File History Service (fhsvc) Defaults in Windows 8

Protects user files from accidental loss by copying them to a backup location.

Default Settings

Startup type: Manual
Display name:File History Service
Service name:fhsvc
Service type:share
Error control:normal
Object:LocalSystem
Path:%SystemRoot%\system32\svchost.exe -k LocalSystemNetworkRestricted
File:%SystemRoot%\system32\fhsvc.dll
Registry key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\fhsvc
Privileges:
  • SeBackupPrivilege
  • SeImpersonatePrivilege
  • SeTcbPrivilege

Default Behavior

File History Service is a Win32 service. In Windows 8 it will not be started until the user starts it. When the File History Service is started, it runs as LocalSystem in a process of svchost.exe, sharing it with other services. If File History Service 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 fhsvc service hasn't been started.

Dependencies

File History Service can't start, if the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service is disabled or not available.

Restore Default Startup Configuration of File History Service

Before you begin doing this, make sure that all the services on which File History Service depends are configured by default and function properly. See the list of dependencies above.

1. Run the Command Prompt as an administrator.

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

sc config fhsvc start= demand

3. Close the command window and restart the computer.

The fhsvc service is using the fhsvc.dll file that is located in the C:\Windows\system32 directory. If the file is removed or corrupted, read this article to restore its original version from Windows 8 installation media.