adware.

    Why is Keygen virus detected? ›

    TL;DR: It does so because those cracks/keygens/etc contain a signature of the virus it detects. Whether or not it is real and why it detects that, can't be answered.

    What is the difference between KMSAuto and KMSPico? ›

    KMSPico supports multiple languages so if you do not speak English you have a choice of using any other language on your machine whereas KMSAuto does not offer this feature. KMSPico is not compatible with the activation of Windows 7 that you can have with KMSAuto.

    What malware do hackers use? ›

    Keylogger. Keylogger is a type of spyware and is one of the most common and dangerous types of malware that steals sensitive data. Software companies legitimately use keylogger software to get feedback for development improvements, but it's also used maliciously by hackers to steal data.

    Do Trojans steal data? ›

    A Trojan virus on a computer, or simply a Trojan, is a malicious software program or code masquerading as legitimate and harmless software. Once it infects a device, it executes its task, which may include deleting or modifying data, stealing data, installing additional malware, and disrupting system performance.

    Can Trojans steal passwords? ›

    Password Stealing Ware (PSW) steals passwords from infected computers. Trojans of this type can search for passwords kept by users inside files or by web browsers. Some variants may steal software licenses and system/network passwords.

    Can you get ransomware just by clicking on a link? ›

    Clicking on a phishing link or opening an attachment in one of these messages may install malware, like viruses, spyware or ransomware, on your device.

    Is Trojan Agent a virus? ›

    Technical Details. Trojan:W32/Agent is a subset of the "Agent" family, which groups together a wide variety of malware that do not fit into any other known families. The Agent family includes trojans, worms, viruses, backdoors and other types of malicious programs.

    Is hack the same as virus? ›

    Hacking is the attempt to exploit weaknesses and openings in the defence systems of phones and computers. It is in essence, the unauthorized access or control of an individual's device or network. Viruses are code programs with the ability to replicate themselves in computer/phone systems to spread rapidly.

    Can you be hacked without clicking? ›

    Dridi's phone got compromised anyway with what's called a “zero-click” attack, which allows a hacker to break into a phone or computer even if its user doesn't open a malicious link or attachment. Hackers instead exploit a series of security flaws in operating systems — such as Apple's iOS or Google's Android — to ...

    What is Trojan hack? ›

    A Trojan, or Trojan horse, is a type of malware that conceals its true content to fool a user into thinking it's a harmless file. Like the wooden horse used to sack Troy, the "payload" carried by a Trojan is unknown to the user, but it can act as a delivery vehicle for a variety of threats.

    How do I get rid of KMS hack tool? ›

    To remove the HackTool:Win32/AutoKMS Trojan, follow these steps:
    1. STEP 1: Use Malwarebytes Free to remove HackTool:Win32/AutoKMS Trojan.
    2. STEP 2: Use HitmanPro to scan for malware and unwanted programs.
    3. STEP 3: Double-check for other malicious programs with Emsisoft Emergency Kit.
    7 Apr 2020

    Is HackTool Win32 AutoKMS a virus? ›

    Windows Defender detects and removes this threat. It can be used to "crack" or patch unregistered copies of Microsoft software. Don't use hacktools as they can be associated with malware or unwanted software.

    Can you get hacked by opening a file? ›

    Opening Or Downloading Attachments

    The thing that puts you at the biggest risk of being hacked is opening an attachment in an email message. Hackers can hide viruses, ransomware, and other types of malware in these pieces of media.

    Why crack files are detected as virus? ›

    The reason the false positives show up is because of the packers used to make the executable files. Cracks in particular show as infected because they are both packed, but also attempt to access other files with executable code at specific byte locations and modify them.

    Is Hacktool Win32 patch? ›

    Windows Defender detects and removes this threat. This threat is used to patch or crack some software so it will run without a valid license or genuine product key. We recommend you don't run this hacktool as it can be associated with malware or unwanted software.

    Is Hacktool Win32 GameHack a virus? ›

    Win32/GameHack is malware that is often bundled with game applications. It commonly displays unwanted pop-up advertisem*nts and may be present or installed as a web Browser Helper Object.

    Is Win32 AutoKMS a virus? ›

    Yes, Win32/AutoKMS. A is absolutely safe …. It's just an activation service to activate Windows8/8.1/10(Ofcourse illegally, though you would not be jailed for it). The antivirus programs show it as malicious since it tries to keep your Windows OS activated by modifying some system file.

    Should I remove Hacktool:Win32? ›

    The tool itself is not harmful, but Hacktool:Win32/Keygen is often delivered together with malware. Therefore, users who have installed Hacktool:Win32/Keygen (or it has infiltrated without their consent) are very likely to have infected computers.

    What is Hacktool auto kms? ›

    HackTool:Win32/AutoKMS

    It can be used to "crack" or patch unregistered copies of Microsoft software. Don't use hacktools as they can be associated with malware or unwanted software. We have seen malware distributed with these tools.

    Is AutoKMS EXE safe? ›

    It is usually get installed when someone tries to crack Microsoft office or window. Win32/AutoKMS.exe is not necessarily dangerous or harmful. It is used to bypass Microsoft activation.

    Is KMSPico spyware? ›

    KMSPico Malware is a hacking program that claims to be a Microsoft Windows and Office activator. It is extensively disseminated under a variety of names and variants on phoney download sites and file-sharing networks like BitTorrent.

    How do I force delete KMS key? ›

    Scheduling and canceling key deletion (console)
    1. To change the AWS Region, use the Region selector in the upper-right corner of the page.
    2. In the navigation pane, choose Customer managed keys. ...
    3. Select the check box next to the KMS key that you want to delete.
    4. Choose Key actions, Schedule key deletion.

    Is it safe to turn off Microsoft Defender Antivirus? ›

    On its own, it is entirely safe to disable Windows Defender. The problem arises when you disable it without providing a replacement. Make sure you have another security suite set up—and of course the onus is still on you to practice sensible safety precautions.

    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Tyson Zemlak

    Last Updated:

    Views: 5231

    Rating: 4.2 / 5 (43 voted)

    Reviews: 82% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Tyson Zemlak

    Birthday: 1992-03-17

    Address: Apt. 662 96191 Quigley Dam, Kubview, MA 42013

    Phone: +441678032891

    Job: Community-Services Orchestrator

    Hobby: Coffee roasting, Calligraphy, Metalworking, Fashion, Vehicle restoration, Shopping, Photography

    Introduction: My name is Tyson Zemlak, I am a excited, light, sparkling, super, open, fair, magnificent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.