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Windows XP Service Configuration:

Introduction

For the most part, Microsoft took 3 years to create a "default" configuration for Windows XP Services that took me only one month to test and post on July 28, 2001. Several services that I previously recommended to be disabled are either gone or disabled by default after the installation of Service Pack 2.

An * (asterisk) indicates changes from Service Pack 1a to Service Pack 2.

Notes for a Happier Computer and User

• Do NOT use "msconfig" to disable services, type "services.msc" in the Run box instead! (WHY?)
• Before disabling ANY service, check out the service information about each by selecting the service name links provided.
• Service settings are global, meaning changes apply to all users.
• An "*" (asterisk) indicates changes from Service Pack 1a to Service Pack 2.
• Additional recommended configuration settings besides "Safe" is located on the Windows XP Services Configuration page.
• For an easy method of creating multiple Service Configurations, please check out the Windows XP Services Profile Guide.
• All of these services are "Standard" with Windows XP after the installation of Service Pack 2. If you discover something other than these listed here running, another program installed them. View a listing of the more common ones.
• Still unsure? Put your setting to "manual" or the listing under "Safe." Manual allows Windows XP to start the service when it needs to (or when ever it feels like it), but not at boot up. Depending on your configuration, not all services will start when required while in "Manual" mode. If you find you need a service, place it in Automatic.
• After adjusting your service settings, reboot your computer.
• If you do not have some of these services listed, do not panic! If your computer manufacture "pre-installed" your XP, they choose not to have certain services installed for you. This is, in most cases, a fact with OEM versions of Windows XP Home.
• Before E-Mailing me, see if your question has been addressed in the FAQ!
• More items about how to speed up your system can be found on the Windows XP Super Tweaks Page!
• Disabling all of the "unneeded services" frees up 12-70 MB of RAM, depending on system.
• Do you mean that out of 87 (Home), 96 (Pro) services, 32 (Home), 34 (Pro) are set to Automatic as DEFAULT, but, we MAY only need 6 running?!? YES.
• Viewing Instructions: If the information is hard to read, please check out your viewing options.
• Printable Version: A printable version will be posted as soon as all information is updated.

Configuration Information

• DEFAULT Home ~ What Bill G. thinks should be running on Windows XP Home.
• DEFAULT Pro ~ What Bill G. thinks should be running on Windows XP Professional.
• "SAFE" Configuration ~ This is the configuration that 95% of the people will be able to use with little or no side effects. It will also minimizes the amount of "errors" that is reported in the Event Viewer. This does not guarantee it will work for you, but if adjusting your services scares you, this configuration would be a good starting point.
• Dependencies ~ Describes what other services this service needs to run as reported in the services.msc control panel.
• Automatic ~ With a service in this state, it will start at boot time. Some services, when no longer required, will also automatically stop when not needed. However, this is very rare. If you find you do not need a service, place it into Manual or Disabled.
• Manual ~ Manual mode allows Windows to start a service when needed. However, very few services will start up when required in Manual mode. If you find you need a service, place it into Automatic.
• Disabled ~ This setting will stop a service from starting, even if needed. Errors in the Event Viewer will show up complaining of that fact. Some services, while Disabled, will constantly complain. However, this situation is taken care of if placed in Manual. The service descriptions identifies those that should be in Manual vice Disabled.

This information was originally created and belongs to Black Viper (Dead link, obviously). We have reproduced it, in large part until the original website returns, if ever.

1. Do not use msconfig to disable services. Type in the Run box "services.msc" instead!
2. Before disabling ANY service, check out the information listed about each service by clicking on the name.
3. Only disable a few services at a time to avoid changing "50" settings and trying to figure out "what broke it."
4. Still unsure? Put your setting to "manual" or the listing under "Safe." Manual allows Windows XP to start the service when it needs to (or when ever it feels like it,) but not at boot up. NOTE: Depending on your configuration, not all services will start when required while in Manual mode. If you find you need a service, place it in Auto.
5. After adjusting your service settings, reboot your computer.
6. If you do not have some of these services listed, don't panic! If your computer manufacture "pre-installed" your XP, they choose not to have certain services installed for you.

