iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
If Microsoft Defender reports Trojan:Win64/DisguisedXMRigMiner, treat the alert as a malware incident, not as proof that the genuine Edge browser is infected. On a personal Windows PC, update Defender protection intelligence, run a full scan, and follow the quarantine or removal result shown in Windows Security. On a server or managed endpoint, isolate the device when appropriate and begin incident-response checks for persistence, accounts, network activity, and vulnerable software.
What “XMRig disguised as Microsoft Edge” means
XMRig is software for mining the Monero cryptocurrency. The XMRig project itself is not automatically malicious: administrators can run mining software deliberately. It becomes a security problem when it is installed without permission, hidden inside another program, or deployed after an intrusion. Microsoft classifies unauthorized or trojanized miners according to the sample’s behavior and distribution.
Microsoft Security Intelligence has a named detection, Trojan:Win64/DisguisedXMRigMiner. Its threat entry was published on November 3, 2021, and updated on December 23, 2021. The entry says: “Microsoft Defender Antivirus detects and removes this threat.” It associates that particular named threat with prior exploitation of CVE-2021-44228 (Log4Shell) in Apache Log4j 2. That association describes the historical threat entry; it does not mean every XMRig infection came through Log4Shell.
A separate Microsoft Security Intelligence entry for Trojan:Win64/XMRig!AMTB, published and updated April 28, 2026, lists possible effects such as slow performance, modified files, changed desktop settings, freezing, and crashes. The entry does not provide a sample-specific Edge executable path, hash, signature, or process tree. Consequently, the words “Edge” or “XMRig” in a process label are not, by themselves, a reliable identification method.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Turbo Fan:CAGIWIRU Electric Air Duster have reached speed up to 130000RPM,Can efficient remove dust and debris.With LED light and Three Adjustable Speed to meet with different cleaning tasks.
- With Attached USB C Fasting Charging cable.Charing 3 hours,Enjoy up to 240 minutes of use on the lowest setting, For third speed can use for 25mins.with four charging options to meet with your needs.
- Wide Application: attached 5 different nozzles,making it suitable for a variety of scenes, such as car,pet, pc, keyboards, and other electronic devices. It also serves for office and home clean duster.
- Handy Design & Portable:Cordless air duster electric nozzle is Light weight and small size, design and comfortable to hold and space saving, convenient to carry around. You can put it in your room or inside the car without taking up space.
- Economical &Reusable: Built durable materials with a long-lasting battery,our CAGIWIRU air duster it's a sustainable alternative to disposable air cans.
How do I know if XMRig is disguised as Microsoft Edge?
Start with the Defender detection, not the process name
Open Windows Security and select Virus & threat protection. In Protection history, open the alert and record:
- the exact detection name;
- the file or other resource identified;
- whether the item was active, blocked, quarantined, or removed; and
- any remediation status or action still requiring your approval.
An alert that specifically names Trojan:Win64/DisguisedXMRigMiner is materially stronger evidence than a busy process whose name resembles Edge. If your security product is managed by an organization, use its corresponding endpoint record rather than relying only on the local Windows Security history.
Use CPU activity as a clue, not a verdict
A miner may consume substantial processor resources, but high CPU use can also result from a browser tab, video playback, an update, an extension, or another legitimate workload. Task Manager can show which process is consuming resources, yet resource use alone cannot establish that the process is malicious. Do not terminate or delete a file merely because its name contains “Edge,” “msedge,” or “XMRig.”
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Be cautious about “fake Edge” claims
The Microsoft pages cited here do not publish a universal test for an Edge-disguised sample. They do not establish one path, hash, or process tree that applies to every variant. Confirm the detection through Defender or another qualified incident responder, and preserve the alert details before taking investigative action. A legitimate Edge process being busy is not proof that Edge itself has been replaced.
Why is Microsoft Edge using so much CPU?
Legitimate browser work
Multiple tabs, video, browser extensions, web applications, synchronization, and updates can all raise Edge’s CPU use temporarily. A single high-usage observation is therefore not evidence of a miner.
A web-page mining script
Microsoft has also described coin-mining code running inside web pages. Closing the suspicious tab can stop that page’s browser activity, but it does not prove that an independently installed miner has been removed. If CPU use returns only when a particular site or tab is open, record the site, close the tab, and run a security scan rather than assuming the installed browser is infected.
