Overview
The Software Protection service plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper functioning of licensed software, particularly Microsoft Office applications. However, users may encounter an error message indicating that Windows could not start this service, accompanied by Error 5: Access is Denied. This article presents a comprehensive guide to resolving this issue effectively.
Taking Ownership of sppsvc.exe
- Navigate to the System32 folder located in the system drive (usually C:\Windows\System32).
- Locate the sppsvc.exe file, right-click on it, and select “Properties.”
- Switch to the “Security” tab and click on the “Advanced” button.
- In the “Owner” section, click on “Change.”
- Enter your user account name in the “Enter the object name to select” field and click on “Check Names.”
- Click on “OK” to confirm the changes.
- Back in the “Permissions” tab, select your user account and enable the “Full Control” and “Read” permissions.
- Click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
Taking Ownership of the Registry Key
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type “regedit,” and press Enter.
- Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\SoftwareProtectionPlatform
- Right-click on the “SoftwareProtectionPlatform” key and select “Permissions.”
- In the “Group or user names” list, select “sppsvc.”
- Enable the “Full Control” and “Read” permissions for “sppsvc.”
- Click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
Running DISM
- Press Win + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin).”
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
Copy
/Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Wait for the DISM operation to complete, which may take some time.
- Restart your computer and check if the Software Protection service starts successfully.
Additional Considerations
- Ensure that you have created a system restore point before making any changes to your system.
- Taking ownership of system elements may reduce the security of your operating system.
- If the issue persists, consider seeking professional assistance from a qualified technician.
FAQ
What is the Software Protection service and why is it important?
The Software Protection service is a critical Windows service responsible for managing the licensing and activation of software, particularly Microsoft Office applications. It ensures that licensed software is used in accordance with the terms of its license agreement.
What causes the “Windows could not start the Software Protection service” error?
This error can occur due to various reasons, including incorrect permissions on the sppsvc.exe file or the related registry key, corruption in system files, or interference from third-party software.
How can I resolve the “Windows could not start the Software Protection service” error?
To resolve this error, you can try taking ownership of the sppsvc.exe file and the corresponding registry key, running the DISM tool to repair system files, or seeking professional assistance from a qualified technician.
What are the potential risks of taking ownership of system elements?
Taking ownership of system elements, such as files or registry keys, may reduce the security of your operating system. It is important to exercise caution and create a system restore point before making any changes.
Are there any alternative methods to resolve the “Windows could not start the Software Protection service” error?
In some cases, you may be able to resolve the issue by performing a clean boot, which starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. Additionally, you can try using the System File Checker (SFC) tool to scan for and repair corrupted system files.
What should I do if the issue persists after trying the suggested solutions?
If the issue persists despite trying the recommended solutions, it is advisable to seek professional assistance from a qualified technician. They can diagnose the root cause of the problem and provide tailored solutions.
How can I prevent the “Windows could not start the Software Protection service” error from occurring in the future?
To prevent this error from occurring in the future, it is important to keep your Windows operating system and software up to date, avoid installing unauthorized or pirated software, and use a reputable antivirus program to protect your system from malware and other threats.
