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What is Rtkauduservice64.exe? Is it safe or should you remove it?

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  • 4 min read

If you have ever noticed a process called Rtkauduservice64.exe running in the background of your Windows computer, you may have wondered what it is and if it is safe to keep on your system.

In this article, we’ll explain what Rtkauduservice64.exe is, what its purpose is, and whether you should remove it from your computer.


What is Rtkauduservice64.exe?

Rtkauduservice64.exe is an executable file linked to the Realtek High Definition Audio Driver, a software component that facilitates high-quality audio playback on Windows operating systems. Realtek, a prominent manufacturer of audio hardware and software solutions, is widely recognised for its audio drivers, which various computer manufacturers extensively employ.

The Rtkauduservice64.exe process is crucial in overseeing audio-related services and processes on your computer. Its primary responsibility is to guarantee the proper functioning of your audio devices while also delivering essential features such as audio enhancements, equalisers, and audio effects.

Upon installation of the Realtek High Definition Audio Driver, Rtkauduservice64.exe is automatically integrated into your system startup, ensuring the continual availability of audio services.

Also read: Fix: The requested operation requires elevation


Is Rtkauduservice64.exe safe to use?

Yes, Rtkauduservice64.exe is safe for your device and does not contain viruses or other malware. In fact, it is an important process that lets you hear audio.

However, sometimes, malware may be disguised as the process name and is hard to discover. You may think that this malicious process is just another of Realtek’s audio components ignoring it.

Therefore you must check the file location and digital signature to assess the safety of the particular background process.

Open file location

Locating the background process file location is quite easy on Windows. If the file location is other than the C drive, it may be a malicious file. While you’re at it, do check the file name also. Usually, the hackers will load a file name similar to the real one with one or two alphabets or numerals missing or changed.

This is an image of realauduservice64openfilelocation 1

Open Task Manager and then right-click on the process. After that, select Open file location. Now, take a look at the file path at the top.

This is an image of realauduservice64 1

Verify digital signature

A digital signature is a tool to verify the integrity and authenticity of a file on your device.

To verify the digital signature of the Rtkauduservice64.exe file, follow the steps given below:

Step 1: Head to the Task Manager and then search for this process at the top. When you locate the process, right-click on it and select Properties.

This is an image of realauduservice64properties 1

Step 2: Head to Digital Signatures and click on the manufacturer. After that, click on Details.

This is an image of realauduservice64digitalsignature 1

Step 3: Next, click on View Certificate to view all the information.

This is an image of realauduservice64digitalsignature 1 1

If you find that Realtek has signed the file, it is fine, and you don’t have to worry any more. However, if you find that the file is unsigned or is signed by an unknown vendor, it is cause for worry, and you should immediately remove the file and scan your computer.

Also read: Is Zoro.to safe?


Should I remove Rtkauduservice64.exe?

We do not advise you to remove it now that the Rtkauduservice64.exe process is safe and necessary for proper audio.

Removing this file may result in the following:

  • Disrupted audio functionality
  • The apps and games that use the audio driver will be incompatible.
  • Removing this file may also result in system crashes and issues.

In conclusion, Rtkauduservice64.exe is a safe file, and as long as you have checked the file location and the digital signature, you shouldn’t worry. Also, you should not uninstall or remove this file as it is an important audio component of your computer.

Also read: Is Lumin PDF safe?

Kumar Hemant

Kumar Hemant

Deputy Editor at Candid.Technology. Hemant writes at the intersection of tech and culture and has a keen interest in science, social issues and international relations. You can contact him here: kumarhemant@pm.me

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