Run Services.msc with TrustedInstaller in Windows 10
Windows 10 includes numerous services that are essential for the proper functioning of the operating system. However, sometimes it is necessary to manage or modify these services, which can be done using the Services management console (services.msc) in the Microsoft Management Console (MMC). One of the most powerful users in this context is TrustedInstaller, which is the default account for installing and uninstalling Windows updates and service packs.
What is TrustedInstaller?
TrustedInstaller is a built-in Windows 10 user account that belongs to the Administrators group. Its primary purpose is to install, modify, and delete Windows updates and service packs. The account has full control over system files and registry keys, and it operates with the highest privileges on the system. This account is the default owner of system files and registry keys, including the services.msc MMC snap-in.
How to Run Services.msc with TrustedInstaller?
Running services.msc with TrustedInstaller requires special privileges. One way to achieve this is by using the built-in MMC system or by using third-party tools such as NirSoft's AdvancedRun.
Using the Built-in MMC System
To open services.msc as TrustedInstaller using the built-in MMC system, follow these steps:
- Click on the Windows Start button and type "cmd" in the search box.
- Right-click on the Command Prompt app and select "Run as administrator" from the context menu.
- Type the following command in the Command Prompt window and press Enter:
mmc %windir%\system32\services.mscThe Services MMC snap-in should open using the TrustedInstaller account. You can now manage and modify Windows 10 services with elevated privileges.
Using NirSoft's AdvancedRun
Another way to open services.msc as TrustedInstaller is by using NirSoft's AdvancedRun, a portable utility that allows running programs with various user accounts and privileges.
- Download and extract NirSoft's AdvancedRun utility from the official website.
- Launch AdvancedRun.exe and enter the following command in the "Application path" field:
%windir%\system32\services.msc- In the "Run as" drop-down list, select "The following user" and enter the username "NT SERVICE\TrustedInstaller" and the password for the account.
- Click on the "Run" button to launch services.msc as TrustedInstaller.
Key Concepts
To summarize, this article has covered the following key concepts:
- What TrustedInstaller is and its role in Windows 10
- How to run services.msc with TrustedInstaller using the built-in MMC system
- How to run services.msc with TrustedInstaller using NirSoft's AdvancedRun utility
References
- Run As Command (Microsoft)
- NirSoft's AdvancedRun