Win2003 Schedule job to run as service account

task-schedulerwindows-server-2003

I need to schedule a "net stop" and "net start" action on Win2003 Server so our backups can run properly. I can use the windows scheduler, but that that requires me to enter login credentials. I fear the risk that the scheduler stops working if I change my password. Can I get this to run as Network Service instead?

Best Answer

I don't think you can run a scheduled task as the built-in "Network Service" account, but you can definitely run it using the "System" account. In the task's "Run as" box, type "system" without the quotes, and accept a blank password when prompted. If done correctly you should see "NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM" listed in the "Run as" box when you view the task's properties.