AdUnhappy5308 shares details about a new C# tool that runs any app as a Windows service, highlighting its capabilities and differences from NSSM.

Overview

AdUnhappy5308 presents a new open-source tool written in C# that enables users to turn any application into a Windows service. This tool is positioned as a fully managed alternative to the widely used NSSM (Non-Sucking Service Manager), and it is designed to work across Windows 7–11 and Windows Server environments.

Key Features

  • Service Customization: Set the service name, description, and startup type (Automatic, Manual, Disabled).
  • Custom Executable Path: Specify any executable to be run as a service.
  • Working Directory Support: Unlike the default Windows service behavior, this tool allows you to define the working directory for the launched application, solving a long-standing limitation where Windows services default to C:\Windows\System32.
  • Custom Parameters: Pass launch parameters to the underlying executable.

Technical Approach

The main technical challenge addressed was setting the working directory for the service’s process. By default, Windows services don’t provide a way to adjust this. The solution involves a C# wrapper service that accepts the executable path, target working directory, and parameters, then launches the real process in the correct context as a child process. This method is similar to how NSSM operates but is implemented entirely in managed C# code.

Compatibility

  • Supported OS: Windows 7–11, Windows Server

Repository and Feedback

Usage Example

Suppose you have a custom application that needs to run as a background service, but requires a specific working directory or custom startup arguments. With this tool, you can configure all relevant parameters through a managed interface, bypassing the need for third-party native utilities.

Comparison to NSSM

  • Both tools allow non-service executables to run as windows services.
  • The main distinction is that this new tool is fully managed, making it easier to inspect, extend, or integrate into .NET-focused environments.

Community

This open-source C# utility may prove beneficial for developers or administrators looking to manage legacy or non-service applications as Windows services in a modern, .NET-aligned way.

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