How to Fix Malwarebytes’ “Unable to Connect to Service” Error in Windows 10 & 11
Malwarebytes is one of the more highly rated antimalware software for Windows. So, it’s a pity when some users can’t utilize Malwarebytes because of an error message that says “unable to connect the Service.” Some users have reported seeing that error message when they endeavor to open Malwarebytes.
Users who’ve purchased the premium version of Malwarebytes will be particularly annoyed by this issue. Are you also stumped by Malwarebytes’ “unable to connect” error? If you are, this is how you can fix the “unable to connect the service” error for MalwareBytes in Windows 10 and 11.
1. Set Malwarebytes to Run as an Administrator
First, try applying simpler potential solutions, such as running Malwarebytes as an administrator. This will at least ensure the software has full system permissions when you start it.
Our guide foralways running apps as an administratorexplains how you can apply this potential fix.
2. Check That the Malwarebytes Service Is Enabled and Running
The Malwarebytes Service is needed for the Malwarebytes software to run properly. The “unable to connect the service” error message may occur if this service isn’t running. So, check that the Malwarebytes Service is enabled and running as follows:
3. Check That the Windows Management Instrumentation Is Enabled and Running
Many software packages need the Windows Management Instrumentation Service enabled to function correctly. So, check that the Windows Management Instrumentation service is set toAutomaticand running as well.
Open Services (seehow to open Services on Windows). double-clickWindows Management Instrumentation, and select itsAutomaticandStartoption from there as outlined for the second resolution.
4. Repair Malwarebytes With Its Dedicated Support Tool
Malwarebytes has a support tool many users have confirmed has helped them resolve the “unable to connect to service” error. That utility includes aRepair Systemoption that could be useful for resolving this issue.
Here is how you can repair Malwarebytes with its support tool:
5. Run a Malware Scan With Windows Security
Malwarebytes is a common target for malware because it’s an antivirus utility. So, there’s a possibility of malware causing this Malwarebytes startup issue. You can purge malware by running a manual Microsoft Defender scan within the Windows Security app like this:
6. Reinstall Malwarebytes
Users have also resolved the “unable to connect to service” error by reinstalling Malwarebytes. The Malwarebytes Support Tool includes a Clean option for uninstalling and reinstalling the software. This is how you may reinstall Malwarebytes with its support tool:
Now You Can (Probably) Utilize Malwarebytes
These Windows-based solutions for the “unable to connect to service” error have worked for many users trying to kick-start Malwarebytes. So, it’s most likely one will resolve the same Malwarebytes error on your PC.
Unfortunately, we can’t promise guaranteed fixes. You can submit a support ticket to theMalwarebytes help serviceif more troubleshooting suggestions for this error are required.
While the free version of Malwarebytes is awesome, the premium version has a bunch of useful and worthwhile features.
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