Startup app, what is it? - "MicrosoftStartFeedProvider.exe"

Question

Hi,

Recently installed Win11-24H2 on my desktop computer and noticed a startup app I haven't seen before. There are two instances of the exe running alongside a broker. Is it an amped/new version of "StartMenuExperienceHost"? Is it cause for concern?

Startup:

Process:

Path:

C:\Program Files\WindowsApps\Microsoft.StartExperiencesApp_1.1.181.0_x64__8wekyb3d8bbwe\MicrosoftStartFeedProvider\

(With the following items inside:)

App Details:

(Copyrighted, no digital signature)

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Hi, I have turned off any personalization and do not wish to use it. Is it safe to disable this program or it has some other system function?

THX.

Answer 2

Hello Kristoffer Nilsson,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

I understand your question. It (MicrosoftStartFeedProvider) is similar to StartMenuExperienceHost and is related to the content in the Start menu.

Microsoft.StratFeedProvider

• Function: Provides content recommendations and information cards.
• Content Type: Related to personalized recommendations for users, such as news, weather, stock quotes, interest cards, etc.
• Purpose: Generates and pushes personalized information content, which may appear in the search bar, Start menu, or other places.

Microsoft.StratFeedProvider acts more like a content provider, specifically responsible for pushing dynamic content from the background.

StartMenuExperienceHost

• Function: Responsible for displaying and managing the Windows "Start" menu. It is the user interface host process for the Windows Start menu.
• Content: Manages the interface and user interactions of the Start menu itself, including the application list, pinned shortcuts, search box, user accounts, etc.
• Purpose: As the core component of the "Start" menu, it manages the display of the menu, loading of application icons, and interactions with users.

‘StartMenuExperienceHost’ is the core process of the Start menu, directly responsible for the presentation and interaction of the menu interface, while ‘Microsoft.StratFeedProvider’ provides content recommendations for the Start menu, search bar, and taskbar.Feed providers - Windows apps | Microsoft Learn

Best wishes

Leo Z | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Answer 3

Thank you so much for your assistance with for that issue! It did show up on my new version of Win 11.
Your support and dedication to helping me find a solution were greatly appreciated.
I feel much more confident moving forward, and it's thanks to your expertise and patience.
Microsoft is lucky to have such a helpful and knowledgeable team member.
Thanks again!