An installed miner or trojan
Persistent high usage across reboots, unexplained slowdowns, freezing, crashes, new or modified files, or desktop-setting changes justify a full malware scan. These symptoms are nonspecific: they indicate that you should investigate, not that XMRig is definitely present.
Rank #2
- Screen Cleaner is Your Screen’s New Bestfriend! - EVEO is proud to present a screen cleaner that’s perfectly suited for your TV. Meet your new screen cleaner, computer screen cleaner, laptop cleaner, iPad cleaner, Macbook,tv cleaner or any other electronic device. Our screen cleaner spray and wipe along with the included plush microfiber cloth, easily removes dust, fingerprints & other smudges on the screen’s surface. Clean effectively for a streak-free screen
- Gentle on your Screens - Our screen cleaner spray and wipes is compatible to be used even for the most sensitive LCD, LED, CRT, and OLED screens in proper use. Be at ease knowing that this product is compatible with all the major brands: LG, SONY, Samsung, Sharp, iPad, iPhone, Android screens, Kindle, PC monitors - we’ve got you covered! Can be used as LCD screen cleaner, tv cleaner, smart tv screen cleaner, and more
- Premium Super Soft Plush Microfiber Cloth - Included in this efficient screen cleaning kit. This screen cleaner spray and wipe has our signature plush microfiber cloth specially designed to comply with screens and monitors and leave them streak-free. Has been shown to effectively absorbs stubborn stains, zero streaks, and no fiber shedding. Always use this together with our screen cleaner for the best results
- Easy-to-Use Screen Cleaner Kit + microfiber cleaning cloth - The EVEO Screen Cleaning Kit will easily be your new favorite tool when it comes to taking care of the things you love most, quick and easy solution for a streak-free screen. Simply screw on the sprayer gun on the screen cleaner bottle. Spray the cleaning liquid onto the microfiber cloth, then wipe the screen until desired cleanliness & shine is achieved.
- Quality Screen Care Kit Worth Purchasing - Enjoy a convenient Screen Cleaner anytime, anywhere you need it. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We stand behind the quality of our products and that’s why, you shouldn’t be worrying at all. We manufacture the Best Screen Cleaner. and can be used for laptop cleaning kit, laptop screen cleaner, tv screen cleaner for smart tv. MacBook screen cleaner, monitor cleaner or screen cleaner spray for electronic devices with microfiber cleaning cloth
What should I record before removing the alert?
Write down the detection name, timestamp, affected file or resource, current action, and whether the alert has appeared more than once. If the device is managed, note the hostname, logged-in account, and any related endpoint alert identifier. Screenshots or an exported security record can help an administrator correlate activity across machines. Avoid opening or running the flagged file just to inspect it, and do not upload confidential files to an unapproved scanner.
Preserving these details matters because a removal action can change the evidence. If the same item returns, the original path and detection name help distinguish a recurring download from persistence already present on the device. A single clean scan also cannot explain a process that keeps reappearing or suspicious account activity.
How do I remove XMRig malware from Windows?
Personal Windows PC: the supported cleanup path
- Open Windows Security. Select Virus & threat protection.
- Update protection intelligence. Under Virus & threat protection updates, choose Check for updates and allow the update to finish. Microsoft specifically advises updated antimalware definitions when cloud-delivered protection is unavailable.
- Run a full scan. Choose Scan options, select Full scan, and start it. A full scan checks the system more broadly than a quick scan and may take considerable time on a large drive.
- Review the result. Return to Protection history and open each relevant item. Check the detection name, affected file or resource, and whether remediation completed.
- Accept the security product’s action. If Defender offers Quarantine or Remove, use that documented action. Do not manually delete a file before recording the alert or terminate a process solely because its displayed name resembles Edge.
- Restart if Windows requests it. After the restart, check Protection history again and run another scan if Defender reports that remediation was incomplete or that a remnant remains.
Microsoft warns that malware remediation can leave remnant files or system changes. A successful removal message is important, but it does not eliminate the need to read the remediation status and investigate recurring detections.