Notes

• Display Name ~ Is how it is displayed in the Services Control Panel
• Service Name ~ Is what the service is called, usually the "short" name
• Process Name ~ Name of the Process running in the background (displayed in Task Manager by hitting Ctrl+Alt+Del)
• Dependencies ~ What other services this service needs to run
• Need it? ~ From what I have concluded by trial and error and also the services that I have found pointless.
• MINE ~ My configuration & recommended to start.  Cross between Gaming (Power User) & Safe configuration.
• DEFAULT Pro ~ What Microsoft thinks should be running on Windows XP Professional.
• "SAFE" Configuration ~ This is the configuration that 95% of the people will be able to use with little side effects. It will also minimizes the amount of "errors" that is reported in the Event Viewer. This does NOT guarantee it will work for you, but if you are scared, this configuration should be a good starting point.
• Internet Gateway Configuration ~ Setup to allow multiple computers on a network to share one internet connection access point using Microsoft's "Internet Connection Sharing and Personal Firewall" software. If you do not have this type of setup, compare the differences between "SAFE" and "GAMING" to find a middle ground that works for your system.
• Gaming Configuration ~ The power user setup. DO NOT JUMP RIGHT TO THIS CONFIGURATION. This setup is a system that connects through a network to the internet, provides file and print sharing resources and gaming enjoyment. Some things MAY not function with this setup. No passwords are saved. It is not intended for a computer with analog modems or some DSL/cable connections. Try "Internet Gateway" Configuration first.

• Alerter ~ Notifies users of administrative alerts. Usually not required under normal circumstances. Note: This is NOT "WinPopUp."
  • Dependencies:
    • Workstation
• Application Layer Gateway Service ~ Provides support for 3rd party plug-ins for Internet Connection Sharing/Internet Connection Firewall. Required if using Internet Connection Sharing/Internet Connection Firewall to connect to the internet. This uses about 1.5 MB of memory in an idle state.

• Application Management ~ Used for Assign, Publish and Remove software services. If you cannot modify your software installation of certain applications, put this service in to Automatic or Manual.

• Automatic Updates ~ Used to check up to see if there is any critical or otherwise updates available for download. Requires Cryptographic Services to be running. Place this service in to Automatic if you do not wish to update manually.

