WLAN AutoConfig (WlanSvc) startup type, default configuration, and information
Registry Name:
WlanSvc
Display Name:
WLAN AutoConfig
Description:
The WLANSVC service provides the logic required to configure, discover, connect to, and disconnect from a wireless local area network (WLAN) as defined by IEEE 802.11 standards. It also contains the logic to turn your computer into a software access point so that other devices or computers can connect to your computer wirelessly using a WLAN adapter that can support this. Stopping or disabling the WLANSVC service will make all WLAN adapters on your computer inaccessible from the Windows networking UI. It is strongly recommended that you have the WLANSVC service running if your computer has a WLAN adapter.
For more information, see the Additional Information section.
Default Status:
Stopped
Default Startup Type:
Manual
Learn more about the different startup types of Windows services in Microsoft Windows.
Image Path:
C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe -k LocalSystemNetworkRestricted -p
svchost.exe is a system process that hosts and manages Windows services running from DLL files rather than standalone executable files, allowing Windows to modularize and efficiently manage background tasks.
svchost.exe loads and runs Windows services, such as networking, Windows Update, audio, and many others. Multiple instances of svchost.exe can run simultaneously, each hosting different services. This helps with stability and security—if one service fails, it doesn't crash all services.
DLL File Path:
C:\WINDOWS\System32\wlansvc.dll
Dependencies:
The service depends on the following system components to function properly:
System components that depend on this service to function properly:
- None
Log On As:
LocalSystem
Additional Information:
The WLAN AutoConfig (WlanSvc) service is a core Windows component that manages Wi-Fi connectivity by automatically detecting, connecting, and configuring wireless networks. It supports WPA2/WPA3 encryption, enterprise authentication (like 802.1X), and roaming between access points, ensuring seamless internet access. The service also enables features such as hotspot auto-connection and network profile management.
The windows service runs automatically and is critical for Wi-Fi functionality. Disabling it will break all wireless connectivity, forcing reliance on wired networks.
Windows Service Startup Type:
In Microsoft Windows, Windows services can be configured with different startup types that determine how and when they are started:
- Automatic: The service starts automatically when Windows boots.
- Automatic (Delayed Start): The service starts automatically after the system has finished booting and initial services have started, helping improve startup performance.
- Manual: The service does not start automatically. It must be started by a user or another process when needed.
- Manual (Trigger Start): The service starts manually or in response to specific system events (triggers), such as device insertion or network changes.
- Disabled: The service is prevented from starting, even if required by the system or an application.