What Is MicrosoftStartFeedProvider.exe & Why Is It Running?

MicrosoftStartFeedProvider.exe is an executable file developed by Microsoft, associated with the Microsoft Start Feed. This feature provides personalized content such as news, weather updates, and information cards directly within the Windows Start menu and other interface sections.

File Location:

The executable is typically found in the following directory:

C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.StartExperiencesApp_1.1.168.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe\MicrosoftStartFeedProvider\

Note: The exact path may slightly differ depending on your installed version.

Is MicrosoftStartFeedProvider.exe Safe?

MicrosoftStartFeedProvider.exe is generally a legitimate and safe process. However, if you experience unusual behavior, like high CPU usage or system instability, it’s recommended to perform a system scan using Microsoft Defender or a reputable antivirus program.

Should I Disable This Process?

Consider your usage needs:

  • Yes, if you don’t use Microsoft Widgets, News, or related features. Disabling it can free up system resources.
  • No, if you enjoy using these services. Disabling the Widgets feature entirely will also halt this process.
Our Recommendation: This process can strain your system and consume network bandwidth. Disabling it could save resources and improve speed for low-end computers or limited internet data. Keeping it enabled can enhance your experience if you value customized news and content and do not require maximum system efficiency.

How to Disable It?

To disable or remove MicrosoftStartFeedProvider.exe, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + W to open the Widgets board.
  2. Click on Settings positioned at the top right corner.
  3. Select Show or hide feeds from the drop-down menu.
  4. Toggle off the feeds you do not wish to see.
Keep in mind that this only disables the personalized feed section in the Widgets menu. To remove the Widgets section completely, follow our detailed guide here:

Permanently Disable Widgets & News

Alternatively, you can use the following command to remove the widgets pack completely:

winget uninstall "windows web experience pack"

If this command doesn’t work for you, try the following command in PowerShell:

Get-AppxPackage *WebExperience* | Remove-AppxPackage
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Muhammad Zubyan


Muhammad Zubyan is a certified Google IT Support Professional with over 7 years of extensive experience. He has worked on more than 1500 computers, gaining valuable insights that enable him to detect and troubleshoot any complicated root cause of Windows-related issues and errors. In addition to managing Appuals as a Senior Editor, he is currently developing his own Game Optimization program that caters to both gamers and casual users alike.