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What is Charmap.exe & How to Properly Use It

This process is used to check characters on transcripts

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Charmap.exe is asystem process that runs in the background. It carries out some important activities and, thus, is important to the running of your PC.

If you have been wondering what this file does, this detailed guide will take you through everything you need to know.

What is charmap.exe?

Charmap.exe is an executable file that comes with your Windows PC by default. This file, also known asCharacter Map, is used by fonts on your PC.

It is an important system file and should not be disabled for any reason. This file allows you to use Windows, DOS, and Unicode fonts on your PC.

Also, you can use the charmap.exe to check the characters on any installed typescript. What’s more, it can be used to verify the Alt Code (Keyboard input) used to input those typescripts.

Lastly, you can add the characters on the transcripts to the clipboard. This saves you from the stress of typing them manually.

Is charmap.exe a virus?

The charmap.exe file is a legit Windows process located in your system folder. Though it cannot be ruled out that viruses can disguise the process and cause issues on your PC, it is usually safe.

To know if this process is legit, it should be in the location below:C:/Windows/System32

If you find it in any other location, it is likely a virus. Also, if you notice some unusual behavior like high CPU or disk usage,perform a full malware scanimmediately.

How can I use the charmap.exe process?

1. Use the Character Map

The easiest way to use the charmap.exe process is to use it directly to copy and paste the special character you need.

2. Using Unicode

If you want to know the Unicode of most special characters by heart, you can use charmap.exe to determine the value. Then, you can type it yourself in your document.

How to fix common charmap.exe errors?

Charmap.exe is a system process and can be affected if your PC is outdated. So, if you are experiencing issues with it, ensure your operating system is updated.

Viruses can sometimes pose as the charmap.exe process to use your PC resources. Running a full malware scan should help you eliminate them.

Another option is to use a no-nonsense antivirus in ESET NOD32 for this task. This will tool will get rid of even the most stubborn virus before it can cause issues.

It might sometimes be to trace the cause of the charmap.exe issue. Your last resort here is to perform a system restore.

The charmap.exe is a pretty important system file. It is pretty safe and should not be deleted under any circumstance. We have also discussed how you can take advantage of the process.

So, you essentially have everything you need as regards this process. In the same vein, if you are wondering what thecimmanifest.exe process is, check our detailed guide to know what it is about.

Feel free to share your experience with this process with us in the comments below.

What is Charmap.exe & How to Properly Use It#

What is charmap.exe?#

Is charmap.exe a virus?#

How can I use the charmap.exe process?#

1. Use the Character Map#

2. Using Unicode#

How to fix common charmap.exe errors?#