Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about using HWMonitor, understanding sensor data and troubleshooting. For further help, see the Support & Community page or the home page.

Temperatures & Sensors

Is HWMonitor accurate for GPU temperatures?
Yes. HWMonitor reads GPU temps directly from the card’s sensors, so readings are generally accurate. Some users see slight differences versus MSI Afterburner or other tools. For overclocking or detailed thermal analysis, cross-check with a second utility if needed.

Which CPU temperature matters most: package, cores, or motherboard?
Focus on CPU package and the highest core temperatures; they reflect the real thermal state of the processor. Motherboard CPU readings are often lower and less reliable. Keeping the CPU under 90–95°C under load is within safe range for most modern chips.

What do TMPIN readings mean in HWMonitor?
TMPIN refers to motherboard temperature sensors; their exact role depends on the board manufacturer. They may report VRM, CPU socket, chipset or other areas. Names are not standardized, so check your motherboard manual to interpret them.

Power & Values

Can HWMonitor show GPU power draw?
Yes. If your GPU supports it, HWMonitor can show power from the PCIe slot and from auxiliary connectors (6-pin or 8-pin). Add those values to estimate total GPU power, useful when sizing a PSU or planning upgrades.

Editions & Installation

What is the difference between HWMonitor and HWMonitor PRO?
The free HWMonitor runs on one PC with full sensor monitoring. HWMonitor PRO adds remote monitoring for multiple PCs on a network, aimed at IT admins and power users managing several machines.

Portable ZIP or installer?
The portable ZIP runs from any folder or USB drive with no installation. The installer adds Start shortcuts and uninstall via Add or Remove Programs. Monitoring features are the same; choose based on whether you want a fixed install or a portable one.

Trust & Security

My antivirus reports HWMonitor. Is it safe?
HWMonitor is a legitimate system monitoring tool. Low-level sensor utilities sometimes trigger false positives. Always download from official or trusted sources. Skip unofficial repacks and unknown sites. You can verify the file with multiple scan engines for extra confidence.

General

What operating systems does HWMonitor support?
HWMonitor is for Windows (x86/x64), optimized for Windows 10 and 11. It may run on older Windows versions where supported. It does not support macOS or Linux.

Is HWMonitor free?
Yes. The free edition is for personal and general use on a single PC. HWMonitor PRO adds remote monitoring; the free version is enough for one-machine monitoring.