why is there a ping.exe task on startup and is it safe? (windows 7)

[RadioactiveCowDoesWuf]

When i start my pc (windows 7) i see a ping.exe task.
what makes my pc run this task on startup and is it safe?

 

[kanewolf]

If you are a gamer, it could be something that is attempting to find an optimal server -- lowest ping time and most consistent time.

 

[RadioactiveCowDoesWuf]

If you are a gamer, it could be something that is attempting to find an optimal server -- lowest ping time and most consistent time.

does this also apply when i dont open a game?

 

[kanewolf]

If you are a gamer, it could be something that is attempting to find an optimal server -- lowest ping time and most consistent time.

does this also apply when i dont open a game?

Probably. You can look through all the things that run at startup using the msconfig command. You can also check the Windows task scheduler because it can run jobs at login also.