Remote Desktop Configuration (SessionEnv) Service Defaults in Windows 8

Remote Desktop Configuration service (RDCS) is responsible for all Remote Desktop Services and Remote Desktop related configuration and session maintenance activities that require SYSTEM context. These include per-session temporary folders, RD themes, and RD certificates.

Default Settings

Startup type: Manual
Display name:Remote Desktop Configuration
Service name:SessionEnv
Service type:share
Error control:normal
Object:localSystem
Path:%SystemRoot%\System32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs
File:%SystemRoot%\system32\sessenv.dll
Registry key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\SessionEnv
Privileges:
  • SeBackupPrivilege
  • SeRestorePrivilege
  • SeTakeOwnershipPrivilege
  • SeImpersonatePrivilege
  • SeTcbPrivilege
  • SeAssignPrimaryTokenPrivilege
  • SeManageVolumePrivilege
  • SeCreateSymbolicLinkPrivilege

Default Behavior

Remote Desktop Configuration is a Win32 service. In Windows 8 it will not be started until the user starts it. When the Remote Desktop Configuration service is started, it runs as localSystem in a process of svchost.exe, sharing it with other services. If Remote Desktop Configuration 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 SessionEnv service hasn't been started.

Dependencies

Remote Desktop Configuration can't start, if any service from the list below is disabled or not available:

Restore Default Startup Configuration of Remote Desktop Configuration

Before you begin doing this, make sure that all the services on which Remote Desktop Configuration 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 SessionEnv start= demand

3. Close the command window and restart the computer.

The SessionEnv service is using the sessenv.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.