Access is Denied: Troubleshooting Services.msc in Windows 10
The "Access is Denied" error when trying to open Services.msc in Windows 10 can be frustrating. This error indicates that your user account lacks the necessary permissions to access and manage system services. This article will guide you through troubleshooting this issue and regaining access to Services.msc.
Understanding the Problem
Services.msc is a crucial tool for managing Windows services, which are programs that run in the background and provide core functionalities to your operating system. Accessing and modifying these services can significantly impact your system's performance and behavior.
The "Access is Denied" error usually occurs due to:
- Insufficient User Permissions: Your user account might not have the required administrator privileges to manage services.
- Corrupted User Profile: A corrupted user profile can lead to permission issues.
- Third-Party Software Conflicts: Certain programs might interfere with system services, preventing access.
- Malware or Virus Infections: Malware can manipulate system settings and restrict access.
Troubleshooting Steps
Here are several steps you can take to resolve the "Access is Denied" error in Services.msc:
1. Run as Administrator:
- Right-click on the Services.msc shortcut or the Start button and select "Run as administrator".
- This will temporarily grant your user account elevated privileges to access Services.msc.
2. Check User Permissions:
- Open Control Panel: Search for "Control Panel" in the Start menu and select it.
- Go to User Accounts: In the Control Panel, navigate to "User Accounts" and select "Manage another account".
- Modify Permissions: Locate your user account, and select "Change account type". Ensure your account is set to "Administrator".
3. Create a New User Account:
- If the issue persists, consider creating a new administrator account. You can do this by following the steps in Step 2, but instead of modifying your existing account, select "Create a new account".
- Log in to the new account and try accessing Services.msc. If it works, you can transfer your files and settings to the new account.
4. Use System File Checker (SFC) & DISM:
- SFC: Run the System File Checker to scan for and repair corrupted system files. Type "cmd" in the Start menu search bar, right-click on Command Prompt, and select "Run as administrator". In the Command Prompt window, type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. - DISM: If SFC doesn't resolve the issue, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool to repair corrupted system images. In the Command Prompt, type
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthand press Enter.
5. Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall:
- While not recommended as a long-term solution, temporarily disabling your antivirus and firewall might help identify if they are interfering with Services.msc.
- Remember to re-enable them after troubleshooting.
6. Consult System Logs:
- Open Event Viewer (search for "Event Viewer" in the Start menu).
- Navigate to Windows Logs > System.
- Look for error messages related to Services.msc or user account permissions. This can provide valuable insights into the underlying problem.
7. Consider System Restore:
- If all other steps fail, you can try restoring your system to a previous point in time when Services.msc was working correctly.
- Access System Restore by searching for it in the Start menu.
Important Note:
- Always be cautious when making changes to system settings, as incorrect modifications can cause severe problems.
- If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified IT professional or refer to official Microsoft documentation for detailed instructions.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "Access is Denied" error and regain access to Services.msc in Windows 10. Remember to back up your important data before making any significant system changes.