CNG Key Isolation (KeyIso) Service Defaults in Windows 8
The CNG key isolation service is hosted in the LSA process. The service provides key process isolation to private keys and associated cryptographic operations as required by the Common Criteria. The service stores and uses long-lived keys in a secure process complying with Common Criteria requirements.
Default Settings
| Startup type: | Manual |
| Display name: | CNG Key Isolation |
| Service name: | KeyIso |
| Service type: | share |
| Error control: | normal |
| Object: | LocalSystem |
| Path: | %SystemRoot%\system32\lsass.exe |
| File: | %SystemRoot%\system32\keyiso.dll |
| Registry key: | HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\KeyIso |
Default Behavior
CNG Key Isolation is a Win32 service. In Windows 8 it will not be started until the user starts it. When the CNG Key Isolation service is started, it runs as LocalSystem in a process of lsass.exe, sharing it with other services. If CNG Key Isolation 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 KeyIso service hasn't been started.
Dependencies
CNG Key Isolation can't start, if the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service is disabled or not available.
All the services listed below will not start if CNG Key Isolation is disabled:
Restore Default Startup Configuration of CNG Key Isolation
Before you begin doing this, make sure that all the services on which CNG Key Isolation 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 KeyIso start= demand
3. Close the command window and restart the computer.
The KeyIso service is using the keyiso.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.