• Background Intelligent Transfer Service ~ Used to transfer asynchronous data via http1.1 servers. According to M$'s site, Windows Update uses this "feature." It "continues" a download if you log off or shutdown the system (that is, when you log back in.) Take note: Manual update via Windows Update web site Requires Cryptographic Services to be running.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • Workstation
• ClipBook ~ Used to store information (cut/paste) and share it with other computers. This service alone uses about 1.3 MB of memory.
  • Dependencies:
    • Network DDE
• COM+ Event System ~ You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry from "DCOM" complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. I am unaware of any application that uses COM+, but if set to Manual, many services report to it, so it will start anyway. Required for System Event Notification. For the fun of it, head to
  "C:\Program Files\ComPlus Applications"
  on your system and see if any "COM+" Applications are installed. If not, you can probably disable this service with no side effects (besides the Event Log complaining upon reboots.) Take note: BootVis Requires Task Scheduler and COM+ Event System to be running if you wish to take advantage of the "optimize system" function. Pre-fetching only occurs on boot up, so if you do not care about a few extra seconds of boot time, do not even bother with it and disable Task Scheduler. Windows Media Player may also require this service for some "features" to function. I recommend Disabled for super tweaking, Automatic for "safe" and most other configurations.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• COM+ System Application ~ You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry from "DCOM" complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. I am unaware of any application that uses COM+, but if set to Manual, many services report to it, so it will start anyway. For the fun of it, head to:
  "C:\Program Files\ComPlus Applications"
  on your system and see if any "COM+" Applications are installed. If not, you can probably disable this service with no side effects (besides the Event Log complaining upon reboots.) Required for System Event Notification.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Computer Browser ~ Maintains a listing of computers and resources located on the network. This service is not needed on a standalone system.
  • Dependencies:
    • Server
    • Workstation
• Cryptographic Services ~ Mainly, it confirms signatures of Windows files. You may always get a dialog box complaining about uncertified drivers if this is disabled. Required for Windows Update to function in manual and automatic mode. Windows Media Player may also require this service for some "features" to function. This service uses about 1.9 MB of memory.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• DHCP Client ~ Receives a Dynamic IP address from your DHCP server. Required for ICS/internet client and also if you run IPSEC, disable on a standalone system or one that has a static IP address. Take note: Most DSL/cable providers use DHCP to provide internet access. If you disable this service and your internet no longer works, place this back into automatic.
  • Dependencies:
    • AFD Networking Support Environment
    • NetBios over TCP/IP
    • TCP/IP Protocol Driver
• Distributed Link Tracking Client ~ Maintains links with NTFS files within your computer or across a domain. Even though this is rather valuable on a large network, I have not found a use for this service. It uses about 3.5 MB to 4 MB in an idle state.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Distributed Transaction Coordinator ~ Takes care of transactions that span multiple resources. Required if using Message Queuing. You may also see complaints in the Event Log if this service is disabled, but I have experienced no side effects.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • Security Accounts Manager
• DNS Client ~ Resolves and caches DNS names and Active Directory domain controller functions. This service is not needed, but if it makes you happy to have it running, go ahead. Required if using IPSEC. If you attempt to "repair" your network connection and a dialog box complains that the "DNS resolver failed to flush the cache," this service is the reason.
  • Dependencies:
    • TCP/IP Protocol Driver
• Error Reporting Service ~ Calls home to Micro$oft when application errors occurs. A waste of memory and resources. You can do it if you wish.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Event Log ~ Allows Event Log messages from applications to be viewed in Event Viewer. Always helpful to check out the Event Log to see what problems with applications are popping up that is "hidden" from the normal user. Before tweaking your services, you may consider clearing the Event Log to quickly see what, if anything, has resulted in your adjustments. Windows Management Instrumentation also Requires Event Log Service to be running. If you disable the Event Log Service, but do not disable Windows Management Instrumentation, your computer may have an extended boot time while Windows Management Instrumentation is waiting for the Event Log to start. It is just best to keep this service active.

• Fast User Switching Compatibility ~ Unless you have many users on a system, you probably do not even need this service to be running. You could, however, benefit greatly if you use this service in conjunction with Remote Desktop.
  • Dependencies:
    • Terminal Services
• Fax Service ~ Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD.
  • Dependencies:
    • Plug and Play
    • Print Spooler
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • Telephony
• FTP Publishing Service ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Not installed by default on Windows XP Pro, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Used to provide a FTP server on your network.
  • Dependencies:
    • IIS Admin
• Help and Support ~ Required for Micro$ofts online help documents. If you ever "attempt" to use Help and Support, this service will be placed back into "Automatic" even if you already placed this service on Disabled.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Human Interface Device Access ~ I have no peripherals that require this service. If one of yours magically does not function anymore, set it to Automatic. Namely, scanners with function buttons (fax, copy) or even a keyboard with volume or play controls.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• IIS Admin ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Not installed by default on Windows XP Pro, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Usually used in conjunction with local web site or FTP servers. Leave it uninstalled mainly because IIS has been "popular" for hackers to break.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • Security Accounts Manager
• IMAPI CD-Burning COM Service ~ Used for that cool "drag and drop" CD burn capability. You will need this service to burn CD's. If set to Manual, the service starts and stops itself when used with some software packages. Practically the only service that does do this! If you still cannot burn a CD with it on Manual, switch to Automatic and feel safe. My best guess is that this takes up about 1.6 MB of memory in an idle state.

