How Can I Run GUI Applications from a Windows Service Reliably?

Running GUI Applications from a Windows Service

Developing a Windows service capable of executing GUI applications can be a perplexing task. Traditional methods such as using CreateProcess fall short when dealing with applications that require a graphical interface. This article provides a solution to this problem, leveraging techniques to locate the active desktop and execute GUI applications on it.

According to Roger Lipscombe, the recommended approach involves employing WTSEnumerateSessions to identify the active desktop and CreateProcessAsUser to launch the application on that desktop. However, it is crucial to exercise caution when implementing this solution.

Multiple users sharing Terminal Server hosts can introduce complexities in determining the appropriate active desktop. Additionally, randomly appearing applications on a user's desktop can be disruptive and potentially detrimental to user productivity.

To mitigate these concerns, a more reliable approach is to create a shortcut to a client application within the global startup group. This client application will accompany every user session and can be utilized to initiate other applications as required. This approach eliminates the need for manipulating user credentials, sessions, or desktops. Moreover, administrators can easily manage this shortcut through modification or disabling, streamlining application deployment and adhering to Windows application standards.

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