## Service Priority

UNIX administrators can alter the priority of a process by using the nice command. If the process is already started, the renice command can be used. Windows NT services typically have a preset priority that is stored in the registry. Altering it usually involves using one of the Registry Editors.

Windows NT services and programs running in kernel mode are unaffected by changing or attempting to change their priorities.

Note While service priorities cannot be altered, the priority of programs and processes running in user-mode can be. A program priority can be changed through the Process tab in Task Manager. There are also utilities in the Microsoft Windows NT Resource Kit, such as Pview and Pviewer, that can be used to alter the priority of user-mode processes and threads.

Windows NT Workstation is typically configured to run foreground tasks at a higher priority than background tasks, with Windows NT Server being the reverse. This reflects their role as a desktop workstation or as a file and printer server. If desired, you can alter this behavior slightly on either platform.

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Last Updated: December 1, 1997