trustedinstaller.exe information

TrustedInstaller.exe is it a suspicious file?

Trustedinstaller is the Windows Module Installer in Windows Vista. Although the name looks suspicious, TrustedInstaller.exe is a legitimate system process.

According to Microsoft, the Windows Module Installer is "the online interface to the servicing stack." Essentially, it installs system modules, most if not all of which seem to be related to downloading updates. This includes Windows Update, Windows Defender updates, and searching for updates for programs for which problems are reported in the Problem Reports and Solutions control panel. The Windows Module Installer gives these services the highest priority, which can be seen in the high CPU usage of TrustedInstaller.exe while installing updates.

Dangers of TrustedInstaller
With such a "trusted" name, it is possible for virus writers and spyware vendors to disguise their malware as the genuine trustedinstaller.exe.
Always make sure that your file is digitally signed by Microsoft.
If you have this process running and you don't have Windows Vista, you will have malware for sure.

Common problems
A common problem with TrustedInstaller.exe is that it will arbitrarily start using 100% CPU. Installing Windows Vista Service Pack 1 is reported to correct this issue in many systems; however, if the problem persists, it may be caused by one of the following:

• Your system is downloading or installing system updates. The only solution is to turn off automatic updates and manually update when you are not using your computer.
• You are using a piece of software for which there is a problem logged in the Problem Reports and Solutions control panel. Removing the offending entries should correct the problem.
• If TrustedInstaller.exe is using 100% CPU and neither of the above are true, open the Task Manager and try killing it as a workaround.