I need to make a batch file run as a service instead of on screen. I have a web server that runs a live java program that leaves a dos window open and I can only lock the console. if I could run the batch as a service then it could be logged off and logged on by other users.

You need srvany.exe from the resource kit. This may not work if the program opens any windows. From a command prompt type: INSTSRV MyJavaService c:\Program Files\Resource Kit\srvany.exe Add any directories from which dll's will be loaded to the system path Modify Registry to add Parameters needed for your program Start>Run>REGEDT32 Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services You should see the MyJavaService service that you added Click one of the services to select it, then click Edit>Add Key and enter: Parameters Click Parameters to select it, then click Edit>Add Value In the Value Name box type Application In the String box type d:\path\ToMyProgram\MyProgram.exe Click Parameters to select it, then click Edit>Add Value In the Value Name box type AppParameters In the String box type /switch=option Click Parameters to select it, then click Edit>Add Value In the Value Name box type AppDirectory In the String box type d:\path\ToMyProgram\