HP Inc. - SoftwareComponent

[Phil1793]

I performed a clean install of Windows (downloaded from Microsoft) and everything is running great.

Windows update runs then out of nowhere "HP Inc. - SoftwareComponent" downloaded automatically.

I was unable to stop it. 

I now see these services runnning. 

AppHelperCap.

BridgeCommunication.

DiagsCap.

NetworkCap.

SysInfoCap.
What are these background services!?

When I questioned the AI Chat, the reply was "It is generally recommended to keep it installed to maintain optimal performance and compatibility..."

This comment is designed to discourage removal.

This software runs in the background collecting personal data.

There is no transparency and most importantly, there is NO CONSENT.

What do I do?

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Phil1793 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

It’s understandable to be concerned about software installing automatically without explicit consent. 

The HP Inc. - SoftwareComponent package includes background services like AppHelperCap, BridgeCommunication, DiagsCap, NetworkCap, and SysInfoCap, which are part of HP’s system optimization and diagnostic tools.

 

What These Services Do

• BridgeCommunication: Part of HP JumpStart, used for system updates and communication between HP software.
• DiagsCap & SysInfoCap: Related to HP diagnostics and system monitoring.
• NetworkCap: Handle network-related optimizations or telemetry.
• AppHelperCap: Assists with HP software integration.

What You Can Do

Disable or Remove HP SoftwareComponent

• Open Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.
• Locate HP SoftwareComponent and uninstall it if possible.

Disable Background Services

• Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
• Locate the services mentioned above, right-click, and select Disable or Stop.

If you suspect data collection, reviewing HP’s privacy policy  for more clarity. Let me know if you need further assistance! 🚀

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye