What is pctspk.exe?

pctspk.exe is an executable file associated with the software pctvoice MFC developed by PCtel. This software is primarily used for managing and controlling modem operations. The pctspk.exe file is a component of this software and is responsible for controlling the speakerphone functionality of the modem.

The pctspk.exe file is necessary for the proper functioning of the pctvoice MFC software. If you are using a PCtel modem and rely on its speakerphone feature, you should not remove this file. If you do not use these features or if you find that the pctspk.exe file is causing issues with your system, such as slowing down your computer or causing software conflicts, you may consider removing it.

While pctspk.exe is a legitimate file, cybercriminals often disguise malware as legitimate files. If you find a pctspk.exe file in an unusual location on your system, it may be a sign of a virus or malware. In such cases, it is recommended to run a full system scan with a reliable antivirus software to ensure your system's safety.

Click to Run a Free Scan for pctspk.exe related errors

Since 2005, file.net has researched facts about Windows processes and files, analyzed user experiences, and examined files using its own analysis tools. Around 10,000 users rely on it every day.

Pctspk.exe file information

Windows Task Manager with pctspk — Pctspk.exe process in Windows Task Manager

The process known as pctvoice MFC Application belongs to software pctvoice Application or PCTEL Speaker Phone by PCtel (www.pctel.com).

Description: Pctspk.exe is an important part of Windows, but often causes problems. The pctspk.exe file is located in the C:\Windows\System32 folder. Known file sizes on Windows 10/11/7 are 86,016 bytes (60% of all occurrences), 163,840 bytes, 176,128 bytes or 167,936 bytes.
The program has no visible window. It is a trustworthy file from Microsoft. Pctspk.exe is able to record keyboard and mouse inputs. Therefore the technical security rating is 12% dangerous, however you should also read the user reviews.

Recommended: Identify pctspk.exe related errors

If pctspk.exe is located in a subfolder of C:\Windows, the security rating is 52% dangerous. The file size is 68,096 bytes. The pctspk.exe file is not a Windows system file. The pctspk.exe file is located in the Windows folder, but it is not a Windows core file. The program is not visible. Pctspk.exe is able to record keyboard and mouse inputs.

External information from Paul Collins:

"pctspk" can run at start up. Used for modems based upon PC-TEL chipsets. Normally used for some Voice and Speakerphone functions and also for some Power management options. If you remove it you may not be able to use any of those functions

Important: Some malware disguises itself as pctspk.exe, particularly when not located in the C:\Windows\System32 folder. Therefore, you should check the pctspk.exe process on your PC to see if it is a threat. We recommend Security Task Manager for verifying your computer's security. This was one of the Top Download Picks of The Washington Post and PC World.

Score

User Comments

this was on my mother's computer just a couple days ago. first it slowed down her desktop n then today it just started dialing her modem every few minutes. i made sure there were no other programs running that would connect to the internet. the random redialing stopped once i ended the process.
Someduder

Using 80-90% CPU on an old Compaq. Renamed file "pctspkOLD", rebooted, CPU usage now normal. Owner recently left dialup for cable, so maybe it was polling nonstop for dialtone, who knows?
KDC

Dell Dimension 3000, Mem Progs show high usuage of memory
Stu_Pitt_Mohron

'blocked' microsof updating by using 99%, killed it, updating startede en ended swell
thyvon topspot

Unreal Tournament 2004 (UT2K4) game file to allow voice recognition
sean (further information)

it ran my cpu up 90% slowing me down to a halt...i deleted it with no issues.
fallen angel

Don't know much about this, except that it suddenly appeared, started slowing my computer by using too many resources and isn't needed for anything used by my PC. I also have a DELL Laptop.
TroniX

One day it began using 99% CPU on DELL Precision, guessing it runs at higher priority because my app needing 90% got 1%. End Process resolved issue this time.
dwb

More comments can be found here:
(further information)

Summary: Average user rating of pctspk.exe: based on 82 votes with 9 user comments. 35 users think pctspk.exe is essential for Windows or an installed application. 6 users think it's probably harmless. 20 users think it's neither essential nor dangerous. 7 users suspect danger. 14 users think pctspk.exe is dangerous and recommend removing it. 9 users don't grade pctspk.exe ("not sure about it").

Best practices for resolving pctspk issues

A clean and tidy computer is the key requirement for avoiding problems with pctspk. This means running a scan for malware, cleaning your hard drive using 1cleanmgr and 2sfc /scannow, 3uninstalling programs that you no longer need, checking for Autostart programs (using 4msconfig) and enabling Windows' 5Automatic Update. Always remember to perform periodic backups, or at least to set restore points.

Should you experience an actual problem, try to recall the last thing you did, or the last thing you installed before the problem appeared for the first time. Use the 6resmon command to identify the processes that are causing your problem. Even for serious problems, rather than reinstalling Windows, you are better off repairing of your installation or executing the 7DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth command. This allows you to repair the operating system without losing data.

To get your computer running as fast as it did on day one, you can 8reset your PC. Your personal files will remain intact, but any programs you installed will need to be reinstalled.

To help you analyze the pctspk.exe process on your computer, the following programs have proven to be helpful: ASecurity Task Manager displays all running Windows tasks, including embedded hidden processes, such as keyboard and browser monitoring or Autostart entries. A unique security risk rating indicates the likelihood of the process being potential spyware, malware or a Trojan. A good Bantivirus software detects and removes sleeping spyware, adware, Trojans, keyloggers, malware and trackers from your hard drive.

Other processes

msdn.exe uagqecsvc.exe avbugreport.exe pctspk.exe driverpackassistant.exe iolosstray.exe ptumlcmsvc.exe code.exe bitmeterwebservice.exe aces.exe ogmmon.exe [all]

	Do you have additional information?
What do you know about pctspk.exe:
How would you rate it:
Link for more info:
Your Name: