How to Fix ‘Windows Resource Protection Could Not Start the Repair Service’ Error

Encountering issues with the System File Checker (SFC) scan can be frustrating, especially when Windows Resource Protection is unable to initiate its repair service. This situation often arises due to the misconfiguration or disabling of the Windows Modules Installer (TrustedInstaller) service, which is essential for the SFC to function correctly. This guide will provide you with effective steps to restore the proper functioning of SFC, ensuring your system files remain intact and your Windows experience smooth.

Enabling the Windows Modules Installer Service

1- Access the Services Window:

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.

• Type services.msc and hit Enter to launch the Services window.

2- Locate and Configure the Service:

• Scroll down to find the Windows Modules Installer in the list.

• Double-click it to open its properties.

3- Set Startup Type:

• In the properties window, set the Startup type to either Manual or Automatic from the dropdown menu.

• If the Service status reads Stopped, click on Start to activate it.

4- Apply the Changes:

• Click Apply and then OK to confirm your adjustments. You can now close the Services window.

Run System File Checker:

Open Command Prompt as an administrator and execute the command sfc /scannow to begin the scan.

Starting TrustedInstaller via Command Prompt

1- Open Command Prompt:

• Search for Command Prompt in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.

2- Start the TrustedInstaller Service:

• In the Command Prompt window, type the command: net start trustedinstaller

• Press Enter and wait for a confirmation that the service has started successfully.

3- Recheck SFC:

• Once the service is active, attempt to run sfc /scannow again to see if the issue persists.

Checking Service Permissions in the Registry

1- Open Registry Editor:

• Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter. If prompted, allow the application to make changes.

2- Navigate to the TrustedInstaller Path:

Drill down through the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\TrustedInstaller

3- Modify Start Value:

Ensure that the Start value is set to 2 (Manual). If it’s set to 4 (Disabled), double-click the Start entry, then change its value to 2.

4- Finalize and Restart:

• Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer. After rebooting, try running SFC once more.

Running SFC in Safe Mode

1- Access Windows Recovery Environment:

Open the Start menu, click the Power icon, hold down the Shift key, and choose Restart.

2- Navigate to Safe Mode:

Select Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, and click on Startup Settings followed by Restart.

Upon restart, press the number corresponding to Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

3- Execute SFC:

In Safe Mode, open Command Prompt as an administrator and run sfc /scannow.

Conclusion

Addressing issues with the TrustedInstaller service status and its permissions can often resolve SFC error messages, restoring your capability to repair system files effectively. By keeping the Windows Modules Installer service set to Manual or Automatic, you can help prevent future complications with system repairs. If you follow these steps and regularly maintain your system, you can ensure a healthier and more stable Windows environment.