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 try 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 for always running apps as an administrator explains 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:

  • Activate the Run command box with the Win + R hotkey.
  • Type services.msc in the Open box and select OK to launch Services.
  • Double-click Malwarebytes Services to access that service’s properties window.
  • Then click on the Startup type drop-down menu to open it and select Automatic from there.
  • Select Start to run the Malwarebytes Services.
  • Click the service’s Apply and OK options.

    • 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 to Automatic and running as well.

    Open Services (see how to open Services on Windows). double-click Windows Management Instrumentation, and select its Automatic and Start option 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 a Repair System option that could be useful for resolving this issue.

    Here is how you can repair Malwarebytes with its support tool:

  • Open this Malwarebytes Support Tool webpage.
  • Then click Download Now > External mirror on that webpage.
  • Bring up the directory (folder) that your web browser downloads the mb-support-1.8.7.918.exe file in.
  • Double-click the mb-support-1.8.7.918.exe file for the Malwarebytes Support Tool.
  • Select the Accept License Agreement checkbox and Next to bring up the support tool.
  • Click the Advanced tab.
  • Select all four checkboxes for the Repair System option.
  • Press the Repair System button.
  • Restart your PC when prompted.

    • 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:

  • Double-click Windows Security in the system tray to launch that app.
  • Select Virus & threat protection and Scan options to access some Microsoft Defender scanning radio buttons.
  • Click the radio button labeled Full Scan.
  • Press Scan now to start a Microsoft Defender scan.

    • 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 can reinstall Malwarebytes with its support tool:

  • Download and open the Malwarebytes Support Tool as outlined in steps one to five of the fourth resolution.
  • Select Advanced on the left of the Malwarebytes Support Tool window.
  • Click Clean and Yes to confirm the removal.
  • Select OK to restart the PC.
  • Click Yes in the window that pops up after the restart.
  • Select Yes in the Reinstall Malwarebytes for Windows popup dialog box that opens.
  • Click the Personal Computer option.
  • Finally, select Yes to reinstall Malwarebytes.

    • 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 the Malwarebytes help service if more troubleshooting suggestions for this error are required.

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