Help starting Security Centre service

erb

I have recently got a new HP desktop. Using Windows XP media centre edition. When I go to the Security Centre in XP it shows:

Security Essentials
The Security Centre is currently unavailable because the Security Centre service has not started or was stopped. Close the SC window and restart the computer (or start the Security Centre service) and then open the Security Centre again.

Also, there is an option stating "Change the way Security Centre alerts me." But this option is disabled.

I have shut down and started the PC several times and still get the same message. I have tried searching for help on starting the security centre service but have found nothing.

Can anybody help please?

Reluctant_spender

Have you checked this service is running in the services list - try this

Start -run - services.msc - scroll down to Security Centre -look to the right and under the start up tab it should say AUTOMATIC.

If not double click it a box will open and you should be able to alter it.

Nikolai

Go to administrative tools, click services, scroll down to security centre and click to start it - set the startup type to automatic.

erb

Followed Nikolai's instructions and that fixed it :T .

I never would have found how to do this without above posters help.

albertross_2

I'd also make sure your windows is patched with auto updates, and check for malware (see sticky thread at top of page), it is unusual for this service to be disabled if you have sp2..