www.BlackViper.com: Windows Vista Service Pack 2 Services 411 - Protected Storage

Protected Storage

Default Description:

Provides protected storage for sensitive data, such as passwords, to prevent access by unauthorized services, processes, or users.

Additional Information:

Allows for the saving of local passwords or even web sites information (AutoComplete). This service is set to Automatic by default. Due to security reasons, I recommend leaving this "feature" disabled to make things all that much more difficult to steal vital information if you do not "save" it (even though in my "safe" configurations it is left on the default value for the following reason). On the other hand, you may need this service to manage private keys for encryption purposes. If so, leave this service on automatic to ensure the "higher" security settings you choose work. If you disable this service, you will no longer have any of your passwords saved, no matter how many times you click the box. If you enjoy having your passwords saved in applications like Outlook or Dial up networking or you are connecting to the internet via a domain controller/server that requires authentication, set this service to Automatic.

Additional Reading:

None at this time.

Discussion Topic Link:

Windows Vista Services Forum

Defaults Startup Type:

Default Vista Home Basic: Manual
Default Vista Home Premium: Manual
Default Vista Business: Manual
Default Vista Ultimate: Manual

Other Settings:

Safe Setting: Manual

Service Names:

Service Name (registry): ProtectedStorage

Display Name: Protected Storage

Default Path and Command Line Options:

C:\Windows\system32\lsass.exe

Log On As:

Account: Local System account

Dependencies:

What service Protected Storage needs to function properly:

• Remote Procedure Call (RPC) (HB, HP, B, U)
  • DCOM Server Process Launcher (HB, HP, B, U)

What other service require Protected Storage to function properly:

• None (HB, HP, B, U)