how to run a .exe as a service?

Hi CAustin81,

**Step 1:**I would suggest you to add the .exe file to the startup folder so that you can run the program automatically when Windows starts.

Programs or shortcuts placed in the Startup folder will run wheneverWindows starts.

1.    Click theStart button, click All Programs, right-click the Startup folder, and then click Open.

2.    Open the location that contains the item you want to create a shortcut to.

3.    Right-click the item, and then clickCreate Shortcut. The new shortcut appears in the same location as the original item.

4.    Drag the shortcut into the Startup folder.

The next time you startWindows, the program will run automatically.

Refer this link for more information:

Run a program automatically whenWindows starts

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Run-a-program-automatically-when-Windows-starts

**Step 2:**Additionally you may refer the following article and check if it helps you.

How to: Create Windows Services 

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/9k985bc9%28VS.80%29.aspx

Your Windows 7 question is more complex than what is typically answered in the Microsoft Answers forums as it is related to creating Windows Services. It is better suited in the Visual Basic Forums on MSDN.

Please post your question in the MSDN Forums by visiting the following link:

http://social.msdn.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/vbgeneral/threads

Regards,

Divya R – Microsoft Support.