What is HidCerberus.Srv Service and How to Uninstall it?

HidCerberus.Srv service is a software utility developed by nefarius.at, which is designed to manage input devices, particularly those that are not natively supported by the Windows operating system. This article will provide an in-depth understanding of HidCerberus.Srv service, its purpose, and how to uninstall it if necessary in Windows 11 or Windows 10.

Also see: How to Use Wireless Controller as Mouse and Keyboard in Windows 11

What is HidCerberus.Srv service?

HidCerberus.Srv service is part of a broader software suite known as the ViGEmBus (Virtual Gamepad Emulation Framework), which is aimed at facilitating input device emulation and management on Windows-based systems. This utility enables the user to create virtual devices that can then be used as input devices for various software applications and games.

The primary function of HidCerberus.Srv service is to allow users to manage their Human Interface Device (HID) input devices, such as game controllers, joysticks, and steering wheels, which may not be natively supported by Windows. By doing so, HidCerberus.Srv.exe service ensures smooth integration and functionality of these input devices with various applications and games.

Related issue: Controller Not Working with Dolphin Emulator (Fix)

What does HidCerberus service do?

HidCerberus.Srv service offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Input Device Compatibility: The utility enables users to utilize input devices that may not be supported by Windows by default, thereby expanding the range of devices that can be used with the system.
2. Enhanced Gaming Experience: Gamers can take advantage of HidCerberus.Srv service to create custom configurations for their input devices, optimizing their gaming experience.
3. Advanced Emulation: The service allows users to emulate input devices for software testing, debugging, or development purposes.

Is HidCerberus.Srv service safe?

HidCerberus.Srv service is generally considered safe, as it is a legitimate utility developed by a reputable source. However, users should exercise caution when downloading and installing the software to ensure they are using the authentic version. Always download the software from the official website or trusted sources.

It is worth mentioning that, like any software, HidCerberus.Srv service may be susceptible to vulnerabilities, which could potentially be exploited by malicious actors. Therefore, it is essential to keep the software up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates.

Additionally, users should maintain proper security practices, such as using antivirus software and firewalls, to minimize any potential risks associated with using HidCerberus.Srv service.

HidCerberus.Srv service and related software

HidCerberus.Srv service is often used in conjunction with other software utilities to manage and optimize input devices. Some of the related software includes:

1. HIDGuardian: A Windows kernel-mode driver that acts as a complementary component to HidCerberus.Srv service. HIDGuardian helps prevent input devices from being accessed by multiple applications simultaneously, avoiding input conflicts and improving overall system stability.
2. BetterJoy: A software utility that allows Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers and Joy-Cons to be used as input devices on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems. BetterJoy relies on HidCerberus.Srv service and HIDGuardian for optimal functionality and device management.
3. BetterJoyForCemu: A fork of the original BetterJoy software, BetterJoyForCemu is specifically designed to work with the Cemu Wii U emulator, enabling users to use their Nintendo Switch controllers with Wii U games emulated on Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems.
4. ProconXInput: A software that adds XInput support for the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, allowing it to be recognized as an Xbox controller for compatibility with a wide range of games and applications on Windows systems.

These utilities often rely on HidCerberus.Srv service to manage and control the input devices, ensuring smooth integration and functionality with various applications and games.

Useful tip: How to Play PC Games with PS5, PS4 or Xbox Controller on Windows 11

How to uninstall HidCerberus.Srv service

If you no longer need HidCerberus.Srv service or wish to remove it for any reason, follow the steps below to uninstall it by uninstalling the associated software, such as ViGEmBus, HIDGuardian, BetterJoy, ProconXInput or BetterJoyForCemu, from your Windows 10 or Windows 11 system:

Run the uninstaller that comes with the associated software:

1. If you are using, for example, BetterJoy or ProconXInput, locate the folder where you run the software from (e.g. usually in the “Downloads” folder if you have not moved it after downloading it).
2. Look for any .exe or .bat file that indicates uninstalling the driver or the software, and run it.
3. Restart your computer.

Uninstall the associated software via “Apps and features”:

1. Press Win + X to open the Windows Quick Access menu.
2. Select Apps and Features.
3. Locate the associated software in the list of installed programs, such as ViGEmBus, HIDGuardian, BetterJoy, or BetterJoyForCemu.
4. Click on the program and select Uninstall.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.

Search for HidCerberus.Srv service files using File Explorer:

1. Press Win + E to open File Explorer.
2. Click on the search bar in the upper right corner.
3. Type HidCerberus and press Enter.
4. If any files or folders related to HidCerberus.Srv service are found, right-click on them and select Delete.

Reinstalling the associated software

If you encounter issues with the HidCerberus.Srv service or any of the associated software, such as BetterJoy or BetterJoyForCemu, try reinstalling the software to resolve the problem. Follow these steps to reinstall the software:

1. Uninstall the problematic software following the steps outlined in the “How to uninstall HidCerberus.Srv service” section.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Download the latest version of the software from its official website or a trusted source. For example:
   • BetterJoy: https://github.com/Davidobot/BetterJoy
4. Install the software following the provided instructions.
5. Restart your computer once more to ensure the changes take effect.

If reinstalling the software does not resolve the issue, consider seeking assistance from the software’s support forums or community.

Final thoughts

HidCerberus.Srv service is a useful utility for managing and emulating input devices on Windows systems, particularly for gamers and developers. While the software is generally safe, it is crucial to follow proper security practices and download it from reputable sources. If you no longer need HidCerberus.Srv service or wish to remove it, follow the steps outlined in this article to uninstall it from your system safely.