Restore V3.17.0.0.exe is a 32-bit Windows executable file that has been identified by cybersecurity analysis platforms, such as Joe Sandbox , as exhibiting suspicious behaviors
. While its specific legitimate purpose is not well-documented in standard software repositories, its technical characteristics and behavior during sandboxed execution provide insight into its function and potential risks. Technical Profile and Execution
Technically, the file is a 32-bit Portable Executable (PE) image. It includes modern Windows security flags such as Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR) NX (No-eXecute)
compatibility. However, analysis reports indicate several "red flag" behaviors commonly associated with malware or highly invasive installers: Evasive Maneuvers
: The program has been observed using Windows timers to delay its execution, a common tactic to bypass automated sandbox detection. System Policy Access
: During execution, the file attempts to read software policies from the Windows Registry, specifically within the Safer\CodeIdentifiers Process Manipulation : Sandboxed reports from
show it triggering PowerShell commands that hide the copyright banner and interactive prompts, effectively running scripts in the background without user visibility. Ambiguity and Risk
The name "Restore" combined with a version number like "V3.17.0.0" often mimics legitimate system utilities, such as USB repair tools or backup software. However, security engines have classified it with labels like sus22.evad.winEXE
, suggesting it is an evasive executable. It is also noted that the internal file name in the version metadata often differs from the actual file name, a classic indicator of a suspicious or modified file. Conclusion
Because this executable lacks a verified publisher and demonstrates behavior like loading missing DLLs and bypassing PowerShell profiles, it is generally treated as a security risk by automated analysis systems. Users encountering this file should exercise extreme caution, as it appears to function more like a potentially unwanted program (PUP) or malware than a standard system restoration utility. malware removal steps or help you verify if a similar file on your system is safe to delete Windows Analysis Report Restore v3.17.0.0.exe - Joe Sandbox
Automated Malware Analysis Management Report for Restore v3. 17.0. 0.exe - Generated by Joe Sandbox. Joe Sandbox Windows Analysis Report Restore v3.17.0.0.exe - Joe Sandbox
The file Restore V3.17.0.0.exe is a specialized utility primarily used for repairing and formatting USB flash drives equipped with Phison controllers. It is commonly used as a "last resort" for drives that have become write-protected, "unreadable," or show "no media" in Windows Disk Management. Core Functionality: Phison USB Repair
Unlike standard Windows formatting tools, Restore V3.17.0.0.exe performs a low-level format and controller reset. Its main roles include:
Fixing Write-Protection: Bypassing hardware or software errors that prevent files from being deleted or added.
Low-Level Formatting: Completely wiping the USB's NAND flash memory to fix logical corruption.
Controller Reset: Re-initializing the communication between the PC and the Phison microcontroller (e.g., PS2251 series). How to Use Restore V3.17.0.0.exe
Before running this tool, ensure you have backed up any accessible data, as it permanently wipes everything on the drive.
Run as Administrator: Right-click the executable and select "Run as administrator" to ensure it has the required permissions to access drive hardware.
Select the Device: The interface typically lists connected USB devices. Select the Phison-based drive you wish to repair.
Initiate "Restore": Click the "Restore" or "Format" button. This initiates the low-level wipe and controller re-initialization. Restore V3.17.0.0.exe
Completion: Once finished, replug the USB drive to see if it is recognized by Windows. Technical Analysis & Security
Analyses of the file reveal it is a 32-bit PE executable. It is often bundled with other Phison MPALL (Mass Production Tool) components.
Legitimacy: While widely available on hardware enthusiast sites like Elektroda.pl, it is not an official Microsoft tool.
Risk: Because it is frequently shared on third-party forums, always scan the file with a security tool like the Google-owned VirusTotal before execution. Some reports indicate behavior such as loading missing DLLs or reading software policies that may trigger generic "suspicious" flags in sandbox environments. Alternative Troubleshooting
If Restore V3.17.0.0.exe does not recognize your drive, it may not have a Phison controller. You can use the ChipGenius utility to identify your specific controller (e.g., Alcor, SMI, or Kingston) and find the matching repair software. Windows Analysis Report Restore v3.17.0.0.exe - Joe Sandbox
Restore V3.17.0.0.exe is a specific utility primarily known as the Apacer USB Flash Drive Repair Tool. This tool is designed to fix issues with certain USB flash drive models (like AH1xx, AH3xx, and AH5xx) by performing a low-level format or restoration when the device becomes unresponsive or corrupted. Quick Utility Overview
Purpose: Repairing and restoring corrupted USB flash drives.
Manufacturer: Apacer (though it may work with other Phison-based controllers). File Size: Approximately 3.2 MB.
Operating Systems: Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, and 11. How to Use the Repair Tool
If your USB drive is showing "Write Protected," "No Media," or is unreadable, follow these steps as outlined by Softpedia Drivers:
Preparation: Download and decompress the Restore v3.17.0.0_20161028001.zip file. Permissions: Run Restore.exe as an administrator.
Note: You may need to temporarily disable your anti-virus tool if the program is blocked from accessing the drive hardware. Process: Click the Restore button. Confirm by clicking Restore again when prompted.
Completion: The tool will display "Restoring Device..." followed by "Restore Completed" once the repair is finished. Technical Analysis & Safety
Technical reports from Joe Sandbox indicate that this executable is a 32-bit PE file that is often "packed" with UPX to save space. Because it interacts directly with hardware controllers, some security software may flag it as suspicious behavior (evasion or tampering), which is typical for low-level repair utilities.
Warning: Using this tool will erase all data on the USB drive, as it performs a format to restore the hardware's factory state.
