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How to Remove Microsoft AU Daemon on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Related Errors

If you are noticing errors related to Microsoft AU Daemon on your Windows 11 PC, it might be due to issues with this background process. Microsoft AU Daemon is a tool that helps with automatic updates, but sometimes it can cause problems or use system resources unnecessarily.

Removing or disabling Microsoft AU Daemon can help fix these errors and improve your computer’s performance. However, the process should be done carefully to avoid disrupting essential system functions.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step instructions to remove or disable Microsoft AU Daemon safely on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along.

Let’s get started with some quick notes before jumping into the removal process.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before removing Microsoft AU Daemon, please keep these points in mind:

  • Backup important data: Always create a system restore point or backup your files to avoid accidental data loss.
  • Understand the role: Microsoft AU Daemon helps with Windows updates, so disabling it might affect automatic updates.
  • Check running programs: Close any applications that might be using Microsoft AU Daemon to prevent conflicts during removal.
  • Administrator access: You will need administrator privileges to perform these steps.

Step 1: Identify Microsoft AU Daemon Process

First, confirm that Microsoft AU Daemon is running on your system and causing issues.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  2. Click on the Processes tab.
  3. Look for Microsoft AU Daemon or microsoftaudaemon.exe in the list.
  4. If you find it, note if it is using high CPU or memory, which could indicate a problem.

Knowing this helps you confirm that the daemon is active and potentially problematic.

Step 2: Stop Microsoft AU Daemon from Running

Before removal, it’s important to stop the daemon process to avoid errors.

  1. In Task Manager, right-click on Microsoft AU Daemon or microsoftaudaemon.exe.
  2. Select End task.
  3. This will stop the process temporarily until you restart your computer.

Stopping the process is important as it prevents file lock issues during removal.

Step 3: Remove Microsoft AU Daemon via Control Panel

If Microsoft AU Daemon was installed as part of a program, you can uninstall it like any other software.

  1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, then press Enter to open Programs and Features.
  2. Look through the list for any entries related to Microsoft AU Daemon or suspicious update tools.
  3. If found, click on the program and select Uninstall.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation.

This method is the safest way to remove the daemon without affecting Windows system files.

Step 4: Disable Microsoft AU Daemon from Startup

If the daemon starts automatically when Windows boots, disabling it can prevent errors.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Go to the Startup tab.
  3. Find Microsoft AU Daemon or any related entry.
  4. Right-click it and select Disable.

Disabling startup entries helps keep your PC clean and reduces unnecessary background processes.

Step 5: Delete Microsoft AU Daemon Files Manually

If the above methods don’t work, you can manually delete the files. Be cautious with this step.

  1. Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
  2. Navigate to C:Program Files or C:Program Files (x86).
  3. Look for a folder named Microsoft AU Daemon or similar.
  4. If found, right-click the folder and select Delete.
  5. Next, navigate to C:WindowsSystem32 and search for microsoftaudaemon.exe.
  6. If the file exists, right-click and delete it.

Deleting files manually removes the daemon completely but requires care to avoid deleting essential Windows files.

Alternative Method: Use Windows PowerShell to Remove the Daemon

For advanced users, PowerShell can help remove the daemon more efficiently.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command to check for the daemon service:
Get-Service -Name *AU*Daemon*

If the service appears, stop it by typing:

Stop-Service -Name [ServiceName] -Force

Replace [ServiceName] with the exact service name found.

To remove the service, use:

sc delete [ServiceName]

This method is powerful but should be used only if you understand the commands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Microsoft AU Daemon?

Microsoft AU Daemon is a background process related to Windows automatic updates. It helps keep your system up to date.

Can I safely remove Microsoft AU Daemon?

Yes, but be aware that removing it might stop automatic updates, which are important for security.

Why am I getting errors related to this daemon?

Errors may occur due to corrupted files, conflicts with other software, or malware disguising as the daemon.

Will disabling Microsoft AU Daemon affect Windows updates?

It might. Some updates could fail or be delayed if the daemon is disabled or removed.

How do I know if Microsoft AU Daemon is malware?

If the file is located outside standard system folders or shows suspicious behavior, scan your PC with antivirus software immediately.

When Nothing Works

If you still face issues after trying these methods, consider these final steps:

  • Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter from Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  • Perform a System Restore to revert your PC to a previous working state.
  • Use the SFC (System File Checker) tool by running sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt.
  • Seek help from official Microsoft support or the Microsoft Support website.

Conclusion

Microsoft AU Daemon plays an important role in managing updates but can sometimes cause errors or performance issues on Windows 11. By following this step-by-step guide, you can safely identify, stop, disable, or remove the daemon from your system.

Always proceed carefully, especially when deleting files manually or using advanced tools like PowerShell. Don’t forget to back up your data and understand the impact on your system’s update process.

If problems persist, use the troubleshooting tools provided by Windows or consult official support channels for help. With patience and care, you can fix Microsoft AU Daemon errors and enjoy a smoother Windows experience.

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