How to Fix the Security Center Can't Be Started Error for Free

The role of the Security Center component in Windows is to notify you of security-related events. Generally, the Security Center will prompt you when one of your security programs is out of date or disabled. If this component is disabled, Windows will no longer be able to alert you of these events. Additionally, if disabled, you will be presented with the option to turn it back on. If you receive a message that states it cannot be started after pressing the "Turn on now" button, you must enable the dependency service.

Instructions

1. Press the "Windows" and "R" keys simultaneously on your keyboard.

2. Type "Services.msc" in the Run box and click "OK." This loads the Windows services tool.

3. Double-click "Security Center" to load the properties for this service.

4. Click the "Startup type" drop-down menu and change from "Disabled" to "Automatic." Press the "Apply" button to save the change. The service will automatically start the next time you load your computer. You may force the service to start without rebooting, by pressing the "Start" button. You should now be able to press the "Turn on now" button in the Security Center without error.

References

• Vista X64: How to Disable or Enable the Security Center Alert Warning Notification in Vista
• Vista X64: How to Disable or Enable Security Center in Vista
• Microsoft Social: The Windows Security Center Service can't be Started.