VS_PreClean_vs.exe is a legitimate Microsoft executable. When sourced directly from an official Visual Studio ISO file, it is . It bears a valid digital signature from Microsoft (depending on the specific build) and contains no malicious code.
You should delete the genuine version of this file, as doing so will break the update mechanics or compile sequences of your development tools. However, if your security software flags it as a Trojan or Adware variant located outside standard directory paths, quarantine and delete the file immediately.
Sometimes, even the legitimate version of this file can cause minor system hiccups. High CPU Usage vs-preclean-vs.exe
The file is located outside of a temporary installation folder or an MSDN-related directory.
vs-preclean-vs.exe is a Visual Studio cleanup utility intended to remove intermediate and generated build artifacts to prepare for rebuilds. It is normally safe and legitimate when located in official Visual Studio directories and digitally signed by Microsoft. Investigate unexpected locations, validate signatures, scan for malware, and prefer repairing or reinstalling Visual Studio over deleting the binary. VS_PreClean_vs
In its original context, it is a safe Microsoft file. However, because it is an .exe , it can be targeted by malware.
During an active software update, the file might spike your CPU usage briefly. This is normal. However, if the high utilization persists for hours, the process might be stuck in a loop. Application Errors You should delete the genuine version of this
The file runs every time I start my PC.
When you install or update Visual Studio, the vs-preclean-vs.exe file is executed as part of the installation process. Its main task is to: