Run Programs as Background Services in Windows - A Comprehensive Guide
Running Applications as Windows Services
Many Windows users utilize numerous helpful utilities that automatically launch upon system startup. While this functionality is sufficient for the majority of applications, certain programs benefit from initiating even prior to user login. Achieving this requires configuring the application to operate as a Windows service.
Understanding Windows Services
Windows services represent a distinct category of programs designed to launch and execute in the background. Typically, these programs function without a user interface and do not necessitate user login. They are often recognized by advanced users as components that could previously be disabled to enhance system performance, though this practice is now less critical.
The key benefit of running an application as a service is its ability to start before any user logs in. This is especially valuable for applications providing essential services that should remain accessible even when you are not actively using the computer.
Related: Should You Disable Windows Services to Speed Up Your PC?
A Practical Example: Plex Media Server
Consider Plex, a media server application capable of streaming local content to a wide range of devices. While Plex can operate conventionally within the system tray, a computer restart – due to power failure or scheduled updates – would render it unavailable until a user logs back in.
This can be inconvenient if you need to remotely access your media, such as when traveling or simply moving to another room. Configuring Plex as a service ensures continuous availability, eliminating the need for manual restarts.
Important Considerations
Before proceeding, acknowledge these important points regarding running an application as a service:
- The application will not display an icon in the system tray. If frequent access to the application's interface is required, running it as a service may not be ideal.
- Making configuration changes or applying updates necessitates stopping the service, running the program as a standard application, completing the necessary modifications, stopping the program, and then restarting the service.
- If the program is already configured to launch at Windows startup, disable this setting to prevent multiple instances from running concurrently. Most programs offer a toggle for this setting within their interface. Alternatively, check your Startup folder and remove the application from there.
Are you prepared to begin? Let's explore the setup process.
Utilizing SrvStart for Application Services
Running an application continuously as a service necessitates the use of a supplementary utility. While numerous options exist, SrvStart is a preferred choice. Initially created for Windows NT, its compatibility extends to a wide range of Windows versions, including Windows XP and later.
Begin by visiting the SrvStart download page to obtain the utility. The downloaded package comprises four files – two DLLs and two EXEs. Installation is streamlined as it doesn't require a traditional installer.
Instead, simply copy these files directly into your computer’s C:\Windows directory. This action effectively "installs" SrvStart on your system.
It is assumed that the application intended to be converted into a service has already been installed and configured. If not, completing this setup is recommended prior to proceeding.
Establishing a Configuration File for the New Service
Following the initial step, the creation of a configuration file is necessary. This file will be utilized by SrvStart to manage the service. SrvStart offers extensive functionality, with comprehensive details regarding all configuration options available in the official documentation.
For this demonstration, we will focus on utilizing only two commands: startup, which defines the program to be initiated, and shutdown_method, which instructs SrvStart on how to terminate the program when the service is halted.
Configuration File Details
Launch a text editor like Notepad and construct your configuration file adhering to the following structure. This example uses Plex, but the process is adaptable for any application you intend to operate as a service.
The startup command indicates the precise location of the executable file. Regarding the shutdown_method command, we are employing the winmessage parameter. This instructs SrvStart to transmit a Windows close message to any windows associated with the service.
[Plex] startup="C:\Program Files (x86)\Plex\Plex Media Server\Plex Media Server.exe" shutdown_method=winmessage
Remember to modify the path and filename to correspond with the specific program you are launching.
Saving the Configuration File
Save the newly created configuration file to a location of your choosing. Crucially, replace the .txt file extension with .ini. Retain the filename for use in the subsequent step.
To simplify command-line input, it is recommended to temporarily save the file directly to your C: drive.
Creating a New Service Using the Command Prompt
The subsequent action involves utilizing the Windows Service Controller (SC) command to establish a new service, based on the parameters defined within your configuration file. Initiate the Command Prompt by right-clicking the Start menu – or by pressing Windows+X – then selecting "Command Prompt (Admin)" and confirming the administrative privileges request.
Within the Command Prompt environment, employ the following syntax to generate the new service:
SC CREATE <servicename> Displayname= "<servicename>" binpath= "srvstart.exe <servicename> -c <path to srvstart config file>" start= <starttype>
Several key points should be considered regarding this command. Notably, a space must follow each equal sign (=); this is a mandatory requirement. Furthermore, the <servicename> designation is entirely at your discretion. Finally, for the <starttype> parameter, specifying auto is recommended to ensure the service initiates automatically upon Windows startup.
Considering our Plex illustration, the command would appear as follows:
SC CREATE Plex Displayname= "Plex" binpath= "srvstart.exe Plex -c C:PlexService.ini" start= auto
As demonstrated, the path C:PlexService.ini was used, omitting the backslash typically found in C:\PlexService.ini. The command necessitates this removal.
Upon execution of the command, a SUCCESS message should be displayed, indicating successful completion.
From this juncture, the newly created service will operate whenever Windows boots up. Accessing the Windows Services interface – by simply clicking Start and typing "Services" – allows you to locate and configure the service, mirroring the process for any other Windows service.
This concludes the process. Should you have applications that require startup with Windows, but without necessitating user login, converting them into a service is a straightforward solution. We have only covered the fundamental method for service creation and execution.
Further Exploration
- SrvStart offers extensive capabilities for refining service operation.
- Consult the official documentation for a deeper understanding of advanced features.
Related: How to Delete a Windows Service on Windows 10 or Windows 11
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