How to fix “The name is already in use as either a service name or a service display name. [ERROR_DUPLICATE_SERVICE_NAME (0x436)]” – Error Code 1078


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Error Code 1078

Error code Error Code 1078 is a common Windows issue that typically arises from “The name is already in use as either a service name or a service display name. [ERROR_DUPLICATE_SERVICE_NAME (0x436)]”.

Overview

This article provides comprehensive steps to resolve the issue with the error code “Error Code 1078” in Windows, which indicates that the name is already in use as a service name or a service display name. We will guide you through identifying the problem, applying common fixes, and exploring advanced troubleshooting techniques. By following these solutions, you can effectively fix this error and restore your system to optimal performance.

Identifying the Problem

Error Code 1078, also known as “ERROR_DUPLICATE_SERVICE_NAME,” typically occurs when a service is registered with a name that is already in use. This can happen during software installation or when multiple services attempt to use the same name. The error message may appear in various scenarios, including:

  • When trying to install or start a service
  • When using Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) to manage services
  • When performing system diagnostics and repairs

Common Fixes

To fix Error Code 1078, try the following common solutions:

  1. Rename the Service:
  2. Open the Services Manager (services.msc)
  3. Locate the service that is causing the error
  4. Right-click on the service and select “Properties”
  5. In the “Service Name” field, enter a new name that is not already in use
  6. Click “OK” to save the changes

  7. Restart the service

  8. Use a Different Service Name:

  9. When installing a new service, choose a name that is not already in use
  10. You can use the Services Manager to check for existing service names

  11. Ensure that the service name is unique and does not conflict with any other installed services

  12. Restart the Server:

  13. In some cases, restarting the server can resolve the error
  14. This allows the operating system to clear its cache and reinitialize services, potentially resolving the duplicate service name issue

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the common fixes do not resolve the error, you can try the following advanced troubleshooting techniques:

  1. Check the Registry:
  2. Open the Registry Editor (regedit.exe)
  3. Navigate to the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services
  4. Examine the subkeys under the “Services” key to identify the service that is using the duplicate name

  5. Right-click on the subkey and select “Export” to create a backup of the registry key

  6. Modify the Service Name Registry Key:

  7. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the subkey for the service that is causing the error
  8. Find the “DisplayName” and “ServiceName” values
  9. Change the values to be unique and not conflicting with any other services

  10. Restart the server

  11. Use the SC Command:

  12. Open an elevated Command Prompt
  13. Use the following command to change the service name:
    • sc config start= auto displayName= “New Display Name”
  14. Replace “” with the actual service name and “” with the new display name

Conclusion

By following the solutions provided in this article, you can effectively fix Error Code 1078 and resolve the issue related to duplicate service names. To prevent this error from recurring, ensure that you use unique service names during installation and configuration. Additionally, regular system maintenance and software updates can help maintain a stable and error-free environment.