Process Information

Process File: smss.exe
Process Name: Session Manager Subsystem

Author: Microsoft Corp.
Part Of: Microsoft Windows Operating System

Description:
smss.exe is a process which is a part of the Microsoft Windows Operating System. It is called the Session Manager SubSystem and is responsible for handling sessions on your system. This program is important for the stable and secure running of your computer and should not be terminated.

This is the session manager subsystem, which is responsible for starting the user session. This process is initiated by the system thread and is responsible for various activities, including launching the Winlogon and Win32 (Csrss.exe) processes and setting system variables. After it has launched these processes, it waits for either Winlogon or Csrss to end. If this happens normally, the system shuts down; if it happens unexpectedly, Smss.exe causes the system to stop responding (hang).

Note: The smss.exe file is located in the C:\Windows\System32 folder or C:\Windows\servicepackfiles\i386 folder or C:\i386\system32 folder.
In other cases, smss.exe is a virus, spyware, trojan or worm!

You found Smss.exe file on Windows NT4/2000/XP/2003 only. If you have Windows 95/98/ME and found it, then you have a virus.

Note: smss.exe could also be a process which is registered as a trojan. This Trojan allows attackers to access your computer from remote locations, stealing passwords, Internet banking and personal data. It could also be a registered security risk and should be removed immediately.

Determining whether this process is a virus or a legitimate Windows process depends on the directory location it executes.

Recommendation for smss.exe:
Should not be disabled, required for essential applications to work properly.

System Process: Yes
Application: No
Background Process: Yes
Uses Network: No
Uses Internet: No