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cmdshell.dll: Is It Safe?

Name used by various trojans (e.g. Command Shell Trojan). If found in System32 without valid signature, delete immediately.

Quick facts

How to check this file on your PC

1. Open ShellExView ( download guide) as Administrator.
2. Find cmdshell.dll in the list (Ctrl+F).
3. Note the full path. Prefer Program Files for known vendors; treat Temp, Downloads, or random AppData paths as higher risk.
4. Right-click the file in Explorer → Properties → Digital Signatures (or use Sysinternals sigcheck).

Disable without uninstalling

1. In ShellExView: Options → Hide All Microsoft Extensions.
2. Select the row for cmdshell.dll.
3. Press F7 (Disable Selected Items).
4. Options → Restart Explorer (or Ctrl+E).
5. Test right-click. Re-enable with F8 if something breaks.

FAQ

Is cmdshell.dll a virus?

cmdshell.dll is not automatically malware, but it is flagged as Warning: Name used by various trojans (e.g. Command Shell Trojan). If found in System32 without valid signature, delete immediately.

How do I disable cmdshell.dll?

Download ShellExView from NirSoft, run it as Administrator, hide Microsoft extensions, find cmdshell.dll, press F7 to disable, then restart Explorer.

Who publishes cmdshell.dll?

Listed company/vendor: Various. Type: Malware.

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