What is csrss.exe?

csrss.exe stands for Client Server Runtime Process.

  • It's a crucial system process in Windows operating systems.
  • Originally responsible for a wide range of graphical functions.
  • From Windows NT 4.0 onwards, most of its graphical duties were moved to the kernel.
  • Now primarily manages console windows, GUI (Graphical User Interface) shutdown process, and some critical system functions.
  • It's essential for the system to function; terminating it usually results in a blue screen of death (BSOD).
  • Multiple instances of csrss.exe are usually a sign of malware. A legitimate system will usually have one or two processes running.