What is Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry (CompatTelRunner.exe) in Windows 10?

In this article, we will tell you what is Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry or CompatTelRunner.exe on Windows 10 / Windows 7.

Our computer runs on a number of processes, most of which run in the background. While most of them are necessary for the system to run smoothly, there are a few processes which are unnecessary. Actually, these unnecessary processes are not completely useless. They have a job to do and they do it fine. But while doing their job, they harm our system too. When Windows 7 was introduced to our computers, people found it very interesting. They were pretty bored of using Windows XP for so many years. When some people started digging, they saw Windows 7 had one process which was affecting their system. It was CompatTelRunner.exe or Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry.

Usually, these types of files go unnoticed, as they do not impact our computer in a negative manner. But this file was causing some serious issues. It is present in these Windows editions: Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 and Window 10. There were no issues with this file in Windows 8. But it is causing problems again in Windows 10. But how does it affect your system, and what is CompatTelRunner.exe? Check out below.

What is Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry?

CompatTelRunner.exe a.k.a. Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry is added to Windows Operating Systems by Microsoft itself. Hence, we can assure you that it is not a virus. The file is present on your computer in the C:\Windows\System32 folder, however, it is not visible. The task of this file is to make sure the compatibility of your system when the latest Windows update is available. So, in short, CompatTelRunner helps in installing the new updates. Another one of its uses is to keep all the Windows devices secure, along with improving the quality of their services. The tasks provided to this file by Microsoft are pretty important and keeps our system ready for the newest updates.

Now that we know it is an important file, one must be wondering why is it causing problems?

How is Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry Affecting Windows Systems?

As it is already clear that this file is a part of our computer’s operating system, now the question is why and how is it causing us trouble?

CompatTelRunner.exe or Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry has its own task to do. But, while doing its work, it is using a lot of bandwidth in Windows 10. As a result of using too much bandwidth or causing high CPU usage, it slows down our system. It is worth noting that this file is not causing problems for every user. But, many users are facing issues like lag in the system, application exits, screen freezes, etc.

The file was known to cause similar issues in Windows 7 as well. There are ways to remove it completely from your computer. But, what has angered the users is its Malware-like behavior. The file installs itself again after removing. Even though there is an option in the update settings that says “Download important update but let me choose whether to install them”. But this file installs itself without any authorization. It may not be a virus, but it sure works like one. There is not much beneficial or legitimate purpose of Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry, and it also causes serious performance issues.

Conclusion

The file CompatTelRunner.exe has its uses, which are not very important and it’s slowing down our PCs. We know this file is affecting many of our readers, but only Microsoft can come with an alternative. We hope we were able to help you understand Microsoft Compatibility Telemetry and its uses on Windows 10. Share your thoughts in the comment section below.