Software Protection - Windows 11 Service
Enables the download, installation and enforcement of digital licenses for Windows and Windows applications. If the service is disabled, the operating system and licensed applications may run in a notification mode. It is strongly recommended that you not disable the Software Protection service.
This service also exists in Windows 10, 7 and 8.
Startup Type
| Windows 11 version | Home | Pro | Education | Enterprise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21H2 | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| 22H2 | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| 23H2 | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| 24H2 | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
Default Properties
| Display name: | Software Protection |
| Service name: | sppsvc |
| Type: | own |
| Path: | %WinDir%\system32\sppsvc.exe |
| Error control: | normal |
| Object: | NT AUTHORITY\NetworkService |
| Privileges: |
|
Default Behavior
The Software Protection service is running as NT AUTHORITY\NetworkService in its own process of sppsvc.exe. It doesn't share its process with other services. If Software Protection fails to start, the error is logged. Windows 11 startup proceeds, but a message box is displayed informing you that the sppsvc service has failed to start.
Dependencies
Software Protection is unable to start, if the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service is stopped or disabled.
Restore Default Startup Type for Software Protection
Automated Restore
1. Select your Windows 11 edition and release, and then click on the Download button below.
2. Save the RestoreSoftwareProtectionWindows11.bat file to any folder on a local drive such as SSD or a hard disk.
3. Right-click the downloaded batch file and select Properties.
4. Check the Unblock checkbox and click OK.
5. Right-click the batch file again and select Run as administrator.
6. Restart the computer to save changes.
Note. Make sure that the sppsvc.exe file exists in the %WinDir%\system32 folder. If this file is missing you can try to restore it from your Windows 11 installation media.