• Indexing Service ~ This has always and forever been a major resource hog. I never recommend having this service enabled. Remove the function via the "Add/Remove Programs" icon in the control panel (Windows Setup Programs.) It uses about 500K to 2 MB in an idle state, not to mention the amount of memory it takes to actually INDEX the drives.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Internet Connection Firewall and Internet Connection Sharing ~ Used to allow multiple computers on your network to access the internet via only one account. This service is installed on the "modem" computer. If you are using a 3rd party firewall or Internet Connection Sharing software package, this service is not required.
  • Dependencies:
    • Application Layer Gateway Service
    • Network Connections
    • Network Location Awareness
    • Remote Access Connection Manager
• IPSEC Services ~ May be required on some domains, but the "average" user will not need this.
  • Dependencies:
    • IPSEC driver
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • TCP/IP Protocol Driver
• Logical Disk Manager ~ Vital to run the Disk Management MMC console for dynamic volumes. If you attempt to "Manage" your hard drives and a dialog box pops up complaining about not being able to do this, start this service. If you think I am being vague, I am. :)
  • Dependencies:
    • Plug and Play
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service ~ Vital to run the Disk Management MMC console for dynamic volumes.
  • Dependencies:
    • Logical Disk Manager
    • Plug and Play
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Message Queuing ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Not installed by default on Windows XP Pro, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. May be used on some domains, but the "average" home user will never need this service.
  • Dependencies:
    • Distributed Transaction Coordinator
    • Message Queuing access control
    • NT LM Security Support Provider
    • Reliable Multicast Protocol driver
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • Server
• Message Queuing Triggers ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Not installed by default on Windows XP Pro, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Required if you use Message Queuing service.
  • Dependencies:
    • Message Queuing
• Messenger ~ Sends messages between clients and servers. Not needed under normal "home" conditions. This has nothing to do with MSN Messenger, nor is it "WinPopUp."
  • Dependencies:
    • NetBIOS Interface
    • Plug and Play
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • Workstation
• MS Software Shadow Copy Provider ~ Used in conjunction with the Volume Shadow Copy Service. M$ Backup uses these services. You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. Some third party "ghost" or "imaging" software may require this service to be running.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Net Login ~ Used for logging onto a Domain Controller. View the "Proof" here:
  • Dependencies:
    • Workstation

• NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing ~ Enables a user to access your computer using NetMeeting. If you are paranoid about security, Disable this function. Even if you are not worried, I would still get rid of it.

• Network Connections ~ Required for managing network connectivity. Set to disabled if you have NO network or you do not toy with the configurations a lot. If your internet connectivity is effected after disabling this function, set it back to Automatic! Note: While disabling this service, you will no longer see the system tray icon (lower right) displayed, even for modem connections. Connectivity, however, still exists even on incoming shared network drives.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Network DDE ~ I have not found a good use for this service. Unless you use remote ClipBook, Disable it. This uses about 1.5 MB idle.
  • Dependencies:
    • Network DDE DSDM
• Network DDE DSDM ~ I have not found a good use for this service. Unless you use remote ClipBook, Disable it.
  • Dependencies:
    • AFD Networking Support Environment
    • TCP/IP Protocol Driver
• Network Location Awareness (NLA) ~ Required for use with the Internet Connection Sharing Service (server only.)

• NT LM Security Support Provider ~ Not needed unless you are running Message Queuing or Telnet server.

• Performance Logs and Alerts ~ Collects performance data on a schedule and sends the information to a log or triggers an alert. This may be a super geek tool, but I feel that the overhead associated with it is not worth the benefit. You decide.

• Plug and Play ~ The heart and soul of the Plug and Play environment. I do not recommend to disable this service, but if you want to, you are on your own. Take note: UPnP is NOT related to PnP. UPnP is used for connectivity on networks via TCP/IP to devices, such as scanners or printers. Your sound card is PnP. Do NOT Disable Plug and Play service.

• Portable Media Serial Number ~ Retrieves serial numbers from portable music players connected to your computer. I have not really found a good reason to keep this service always running. Disable it unless something of yours ceases to function properly.

