KB18160: MicroStrategy License Manager and Service Manager fail to launch the graphical interface, but the services are running

SYMPTOM:
When a user tries to run the Strategy License Manager or Strategy Service Manager, the programs fail to launch. However, if the user goes to the Task Manager, he/she will notice that these programs as well as the javaw.exe process are running. The graphical interface is not launched.
CAUSE:
One likely cause is that the DDRAW.dll is unavailable or was not registered correctly. DDRAW is a system dll and is required for Windows to operate. It is used to render graphics in applications.
 
ACTION:
Unregister and then re-register the DDRAW.dll as described below:

1. Open a command prompt session by executing 'cmd.exe.' To do this, click on the Windows Start button, select the Run option, and click OK.
2. Use the command prompt to navigate to the directory where the file to be registered/unregistered resides.
3. Once there, use the following syntax:
    
   
• To unregister the file:
  regsvr32 /u ddraw.dll
  
• To unregister a file:
  regsvr32 ddraw.dll
  

WARNING:
Modifying registry values incorrectly may cause serious, system-wide problems that may require the re-installation of Microsoft Windows. Any edit of the registry is done at the user's own risk. Since these are user-initiated changes, they are not covered by any Strategy warranty. If using Microsoft Windows, the user should backup the registry and/ or update an Emergency Repair Disk prior to alterations.