Are you trying to recover a specific drive model, or did you need help finding the official download link? AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
Apacer USB Flash Drive Repair Tool 3.17.0.0 - Softpedia Drivers
Download Driver. last update: Dec 31, 2016 manufacturer: Apacer platform: Windows All. file size: 3.2 MB filename Restore v3.17.0. Windows Analysis Report Restore v3.17.0.0.exe - Joe Sandbox
This executable file, "Restore V3.17.0.0.exe", appears to be part of a software restoration or backup process, likely from a specific application or system tool. Restore V3
What it does:
How to use:
Troubleshooting Tips:
Precautions:
Restore V3.17.0.0.exe is a 32-bit executable file primarily associated with USB flash drive repair and recovery tools
. While versions of this file are often legitimate utilities provided by hardware manufacturers to fix corrupted or "RAW" flash drives, its generic naming convention also makes it a common target for file masquerading in sandbox analysis. What is Restore V3.17.0.0.exe?
This specific version (v3.17.0.0) is often part of a specialized repair suite used for NAND flash-based storage devices. Manufacturers like
and Silicon Power frequently release "Online Recovery" or "Restore" tools that use these executables to reformat a drive's controller when it becomes unresponsive. Key functions of the legitimate utility: Low-Level Formatting:
Wipes the drive at a controller level to fix file system errors. Controller Reset:
Communicates directly with the USB's internal chip to restore factory settings. Repairing "Write Protected" Errors:
Overrides software-level locks that prevent data from being saved or deleted. Technical Profile
Technical analysis reports indicate the following characteristics for this executable: 32-bit PE (Portable Executable) file.
Approximately 3.4 MB, which is larger than typical lightweight malware samples. It typically attempts to load wintab32.dll
and checks system software policies to ensure it has the necessary administrative permissions to perform disk operations. Safety and Risks
While the file name is associated with legitimate repair tools, it is frequently flagged in security sandboxes because it performs high-level system changes (like disk formatting and registry edits). Legitimate Sources:
Only run this file if it was downloaded directly from an official manufacturer's support page, such as the Transcend Support Center Data Loss Warning: Using this tool will permanently erase all data
on the connected USB drive as part of the restoration process. Potential for Malware:
If you find this file in a temporary folder or it was downloaded from an unverified third-party "driver" site, it may be a trojan using a familiar utility name to evade detection. to fix a corrupted USB drive? Windows Analysis Report Restore v3.17.0.0.exe - Joe Sandbox
Restore V3.17.0.0.exe is a specialized USB flash drive repair utility primarily used for reviving corrupted or non-responsive drives that utilize Phison controllers. It is frequently bundled as the "Apacer USB Flash Drive Repair Tool" but is widely compatible with various brands like Kingston, Silicon Power, and TDK that use the same internal hardware. Key Functions and Features The purpose of this executable is to restore
The utility is designed as a "last resort" for drives that Windows cannot format or that show common errors like "Disk is Write Protected" or "Please Insert Disk".
Low-Level Formatting: Unlike standard Windows formatting, the "Restore" function performs a low-level format to reset the controller's internal parameters.
Write-Protection Removal: It is a popular solution for removing software-based write protection that occurs when a controller detects a critical error and locks the drive to prevent further data loss.
High-Level Formatting: It offers standard FAT and NTFS formatting options for general maintenance. Compatible Hardware
The tool specifically targets drives with Phison PS2251-XX series controllers. Before using it, you can verify your drive's controller using third-party tools like ChipGenius to check for: VID: 1005 (Apacer) or 13FE (Phison)
Controller Model: PS2251-67, PS2251-70, and similar variants. How to Use Restore V3.17.0.0.exe
If your drive is unrecognized or write-protected, follow these steps:
Backup Data: This process erases all data on the drive. If the drive is accessible, move your files immediately.
Run as Administrator: Right-click the .exe file and select "Run as administrator" to ensure it has the necessary permissions to access the hardware.
Disable Antivirus: Some antivirus programs may flag this tool as suspicious because it interacts directly with hardware drivers at a low level. Execute Repair: Click the Restore button.
Confirm the action when prompted (usually by clicking "Restore" or "Yes" again).
Wait for the "Restore Completed" message before unplugging the drive. Safety and Security Warning
While the legitimate tool is safe for its intended hardware, users should exercise caution:
Malware Risks: Avoid downloading the tool from unverified or suspicious IP-based hosting sites, as these often wrap legitimate utilities in malware. Sources like Softpedia or specialized hardware sites like USBDev.ru are generally more reliable.
Hardware Damage: Using this tool on a drive that does not use a Phison controller can potentially render the drive permanently unusable. Phison Format & Restore v3.26.0.0 - USBDev.ru
After a hard drive failure or OS corruption, you boot from a recovery disk. That disk contains Restore V3.17.0.0.exe as the launcher for restoring a full disk image from an external drive or network location. The executable unpacks compressed .tib, .v2i, or .mrimg files back to your raw disk sectors.
Determine where the file was downloaded. If it was received via email, found in a temporary folder, or downloaded from a "freeware" site with many ads, the risk is high.
At its core, Restore V3.17.0.0.exe is a portable or semi-portable executable file designed to reverse specific changes made to a system, application, or dataset. The nomenclature follows a clear logic:
Restore V3.17.0.0.exe.There are several legitimate software tools that use the name "Restore" or similar variations. The version number 3.17.0.0 is a specific build tag. Potential legitimate candidates include:
Restore.exe or Update.exe during the extraction process.C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Local\Temp\C:\ProgramData\Always scan the file with updated antivirus software before executing it. Upload it to VirusTotal.com for a second opinion.