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Fix MSConfig Access Denied When Changing a Service
You need administrative privileges to change the services running and status
5 min. read
Published onJuly 3, 2024
published onJuly 3, 2024
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Resolve multiple Windows PC issues and speed up your PC effortlessly with specialized software.
Running into an “Access Denied” error when trying to use msconfig can be incredibly frustrating. This issue often stems from permission problems, corrupted system files, or even malware. Here are some tried-and-true solutions to help you regain control over your system configuration.
What do I do if MSConfig says Access denied?
1. Boot into Safe Mode and log in as Administrator
This method helps reset any incorrect Safe Mode settings and allows you to log in with elevated privileges, which might resolve the access denied errors you’re experiencing.
2. Modify the Boot ini file manually
Editing the boot ini file directly helps you remove forced Safe Mode boots, which can sometimes cause access issues.
3. Make sure you have Administrator privileges
This ensures your account has the right permissions to make changes in msconfig.
4. Use Command Prompt to run msconfig as administrator
Running msconfig from an elevated Command Prompt bypasses restrictions that might be causing the access denied error.
5. Check for malware or corrupted system files
Malware or corrupted system files can disrupt system operations. Scanning and repairing these ensures a clean environment for msconfig to run.
6. Edit the Registry for PML Driver HPZ12 (for HP printer users)
Changing the startup type of the PML Driver HPZ12 may resolve conflicts that cause access denied errors when using msconfig, especially in environments with HP software.
7. Check for conflicts with Norton Internet Security
Some users have reported conflicts between Norton Internet Security and msconfig. Disabling Norton can determine if it’s the root cause of the issue.
8. Use third-party utilities
MSConfig is a great tool, but you can use many other apps instead. Luckily, we have a complete guide with thebest MSConfig alternatives for PC.
That’s it! Now, hopefully, you have complete access to System Configuration and the MSConfig Access denied error is not bothering you anymore. Now, you may need out guide onhow to use MSConfigon your PC to get around it.
And while you’re at it, here’s our guide onwhat services you should disable on Windows 11for optimum performance.
Now, if you have any other issues or questions, let us know in the comments below.
More about the topics:administrator account,Windows
Claudiu Andone
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Oldtimer in the tech and science press, Claudiu is focused on whatever comes new from Microsoft.
His abrupt interest in computers started when he saw the first Home Computer as a kid. However, his passion for Windows and everything related became obvious when he became a sys admin in a computer science high school.
With 14 years of experience in writing about everything there is to know about science and technology, Claudiu also likes rock music, chilling in the garden, and Star Wars. May the force be with you, always!
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Claudiu Andone
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Oldtimer in the tech and science press, with 14 years of experience in writing on everything there is to know about science, technology, and Microsoft
