"failed to execute script mspm-source" typically occurs when a standalone Windows executable (often built with PyInstaller
) cannot find its internal source code or external dependencies at runtime.
While "mspm-source" is not a standard Windows system file, it often refers to a custom script used in MSP (Managed Service Provider) automation tools or specialized software like CADMATIC's Script Project Manager
Below is a structured guide to troubleshooting this error, formatted as a blog post for easy reference.
Blog Post: Fixing the "Failed to Execute Script mspm-source" Error
Seeing a "Fatal Error: Failed to execute script" pop-up is a common headache for Windows users and developers alike. If your error specifically points to mspm-source , follow these steps to get your application running again. 1. Run as Administrator
Many automation scripts (MSP-related) fail because they lack the permissions to access system directories or registry keys. : Right-click the file and select Run as Administrator 2. Update Your PowerShell Execution Policy mspm-source failed to execute script mspm-source
script is part of a PowerShell-based automation tool, Windows might be blocking it for security. Open PowerShell as an Administrator. Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned to confirm. 3. Check for Missing Data Files (PyInstaller Issue)
If this error appears after you "froze" a Python script into an , the application might be looking for a file (like a config or an image) that wasn't included in the build. Re-run the application from a Command Prompt (CMD) to see the full traceback.
If it says "File Not Found," ensure all required source folders are in the same directory as your 4. Clear Your Temporary Files
Corrupted temporary files can prevent scripts from extracting and executing properly. , and hit Enter.
Delete all files in this folder (skip any currently in use). Restart your computer. 5. Reinstall or Update the Software
This error often follows a Windows Update that breaks compatibility with specific application versions. "failed to execute script mspm-source" typically occurs when
Pyinstaller Error "failed to execute script " When App Clicked 21 Nov 2016 —
The error message "Failed to execute script mspm-source" typically appears on Windows startup and is strongly associated with malware residue or an improperly removed PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program).
While the "Failed to execute script" dialog is a common PyInstaller error, the specific "mspm-source" file is often identified by security researchers as a script used by crypto-miners or adware that attempts to re-execute every time you log in. The error occurs because your antivirus software has likely deleted the malicious file, but the "startup trigger" (registry key or scheduled task) remains. 🛠️ Step-by-Step Fix (Full Write-Up) 1. Remove the Startup Trigger using Autoruns
This is the most effective way to stop the error by deleting the link that tells Windows to run the missing script. Download the official Microsoft Autoruns tool. Extract the ZIP and run Autoruns64.exe as Administrator. Wait for the "Ready" status at the bottom. In the Filter/Search box at the top, type mspm-source.
If you see any entries highlighted in yellow (meaning "File Not Found") or specifically mentioning mspm-source, right-click them and select Delete. Restart your computer to verify the error is gone. 2. Scan for Deep Malware Residue
Even if the script is missing, the installer that put it there might still be active in your system's temporary folders. Solution: Add the entire folder containing mspm-source
Run a full scan with the Microsoft Safety Scanner to ensure no other malicious processes are running.
Clear your Temp folder: Press Win + R, type %temp%, and delete all files in that folder. 3. Check Task Scheduler
Sometimes the script is triggered by a timed task rather than a login entry. Open the Start Menu and search for Task Scheduler.
Look through the "Task Scheduler Library" for any unusual names like mspm, update-sys, or source-runner. If found, right-click and Disable or Delete them. 💡 Why did this happen?
If the executable runs successfully after disabling your antivirus (temporarily):
mspm-source.exe to your antivirus exclusion list. For Windows Defender:
After fixing the error, take these preventive steps:
shell:startup and Task Manager > Startup to remove orphaned entries.Your script might reference configuration files, images, or models. PyInstaller doesn’t automatically include these. Use the --add-data flag:
pyinstaller --onefile --add-data "config.json;." mspm-source.py
(On Windows, use ; as the separator; on Linux/macOS, use :)