Issue What is 'LockAppHost.exe'?

What is 'LockAppHost.exe'?

Both Windows 10 and 11 users may notice a strange entry named 'LockAppHost.exe' as part of the processes currently active on the system and wonder if it is a sign of a malware threat having invaded their computers. Fortunately, this is an official application and executable released by Microsoft to handle the system's lock screen, as its name might suggest. 

More specifically, it is responsible for the overlay displayed on the login screen. LockAppHost.exe shows the wallpaper, time, and any notifications that the user has enabled. You can activate it manually by clicking the Windows + L on the keyboard. The application is designed to take up a minuscule fraction of the system's resources and it closes itself or enters a suspended state when the lock screen is no longer active. 

How to Check If 'LockAppHost.exe' is Legitimate?

Cybercriminals are known for trying to hide their threatening creations by disguising them as official Windows components. If you notice that on your system LockAppHost.exe is always active or if it is taking up an exorbitant amount of CPU resources, it could be a signal that something is not right. 

The first step would be to check the directory where LockAppHost.exe is placed. It should be in its official file location at C:\Windows\System32. To check if this is the case, follow these steps:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open 'Task Manager.'
  2. Locate 'LockAppHost.exe' in the list of processes.
  3. Right-click it.
  4. From the available options, select 'Open file location.' 

If a location different than the default one appears, it may be best to run a scan with a reputable security solution. You can scan the files in the folder individually or run a full system scan to see if anything comes up. 

Disabling LockAppHost.exe

If you wish to prevent LockAppHost.exe from activating, do not delete the official file as that could cause issues with the lock screen or leave you stuck on it. The proper way to disable the process is to turn the lock screen feature. You can do so by following these instructions:

  1. Type netplwiz in the Search box on the taskbar and press Enter.
  2. The 'User Accounts' window should appear.
  3. Locate the 'Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer.' option and uncheck the corresponding checkbox. 
  4. To confirm the change you may be asked to provide your Admin account credentials.
  5. Restart the PC and confirm that the login screen no longer appears. 
Loading...