How to Run a Scheduled Task in Background or in Foreground.

On Windows, sometimes there is the need to start a specific application or to run a batch file in background or in foreground, by using the task scheduler. This tutorial contains step-by-step instructions on how to set a Windows scheduled task to run in the Background (hidden) or in the Foreground (visible).

How to Set a Scheduled Task to Run in the Background.

The way on how a scheduled task will run (hidden or visible), can be determined on the 'General' tab of the Scheduled Task's properties.

1. By default, when you create a new scheduled task, the task is set to Run only when user is logged on. As a result of that setting the scheduled task will run in the foreground.

2. If you want to run the scheduled task in background (hidden), then select the Run whether user is logged on or not option and click OK.

3. Then type the account password and click OK.

4. You 're done. *

* Note: If the scheduled task/program doesn't start in the background, after applying the above steps, then there is an optional way to run the scheduled task in the background, by using the SYSTEM account. But, keep in mind that running programs as SYSTEM is a potential security risk, because the SYSTEM account has full privileges on your machine and your data.

Anyway, if you want (for any reason) to start a scheduled program in the background by using the SYSTEM account, then at scheduled task's properties, apply the following steps/settings:

1. Click Change User or Group.

2. At 'Enter the object name' box, type system and click OK.

3. Click OK again and you done!

That's it! Let me know if this guide has helped you by leaving your comment about your experience. Please like and share this guide to help others.

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Konstantinos Tsoukalas

Konstantinos is the founder and administrator of Wintips.org. Since 1995 he works and provides IT support as a computer and network expert to individuals and large companies. He is specialized in solving problems related to Windows or other Microsoft products (Windows Server, Office, Microsoft 365, etc.).

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