subject: Information About Smss.exe [print this page] Smss.exe is one of those processes used by the Windows operating system. Knowing the crucial role it plays will help keep your OS running smoothly.
Basic Function
The process is part of the Session Manager Subsystem. Its main role is to organize the sessions taking place in the environment. Its vital role is the reason why it is included in most versions of Windows.
Currently it is used in XP, Windows NT, 2000 and Server 2003. Windows Vista also incorporates it. Earlier versions of Windows do not. Apart from session management, smss.exe is used in the following ways.
Other Tasks
Its other purpose is to create environmental variables. These are necessary for the OS to process information. In addition, the process activates the kernel. It also plays a role in running the Win32 subsystem. This is one of the most important processes in Windows.
There are many components included in this subsystem. Among them are win32k.sys and winsrv.dll. The former is in kernel mode and the latter in user mode. The csrss.exe is also harnessed. These system files are all started by smss.exe.
Other files and processes commenced are those in the following Registry key: HKLM\\System\\CurrentControlSet\\Control\\Session Manager\\SubSystems. The process also initializes DOS device mappings.
Among them are LPT1, NUL and CON. AUX, COM1 and the drive letters are also started. The drive letters make it possible to identify and use the disk drives and CD / DVD on computers.
These mappings are located at the following Registry key: HKLM\\System\\CurrentControlSet\\Control\\Session Manager\\DOS Devices. The process also makes memory paging files (virtual memory). It also checks the Windows Logon Manager (winlogon.exe).
Note: those Registry keys can be accessed with the Registry editor. Do not modify those values without an original backup copy of the file.
How the Program Runs
This is a memory resident application. When the PC is booted, it allocates space for itself in memory. If you load Windows Task Manager, you'll see smss.exe. While the session takes place, it keeps an eye on winlogon.exe and csrss.exe.
If there are no problems, the OS will shut down. If there are difficulties, the system may crash. It may refuse to shut down too. The reason is this component.
Trojan Virus
Some Trojan viruses use this name to disguise itself. Different versions of the malware are around. The most destructive ones can destroy your files and steal passwords.
If you do online banking, the Trojan can steal the data. Use Windows' search feature to see how many are in your system. If there are many, run a virus scanner. It will remove the illegitimate ones.
Do not delete the legitimate one. In fact you should not terminate it at any point. Doing so will produce serious repercussions for your system. If the system hangs, try rebooting. If the problem doesn't go away, you may have to reinstall the operating system.
Smss.exe is one of the most important components in your PC. This is the reason why hackers use viruses with that name. Don't allow yourself to be deceived. By having an updated antivirus program, you can remove the malware.
