ASCTray.exe: What is it & How to Fix Common Errors

Many users encountered ASCTray.exe or had problems with it. If you’re not familiar with this file, in today’s guide we’re going to show you all you need to know.

What is ASCTray.exe?

This file is associated with the Advanced SystemCare software from IObit. The application runs in the system tray and it allows you to quickly access software features such as performance monitoring or cleanup tools.

Where is ASCTray.exe located?

The file is located in the Advanced SystemCare installation directory. By default, it should be: C:\Program Files (x86)\IObit\Advanced SystemCare\ASCTray.exe

Is ASCTray.exe a virus?

No, this file isn’t a virus, since it’s associated with IOBit Advanced System Care software. If you’re still concerned, you can scan the file with antivirus software, by doing the following:

1. Go to the installation directory.
2. Right-click the ASCTray.exe and choose Scan with Microsoft Defender.
   
3. Wait for the scan to finish.

Alternatively, you can check the digital signatures:

1. Right-click the file and choose Properties.
   
2. Navigate to the Digital Signatures tab.
   
3. Double-click on available certificates and check their information.
4. If IOBit issues them, it means that the file is legitimate and safe.

What can I do if ASCTray.exe is missing?

1. Press the Windows key + X and choose Apps and features.
   
2. Next, locate IObit Advanced SystemCare, click the three dots next to it, and choose Uninstall.
   
3. Follow the instructions on the screen to remove it.
4. Once removed, install it again.

This will hopefully fix the problems with the software.

How can I fix the ASCTray.exe system error?

1. Perform a clean boot

1. Press Windows key + R and enter msconfig.
    
2. Next, go to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services. Click on Disable all.
   
3. Click on Apply and OK but don’t restart your PC.
4. Open Task Manager. You can use Ctrl + Shift + Esc to do that.
5. Go to the Startup tab and disable all applications.
   
6. Restart your PC.

Once your PC restarts, check if the problem is gone. If so, enable startup services and applications one by one until you manage to pinpoint the cause.

A few users reported that WinPatrol Plus was the issue, so if you’re using it, ensure that it’s not interfering with this file.

2. Temporarily disable your antivirus software

1. Press Windows key + S and type windows security. Choose Windows Security.
   
2. Next, navigate to Virus & threat protection. Select Manage settings.
   
3. Disable Real-time protection.
   
4. Check if the problem is gone.
5. If this method helps, you’ll need to add asctray.exe to the list of exceptions.
6. Turn your antivirus back on again.

3. Remove the software and its files

1. Remove the Advanced SystemCare from your PC.
2. Next, press the Windows key + R and enter %appdata%.
   
3. Next, locate the IOBit folder and delete all files associated with Advanced System Care.

4. Modify the registry

1. Press the Windows key + R and enter regedit.
   
2. Press Ctrl + F and type asctray.exe.
   
3. Delete any values or keys associated with it.
4. Repeat Step 2 until you have removed all mentions of this file.

Keep in mind that modifying the registry can cause problems, so be extra cautious. Only use this solution if you’ve removed the software.

Asctray.exe is a legitimate file associated with Advanced SystemCare, so if you notice it, there’s no reason for concern.

Speaking of which, we recently covered another file related to Advanced System Care, and you can read more about it in our ASCService.exe guide. This isn’t the only unusual exe file you can encounter, and we have an entire guide dedicated to main.exe.