• Print Spooler ~ Queues up print jobs for later printing. This service is Required if you have printers, even if they are network printers. If this does not fit your needs, Disable it. You will save about 3.8 MB by making this service go away. Take note: Your printers will still be "installed" if you disable this service, but not visible in the printers folder. After restarting Print Spooler, they will reappear and be available for use.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Protected Storage ~ Allows for the saving of local passwords or even web sites information (AutoComplete.) This service is set to Automatic by default. Due to security reasons, I recommend leaving this "feature" disabled to make things all that much more difficult to steal vital information if you do not "save" it. On the other hand, you may need this service to manage private keys for encryption purposes. If so, leave this service on automatic to ensure the "higher" security settings you choose work. If you disable this service, you will no longer have any of your passwords saved, no matter how many times you click the box. If you enjoy having your passwords saved in applications like Outlook or Dial up networking or you are connecting to the internet via a domain controller/server that requires authentication, set this service to Automatic.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• QoS RSVP ~ Provides traffic control on a network using IPSEC and applications that support QoS, plus have an adapter that supports it. The QoS Packet Driver is installed by default on any TCP/IP connections. I recommend uninstalling it if it is not needed on your network. As far as I can tell, you also need an ACS Server (Provided with Windows 2000 Server and Advanced Server) for the QoS Packet Scheduler and Applications to request the needed bandwidth. Since my network is not straining under any load, this is rather pointless. Take note: Some people (as I did before I completed extensive research on this) reported that QOS uses 20% of your bandwidth and does not allow any activity, regardless. This is false Regardless, if you uninstall the packet scheduler, there is no "bandwidth" that is still being used or reserved.
  • Dependencies:
    • AFD Networking Support Environment
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • TCP/IP Protocol Driver
• Remote Access Auto Connection Manager ~ Creates a connection to a network when a program requests a remote address. This service may be Required for your internet connection. If things cease to function after disabling this service, put it to Automatic. Note: you may require this service for some cable or DSL providers, depending on how they implement their logon process. If your Dial-up, cable or DSL internet access no longer functions properly with this service disabled, place this service into Automatic.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Access Connection Manager
    • Telephony
• Remote Access Connection Manager ~ Creates a network connection. This service is Required if you use Internet Connection Sharing. If things cease to function after disabling this service, put it to Automatic. Note: you may Require this service for some cable or DSL providers, depending on how they implement their logon process. If your Dial-up, cable or DSL internet access no longer functions properly with this service disabled, place this service into Automatic
  • Dependencies:
    • Telephony
• Remote Desktop Help Session Manager ~ Manages and controls Remote Assistance. If you do not want or need to use this feature, Disable it. In an idle state, this service sucks up 3.4 MB to 4 MB of RAM.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Remote Procedure Call (RPC) ~ This service is rather Vital. Just about everything depends on this service to be running. This is also the only service that you cannot disable via the Services MMC. Previously, if you disabled this service in Windows 2000, your computer would become unbootable. What I am trying to tell you is leave this service on Automatic.

• Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator ~ Manages the RPC name service database. I have not found a reason to keep this service running. If something on your network breaks after you disable this service, put it back to Manual. About 1.2 MB of RAM is consumed with this service.
  • Dependencies:
    • Workstation
• Remote Registry Service ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. This is one of those not needed services. One of the first I disable. If you are paranoid about security, disable this service. Even if you are not or do not care, disable it anyway.

• Removable Storage ~ Used for managing removable media. Disable this service if you do not have items like tape backup devices, etc. If your CD ROM/DVD Drive starts acting funny, (no auto play, etc) place this service into Automatic. Normally, this service is not needed and you will not miss any of its functionality.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• RIP Listener ~ Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. If you do not know what it is, you do not need it. :)
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Routing and Remote Access ~ Allows computers to dial in to the local computer through a modem (or other devices) to access the local network using a standard or VPN connection. Unless you require this functionality, disable it for security reasons. Upon enabling this service, "Incoming Connections" icon will be available in the "Network Connections" control panel.
  • Dependencies:
    • NetBIOSGroup
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Secondary Logon ~ Enables starting processes under alternate credentials. I have never found a reason to keep this service running. I have always considered "Alternate Credentials" someone other than ME! Not my idea of fun... Really, though, it allows a "limited user" account to start an application or process with higher privileges, such as the Administrator account or another user. If you right-click a file, the menu will display "Run As..." option. If you disable this service, that function will no longer be available.