If cloud-delivered protection is unavailable
Update Defender’s antimalware definitions manually through Windows Security, then run the full scan described above. Microsoft’s guidance for the named threat is to use updated definitions and a full scan when cloud-delivered protection cannot be used. Do not interpret an unavailable cloud service as proof that the machine is clean.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
When a scan finds nothing
A clean scan does not validate a process name or explain every performance problem. Record the time, symptoms, and any recurring alert, install, or account activity. Check whether the high usage occurs only in a particular web page, after a recent software installation, or continuously across restarts. If the alert returns, the file is recreated, or the device shows signs of account or network compromise, obtain help from a qualified incident responder instead of repeatedly deleting files by hand.
Do not use a manual deletion shortcut
Deleting a suspicious executable from a folder, stopping a similarly named process, or changing startup settings without understanding the alert can destroy useful evidence and leave the actual persistence mechanism intact. Microsoft’s published guidance confirms automatic Defender remediation and full-scan steps, but it does not provide one universal hand-cleaning sequence for every XMRig variant. Use the security product’s quarantine or removal workflow and escalate when it cannot complete.
How personal-PC cleanup differs from incident response
| Situation | Primary action | Additional requirement |
|---|---|---|
| One personal Windows PC, one alert | Update protection intelligence, run a full scan, and review Protection history | Repeat the review after restart and investigate recurring detections |
| Managed workstation | Follow the organization’s endpoint workflow | Preserve the alert, coordinate containment, and review the user account |
| Server or suspected Log4j exploitation | Contain and investigate as an incident | Examine persistence, network indicators, privileged accounts, and the vulnerable application; apply current vendor updates |
The difference is scope. A home scan is aimed at one device, while an enterprise response must determine whether other hosts, credentials, or applications were affected. Do not reconnect an isolated business device or restore a server solely because one local scan reports removal.
Rank #3
- 【Large size】：Measuring 800 x 300 mm/ 31. 5×12 inches, which is wider and taller than others. Large mouse pad can perfectly fit your keyboard and mouse of any size, and there is also ample space for peripherals such as phones, tablets, etc.
- 【LED backlight mouse pad】：Blade Hawks RGB mouse pad provides 7 static modes and 7 dynamic modes will give you the options you are looking for. Power-off memory function remembers the last lighting mode you selected. The super glow fiber Chroma will give you a colorful gaming setup that you want.
- 【Anti-slip rubber base】：Made from Natural rubber, this gaming mousepad will firmly grip your desktop, allowing you to enjoy the ultimate precision in the games you are most passionate about. It also comes with a texture that enhances this ability even further.
- 【Smooth and waterproof surface】: Micro-textured cloth surface, for extremely precise mouse control and a smooth movement. When liquid splashes on the gaming mouse pad, it forms water droplets and slides down. Will not delay your work or gameplay.
- 【Plug and play】: This mouse and keyboard pad is powered by USB, plug and play, no driver required. One button control light modes. Press one time to change the lighting mode, press twice to change the brightness, press and hold about 3 seconds turn ON/OFF.
What to do on a server or managed endpoint
A detection on a business device has a wider impact than a single home-PC cleanup. Follow your organization’s incident-response procedure and coordinate with the security team.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match- Contain the device when appropriate. Isolate a potentially compromised server or endpoint according to your response plan, while considering the service and evidence that must be preserved.
- Investigate persistence. Review unusual processes, spawned processes, scheduled or startup activity, elevated-user behavior, and related endpoint alerts.
- Review accounts. Look for suspicious privileged-account activity. Reset credentials when the investigation indicates that accounts may have been exposed.
- Examine network indicators. Use available endpoint and network records to identify related hosts or outbound activity, and block relevant indicators where your controls support it.
- Patch the entry point. Identify the application that was exposed and apply the vendor’s current security update for that exact product and version.
Microsoft’s historical guidance for the Log4Shell-associated detection discusses checking for Apache/Log4j and updating Log4j to version 2.17.0 or applying the mitigation stated in that 2021 guidance. That number belongs to the 2021 incident context. It is not a timeless patch prescription for every Log4j deployment; use the current vendor security update appropriate to the installed application and version.
Can Windows Defender remove XMRig?
Yes, Microsoft states that Defender Antivirus detects and removes the named Trojan:Win64/DisguisedXMRigMiner threat. The practical qualification is that remediation can leave remnants or system changes, and detection coverage depends on current protection intelligence and the particular sample. Keep protection enabled, update definitions, run a full scan, and verify the result in Protection history rather than assuming that seeing a detection automatically means every related artifact has disappeared.
Malware, potentially unwanted application, or legitimate miner?
