Resolved: A C:ProgramDataACCApiapihost.exe Prompt Pops up

If you have encountered a blank prompt with the name C:ProgramDataACCApiapihost.exe and it comes up every 30 seconds to 1 minute, you can find the typical triggers and feasible solutions in this NewsPivot post, which are provided below for you to try the most likely fixes first.

Windows C:\ProgramData\ACCApi\apihot.exe pops up every 30 seconds to 1 minute. What can I do about it?windows10forums.com

What Is C:ProgramDataACCApiapihost.exe

The ProgramData folder is a hidden system file located in the C drive and used to store application data for the Windows operating system. It encompasses cache, application data, and configuration files. Apihost.exe is one file located in this folder as well.

Since the ProgramData folder is accessible to everyone, the apihost.exe file is vulnerable to corruption. When your computer keeps popping up a blank Command Prompt window called C:\ProgramData\ACCApi\apihost.exe, it indicates the apihost.exe process is running continually in the background.

Reasons Why C:ProgramDataACCApiapihost.exe Pops up

Various causes are responsible for this issue:

1. Legitimate Task: If legitimate software is allowed to use apihost.exe to run background tasks, the Command Prompt window will pop up repeatedly.
2. Malicious Program: Check if potentially malicious programs exist on your PC that may disrupt the apihost.exe file without knowledge.
3. Startup Entries or Scheduled Tasks: There may be scheduled tasks or startup entries set to automatically run this executable file.

Learn more: CefSharp.BrowserSubprocess.exe: What Is It & Should I Remove It?

4 Solutions to Remove C:ProgramDataACCApiapihost.exe

Unfortunately, the empty Command Prompt window doesn’t explain how you can fix the issue. The blank window will interrupt your workflow by popping up every 30 seconds or so, preventing you from using the computer. It is annoying and frustrating. If you need help to remove C:\ProgramData\ACCApi\apihost.exe, follow the guide below to resolve it.

Workaround 1: Scan Malicious Program

A malicious program will spread and self-replicate on computers without the user’s awareness to prevent the computer from working. For instance, malware can cause the apihost.exe file to run repeatedly in the background. In this case, to stop the C:\ProgramData\AACApi\apihost.exe prompt, you can scan your PC to find out and remove the malicious program.

Step 1: Press the Win + I key combination to launch Settings and select the Update & Security option to continue.

Step 2: In the following window, choose the Windows Security option in the left panel and select Virus &threat protection in the right pane.

Step 3: In the pop-up window, click Scan options under the Current Threat option.

Step 4: Check the Microsoft Defender Offline Scan option and click Scan Now.

Workaround 2: Use Autoruns for Windows

Autoruns is a utility that provides comprehensive knowledge of the auto-starting locations of any startup monitor and displays which programs are configured to run automatically. You can use Autoruns to identify the startup entry of the apihost.exe file. Now, we will give you detailed instructions on downloading and using Autoruns for Windows.

Step 1: Download and install Autoruns from the official Microsoft website.

Step 2: Unzip Autoruns.exe or Autoruns64.exe to match the type of your Windows.

Step 3: Right-click on the Autoruns icon and select Run as administrator.

Step 4: Type apihost.exe in the Quick Filter search box and press Enter.

Step 5: Right-click on relevant entries and choose Delete.

After finishing the above steps, restart your computer and check whether the issue is resolved.

Workaround 3: Delete apihost.exe File

If you receive an error message “Failed to delete apihost.exe.Ink”, you can remove the apihost.exe file manually. Here are detailed steps for you to follow.

Step 1: Click the File Explorer icon on the taskbar.

Step 2: Type shell:startup in the address bar and press Enter.

Step 3: Remove the apihost.exe entries.

Step 4: Next, navigate to the C:\ProgramData directory and delete the ACCApi folder.

Step 5: Double-click Recycle Bin, right-click the blank space, and choose Empty the Recycle Bin.

After completing the steps, restart your computer.

Workaround 4: Remove Scheduled Tasks

Scheduled tasks will be executed based on a defined schedule with no dependencies. Therefore, if you inadvertently set a scheduled task for the apihost.exe file, the program will run in accordance with the settled task. To fix it, you can check and remove the scheduled task.

Step 1: Click the small magnifying glass icon on the taskbar, type Task Scheduler in the box, and select the relevant result.

Step 2: In the pop-up interface, choose Task Scheduler Library in the left column.

Step 3: Find the tasks about ACCApi or apihost.exe, right-click the task, and choose Delete.

Bottom Line

Sometimes, the constant popup window of C:ProgramDataACCApiapihost.exe affects your computing experience. The issue is triggered by various causes, but, fortunately, you can work with the methods explained in this post to work it out.