To fix ERROR_SERVICE_DISABLED, enable the disabled service from an administrator Command Prompt. Run the sc config command to set Windows Update and BITS to automatic start, then use net start to launch them. Restart your PC afterward, and the update or feature that failed should run normally.
Quick Steps
- Search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click it, and pick Run as administrator.
- Type sc config wuauserv start= auto and press Enter.
- Type sc config bits start= auto and press Enter.
- Type net start wuauserv and press Enter.
- Type net start bits and press Enter.
- Close the window and restart your computer.
- Retry the update or task that showed the error.
Important Details
There must be a space after the equals sign in start= auto, or the command will not work.
A reply saying SUCCESS after each sc config line confirms the change was saved.
The commands are the same on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
If you prefer clicking, the built-in Windows Update troubleshooter under Settings > Troubleshoot can switch services back on for you.
Common Problems
"Access is denied" message: Close the window and reopen Command Prompt using Run as administrator.
Error 1058 when running net start: The service is still disabled, so run the matching sc config line again, then retry net start.
Command seems to do nothing: Check for the missing space after start= and retype the line carefully.
FAQs
Is the Command Prompt method safe?
Yes. It only changes how two standard Windows services start and does not touch your files.
Can I undo it later?
Yes. Use sc config wuauserv start= demand to set the service back to manual.
Is this the same as using services.msc?
It gives the same result, just through typed commands instead of the Services window.
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