How to Keep the SQL Server Agent Windows Service Running 24/7 with Service Protector
Add a persistent watchdog that automatically restarts the SQL Server Agent whenever it stops for any reason. Survive interruptions and ensure that your database jobs always run on schedule
Last Updated on September 15, 2026
SQL Server is Microsoft's widely popular commercial relational database.
The SQL Server Agent component is responsible for running scheduled jobs and performing automated administrative tasks in the background.
It's deployed as a Windows Service named SQLSERVERAGENT, with display name SQL Server Agent (MSSQLSERVER):
To monitor the SQL Server Agent Windows Service with Service Protector:
Download
install, and configure SQL Server, if necessary.
Select Protector > Add to open the Add Protector window:
On the General tab, in the Windows Service to protect field, choose SQL Server Agent (MSSQLSERVER).
You'll notice a green circle on the left if the service is already running, as was the case on our server.
Click the Save button. In a few seconds, an entry for the Agent will appear in the Service Protector window.
The green shield indicates that SQLSERVERAGENT is fully monitored by Service Protector:
That's it! Next time your computer boots, the SQL Server Agent will start automatically and Service Protector will constantly monitor it.
If the service stops for any reason, Service Protector will jump in and quickly restart it.
We encourage you to edit the entry in Service Protector and check out the many other settings that may be appropriate for your environment.
For example, send an email when the service stops, restart the service at a safe time every day, and much more.
Trouble protecting the SQL Server Agent Windows Service?
From Service Protector, select Protector > Report Activity > Today to bring up an HTML report detailing the interaction between Service Protector and SQL Server Agent.
Browse the Service Protector FAQ for answers to commonly asked questions and troubleshooting tips.
