[Windows Client] System Service Is Not Running

Last updated: April 3, 2026

Applicable to:
  • Twingate Component: Client
  • Platform: Windows

Overview

The Twingate Windows Client relies on a the Windows Twingate Service component. If the Twingate Windows Service is not started and running, the Windows Client will fail to establish connectivity.

Symptoms

  • The Windows Client does not connect.
  • The Windows Client has a popup with the error message below:

    twingate_could_not_connect.png
    Twingate Could Not Connect

    The Twingate system service is not running. To connect, restart the Twingate system service or contact your admin.

Troubleshooting

  1. Hold down the Windows Key and Press R on your keyboard.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. Scroll down in the services list to Twingate Service.
  4. If status is null or not running, proceed to resolution.
  5. If service is running and set to Automatic perform the below:
    1. Restart service and ensure it start.
    2. Restart the Twingate Client application.
    3. Try to connect to the Twingate network again.
  6. If the service fails to start perform the below:
    1. Check to see if Twingate TAP network adapter is present and not disabled.
    2. Collect detailed logs and open a ticket with Twingate Support for further review.

Resolution

Start the Twingate Windows Service and ensure it is set to automatic startup via the below steps.

  • Hold down the Windows Key and Press R on your keyboard.
  • Type services.msc and press Enter.
  • Scroll down to the Twingate Service rc.
  • Right click on Twingate Service rc > Start.
  • Right click on Twingate Service rc > Click on Properties > set Startup Type to Automatic.