CNG Hardware Assist algorithm provider (cnghwassist) Service Defaults in Windows 8

CNG Hardware Assist algorithm provider.

Default Settings

Startup type: Disabled
Display name:CNG Hardware Assist algorithm provider
Service name:cnghwassist
Service type:kernel
Error control:normal
Group:Base
Path:%SystemRoot%\System32\DRIVERS\cnghwassist.sys
Registry key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\cnghwassist

Default Behavior

The CNG Hardware Assist algorithm provider service is a kernel device driver. In Windows 8 it is disabled and therefore it won't start under any conditions. If CNG Hardware Assist algorithm provider fails to start, the error details are added to Windows 8 error log. When the operating system startup is complete, the user is being notified that the cnghwassist service hasn't been started.

Restore Default Startup Configuration of CNG Hardware Assist algorithm provider

1. Run the Command Prompt as an administrator.

2. Copy the commands below, paste them into the command window and press ENTER:

sc stop cnghwassist
sc config cnghwassist start= disabled

3. Close the command window and restart the computer.

The cnghwassist service is using the cnghwassist.sys file that is located in the C:\Windows\System32\DRIVERS directory. If the file is removed or corrupted, read this article to restore its original version from Windows 8 installation media.