KMS-R@1n.exe: What is it & How to Remove it

This file is a Windows activator and it’s often bundled with malware

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kms-r@1n.exe

You might’ve noticed a KMS-R@1n.exe file on your PC. If you’re not familiar with this file, and you don’t know what it does, this guide will give you all the information you need.

What is KMS-R@1n.exe?

This is an unofficial Windows activator, and it’s used to bypass Microsoft activation service, allowing you to run Windows without having to purchase a license.

Where is KMS-R@1n.exe located?

This file can usually be found in one of the following locations:

C:\Program Files\
C:\Windows\System32\
C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\

Is KMS-R@1n.exe safe?

Generally, Windows activators are malware, or in most cases, they come bundled with malware. To check if this file is malicious, you can scan it by doing the following:

  1. Locate the file, and right-click it.
  2. Choose Scan with Microsoft Defender or use any other antivirus software.
    scan with Microsoft Defender context menu
  3. Look at the scan results.

How do I remove KMS-R@1n.exe?

  1. First, scan your PC with antivirus software, and ensure that you remove this file.
  2. Next, press the Windows key + R and enter regedit.
    Regedit RUN COMMAND
  3. Go to Edit and then Find. Or use the Ctrl + F shortcut.
  4. Enter kms-r@1n.exe in the search field and click on Find Next.
  5. Once you find this file mentioned in your registry, remove it.
  6. Repeat the steps 3-5 until you remove all entries.
  7. Next, press the Windows key + S and enter task scheduler. Open Task Scheduler.
    task scheduler in windows 11
  8. Look for any tasks that mention KMS-R@1n and remove them.

KMS-R@1n.exe isn’t a legitimate file, and it often comes with malware, so it might be best for you to remove it.

This isn’t the only suspicious file you can encounter, and we wrote about KMSSS.exe and KMService.exe in our previous articles, so don’t miss them for more information.

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