Trojanized miner
A miner bundled with another program, delivered after an intrusion, or installed without the owner’s permission is treated as malicious when its behavior and delivery meet malware criteria. The DisguisedXMRigMiner name is an example of a trojanized-miner detection.
Potentially unwanted application (PUA)
Microsoft also documents coin miners that may be classified as potentially unwanted applications. PUA protection can block or warn about software that is not necessarily a virus but is unwanted because of deceptive installation, excessive resource use, or other behavior. Microsoft distinguishes PUA coin miners from trojanized miners classified as malware, so PUA blocking supplements rather than replaces malware detection.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesAuthorized mining software
An administrator may intentionally deploy XMRig for legitimate research or mining. In that case, an alert still needs to be verified against the organization’s authorization and software inventory. Do not whitelist a detection merely because the program name is familiar; confirm ownership, source, configuration, and purpose with the responsible administrator.
Reduce the chance of another miner infection
Keep browser and reputation protections enabled
In Edge, Microsoft Defender SmartScreen and the setting to block potentially unwanted apps can help prevent dangerous downloads and associated URLs. Labels and availability can vary by Windows edition, browser version, and organizational management. In Edge, review Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Security and keep Microsoft Defender SmartScreen enabled unless an administrator has a documented reason to change it.
Rank #4
- 【Softer and More Comfortable】Vaydeer wrist rest has unique diamond pattern, which is the combination of softness and aesthetics. The materials of wrist rest are improved into higher quality memory foam and covered with silky smooth lycra. The computer wrist rest makes you as comfortable and cushiony as like rest your wrists on clouds.
- 【Ergonomic Wrist Saver】The wrist rests for keyboard and mouse comes with a 17.32×3.15×0.83 inch keyboard wrist pad and a 5.94×3.15×0.83 inch mouse wrist support. Based on ergonomic design, the unique concave shape is the perfect fit for your wrist joints. The wrist rest pad fits most computer keyboards and laptops, improve hand and wrist posture, release your wrist and arm stress.
- 【Non-Slip Rubber Bottom】Featuring an anti-skid silicone base on the bottom, this wrist keyboard support stays firmly in place on your desk, preventing the padding from sliding around, ensuring stable and consistent wrist support during extended computer sessions.
- 【Better Experience & Pain Relief】Our keyboard arm rest is beneficial to alleviate the soreness caused by direct contact and friction between your arm and a hard desk surface, reducing the risk of wrist fatigue or carpal tunnel. The soft texture of memory foam can evenly distribute the pressure around your wrists and provide good support with just enough give.
- 【Helpful in Multiple Scenarios】Whether you're working, studying, writing, typing, gaming, this keyboard and mouse rest combo is an essential accessory to add comfort and support to your hands and wrists. It’s also a great gift for men, women, family, friend, coworker, gamer, teacher, etc.
Enable Defender PUA blocking
On supported Windows installations, open Windows Security > App & browser control > Reputation-based protection and review Potentially unwanted app blocking. Management policies may control these options, and the exact controls can differ by platform. PUA blocking is a preventive layer; it does not replace current malware definitions, full scans, or incident response.
Patch exposed applications
Apply current security updates to internet-facing applications, frameworks, and operating systems. If an investigation identifies a vulnerable Log4j application, patch that application according to its vendor’s current instructions rather than relying on a historical minimum version from 2021.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Limit privilege and monitor unexpected changes
Use ordinary user accounts for routine work, restrict administrative access, and monitor unexplained new files, settings changes, processes, and account activity. These controls reduce the damage a miner can cause and make an intrusion easier to investigate.
Skip unnecessary paid cleaners
Microsoft’s documented workflow relies on built-in Defender, current protection intelligence, scanning, and incident response. A paid cleaner, physical gadget, or unrelated repair product is not required to identify this detection and can add cost without addressing persistence or the vulnerable entry point. Use an approved security or response service only when the device’s risk or organizational policy calls for expert help.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Historical scale of coin-mining threats
Microsoft’s March 13, 2018 Security Blog described the following historical measurements. They are not current prevalence figures and are not specific to XMRig disguised as Edge.
| Measurement | Figure | Scope and date |
|---|---|---|
| Computers encountering coin-mining malware | 644,000 unique computers per month on average | September 2017 through January 2018; broad Microsoft observation, not an Edge-specific rate |
| Enterprise machines encountering coin miners | More than 1,800 | January 2018 among Windows enterprise customers with PUA protection enabled |
| Coin miners among blocked PUAs | About 2% | September 2017 |
| Coin miners among blocked PUAs | About 6% | January 2018 |
No statistic in the cited Microsoft material measures how often XMRig is specifically disguised as Microsoft Edge.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick decision checklist
- Only Edge is busy: check tabs and extensions, then scan if the behavior persists or other symptoms appear.
