Wmpnetk.exe is a common process that is found running when the Windows Task Manager is opened by computer users. The file can be mistaken for a computer virus, however, it is a Microsoft program that is associated with the Windows Media Player. Unlike many other Windows helper programs or applications, if you are not a power user of the Windows Media Player who makes use of network media sharing, the program can be disabled so that it is not using system resources while you are conducting normal computer operations.
What is the Function of Wmpnetk.exe?
Microsoft first introduced network media sharing with Windows Media Player 10. Wmpnetk.exe is the program that is used with both this program and Windows Media Center and allows the user to share music and videos with other computers, compatible mobile devices, and even the Xbox 360. The Windows Media Player or Center uses Wmpnetk.exe as a service process when the user attempts to share media. Unfortunately, there is not a means to share media using the service unless you leave the process running all of the time on your computer.
What is the File Location of Wmpnetk.exe?
The Wmpnetk.exe program is normally located in the following location on computers that have the “C” drive as the primary computer drive:
C:\Program Files\Windows Media Player\wmpnetwk.exe
How Do You Disable Wmpnetk.exe?
If you do not use the media sharing properties of Windows Media Player, then you can disable Wmpnetk.exe without worrying about causing damage to your computer. The steps to disable the process are:
Step 1 – Select the “Start” menu button and enter “services.msc” in the search text field followed by the “Enter” key.
Step 2 – Right click the “Windows Media Player Network Sharing Service” on the local services menu and choose the “Properties” menu option.
Step 3 – Click the “General” menu tab on the properties window and change the “Start-up type” to “Disabled” followed by clicking the “Ok” menu button.
Step 4 – Restart your computer and the wmpnetk.exe process will now be disabled. If you later decide to use the media sharing services provided by Windows Media Player, you can reverse the directions to enable the service on your computer.
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