Wait Type PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANGE

Wait statistics, in the context of SQL Server, refer to the amount of time that a query spends waiting to access data in the database. When a client application requests data from the database, the request is placed in a queue and the client application must wait for its turn to access the data. The time that the query spends waiting is called a "wait" and is tracked by SQL Server. This information can be used to identify potential performance bottlenecks and optimize the performance of the database. Wait statistics are commonly used by database administrators to diagnose and troubleshoot performance issues in SQL Server.

SQL Server uses wait types to identify where processes may encounter delays. One such wait type, PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE, is associated with SQL Server’s interaction with the operating system for managing Windows services. This wait occurs when SQL Server makes a request to the Windows Service Control Manager (SCM) and must wait for the operating system to respond. Understanding this wait type is crucial for maintaining smooth operations, especially in environments where SQL Server interacts heavily with external services.

What Is the PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE Wait Type?

The PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE wait type appears when SQL Server interacts with the Windows Service Control Manager to start, stop, or query the status of a service. Because these operations happen outside SQL Server’s control, they are handled in preemptive mode, where SQL Server yields the CPU to allow the operating system to complete the task.

This wait type is common in systems with SQL Server Agent jobs or external integrations that rely on Windows services.

When Does PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE Appear?

This wait type is typically seen in the following scenarios:

• Starting or Stopping SQL Server Agent – When the SQL Server Agent service is being managed.
• External Task Execution – When SQL Server invokes tasks or jobs that depend on Windows services.
• Service Configuration Updates – During operations that modify service settings, such as enabling or disabling specific features.
• High System Load – When the operating system is under significant load, service control operations may take longer to complete.

Why PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE Waits Matter

While some PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE waits are expected in environments with frequent service interactions, excessive waits can indicate potential issues. Common causes include:

• Slow Operating System Response – High CPU or memory usage on the server may slow down service management tasks.
• Service Dependencies – Services that depend on other processes may experience delays during startup or shutdown.
• Resource Bottlenecks – Limited system resources can increase the time required for service control operations.
• Frequent Service Operations – Repeated or unnecessary requests to the SCM can lead to cumulative delays.

How to Address PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE Waits

If this wait type is causing delays or impacting performance, consider the following strategies:

• Optimize System Resources – Ensure adequate CPU, memory, and disk resources are available to handle both SQL Server and operating system tasks.
• Streamline Service Requests – Minimize the number of service control operations by avoiding redundant or unnecessary starts and stops.
• Validate Service Dependencies – Check for and address dependency-related delays to ensure smooth service operations.
• Monitor Operating System Load – Use tools like Task Manager or Performance Monitor to track and address high system load during critical operations.
• Schedule Service Operations – Perform service-related tasks during off-peak hours to minimize contention and delays.

Monitoring PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE Waits

To track this wait type, use SQL Server’s sys.dm_os_wait_stats to analyze occurrences and durations. Additionally, examine active requests in sys.dm_exec_requests to pinpoint tasks experiencing these waits. Tools like Database Health Monitor provide comprehensive insights into wait statistics, making it easier to identify bottlenecks and optimize performance.

Stedman Solutions offers expert SQL Server performance tuning and managed services to help you address issues like PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANAGE waits and optimize your environment. Our Database Health Monitor tool delivers real-time analysis of wait types and system health, while our managed services ensure your SQL Server runs smoothly and efficiently. Contact us today to learn how we can help enhance your SQL Server performance.

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Applies to

• SQL Server 2019
• SQL Server 2022

Related Waits

See Also

• More About PREEMPTIVE_SERVICE_CONTROL_MANGE