- Defender names DisguisedXMRigMiner: update protection intelligence, run a full scan, and follow the quarantine or removal result.
- The file returns after removal: preserve the alert, investigate persistence, and seek qualified incident-response help.
- The device is a server or managed endpoint: follow the organization’s containment and account-review process rather than treating it as a routine browser slowdown.
- Log4j is involved: identify the affected application and apply its current vendor security update; do not reuse the 2021 version number as a universal rule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every high-CPU Edge process an XMRig miner?
No. Tabs, video, extensions, web applications, synchronization, and updates can all use CPU. High usage is a clue; confirm the actual Defender detection, file or resource, and remediation status.
Best Value
- 【No Drill Mounted】Cable management tray can be assembled in as little as 3 minutes or less-simply. Side clips easily clampe the edge of desk, pass through the holes on the sides, and secure excess cables with baskets. Desk cable management supports inward or outward installation to meet your needs in different scenarios, and provides you with great convenience when collecting and organizing wires.
- 【Rubber Pad Protects Desk】Wire organizer under desk built-in soft rubber pads on the clamp protect your desk from scratches, so you will not damage your furniture or office.
- 【Sturdy and Beautiful】Cord management under desk is made of high-quality carbon steel and holds about 15 lbs. The wire basket has 2 holes on each side of the tray to enable your cables to pass freely. Cable baskets are suitable for desk thickness use from 0.4" to 2.4".
- 【Space Saving & Keep Organized】Desk cable management tray holds all your power cords, outlet strips, USB hubs and computer transformers hidden from your feet, and the data cables will not enter the vacuum cleaner to keep your desk clean and tidy. Desk wire organizer is also suitable for use in the kitchen and outdoors.
- 【Reduce Safety Risks】Cable tray under desk keeps all plugs away from your kids, no more worry about tripping. Using 2 holes wire tray saves extra space, helps you easily cabling and wire protection. The mesh design is not easy to accumulate dust, but avoids safety accidents caused by messy wires.
How do I confirm a disguised XMRig alert?
Open Windows Security, go to Virus & threat protection and Protection history, and record the exact detection name and affected resource. Trojan:Win64/DisguisedXMRigMiner is stronger evidence than a process name that merely resembles Edge.
Can I delete a file called msedge.exe?
Do not delete or terminate it solely because of its name. Record the alert first and use Defender’s quarantine or removal action. Microsoft does not publish one universal path or hash for every Edge-disguised variant.
What if Defender says the threat was removed but CPU use remains high?
Check whether the resource use belongs to a tab, extension, update, or another process. Review Protection history for remnants or recurring detections, restart if requested, and escalate if the file returns or account and network activity looks suspicious.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Does closing a tab remove a coin miner?
It may stop mining code running in that web page, but it does not prove that an installed miner was removed. Run a security scan if symptoms persist or other alerts appear.
Should I use a paid malware cleaner?
It is not required by Microsoft’s documented workflow. Start with updated Defender protection intelligence and a full scan; use an approved specialist only when remediation fails or the device needs incident-response assistance.
What should a business do after this detection?
Follow the incident-response plan, isolate the device when appropriate, review persistence and privileged accounts, examine network indicators, and patch the exposed application. A server detection should not be handled as an ordinary browser slowdown.
Does DisguisedXMRigMiner always mean Log4Shell?
No. Microsoft associated that specific 2021 threat entry with prior exploitation of CVE-2021-44228 in Apache Log4j 2. Other XMRig infections can have different delivery methods, so investigate the actual device and application.
The Bottom Line
A busy Edge process is not proof of a miner. Verify the exact Defender alert, update protection intelligence, run a full scan, and follow the documented quarantine or removal result. If the detection recurs, affects a server or managed endpoint, or points to Log4j exploitation, preserve evidence and escalate for containment, account review, and current application patching.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