• Security Accounts Manager ~ Like Protected Storage, it saves security information for local users. This service is Required for IIS Admin. If you have ever used the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) to modify your settings, you need to keep this service running, otherwise, your modifications will not be applied.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Server ~ Used for file and print sharing from your computer or if you use Message Queuing. Workstation is needed to connect to another computer that has the files you are looking for. For security purposes, you may Disable this service if you do not require local printers and files to be shared across your network. Connectivity, however, still exists even on incoming shared network drives.

• Shell Hardware Detection ~ Used for the auto play of devices like memory cards, some CD drives, etc. Also, set to Automatic if you are experiencing problems with laptop docking stations. In "My Computer," you may not see your hardware (example: DVD drive) displayed as a "DVD Drive" if this service is disabled. However, all functionality still exists.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP) ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Not installed by default on Windows XP Pro, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Supports the use of a local (outbound) email server.
  • Dependencies:
    • Event Log
    • IIS Admin
• Simple TCP/IP Services ~ Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Supports some old school UNIX networking services.
  • Dependencies:
    • AFD Networking Support Environment
• Smart Card ~ Supports the use of a Smart Card for local or network computer authentication. If you do not have a "Smart Card," or you do not know what a Smart Card is, you do not need this service running. Save the 1.1 MB to 1.4 MB of RAM this service uses.
  • Dependencies:
    • Plug and Play

• Smart Card Helper ~ Supports the use of a Smart Card for local or network computer authentication. If you do not have a "Smart Card," you do not need this service running.

• SNMP Service ~ Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Supports the use of networking equipment that use SNMP as a mode of management.
  • Dependencies:
    • Event Log
• SNMP Trap Service ~ Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. As above, this supports the use of networking equipment that use SNMP as a mode of management.
  • Dependencies:
    • Event Log
• SSDP Discovery Service ~ Used to locate UPnP devices on your home network. Used in conjunction with Universal Plug and Play Device Host, it detects and configures UPnP devices on your home network. For security reasons and also for the fact that I doubt that you have any of these devices, Disable this service. If any EXTERNAL device does not function as a result of this service being disabled, place it back in to Automatic. Also, if you are experiencing difficulty connecting to multiplayer games that use DirectX7(8), place this service to Automatic and ensure you download all security updates. Take note: UPnP is NOT related to PnP. UPnP is used for connectivity on networks via TCP/IP to devices, such as scanners or printers. Your sound card is PnP. Do NOT Disable Plug and Play service. I know that not even Micro$ofts own XBOX uses this UPnP Service...

• System Event Notification ~ Used in conjunction with COM+ Event System, this service notifies particular services when system events, such as logon and power events occurs. I doubt the average user really cares about this. I have also not seen any applications that use this. You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. I have yet to find a side effect, though...
  • Dependencies:
    • COM+ Event System
• System Restore Service ~ Creates system snap shots or restore points for returning to at a later time. This is the OTHER service that is a massive resource hog (Indexing Service is number one.) Every time you install a program or new driver, plus on a schedule, this service creates a "restore point" to roll back to if a problem occurs. This service would have been nice in the Win95 days due to plenty of problems occurring (new DirectX version every 15 minutes) but not required for the "much" more stable WinXP. This is the FIRST thing that I get rid of on a clean installation. If you use this and enjoy it, good for you. I never will. I feel it is faster and less hassle to just install clean. NOTE: If you disable this service, your previous "restore points" may be deleted. If, for what ever reason, you do not want this to happen, do not disable this service.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Task Scheduler ~ This service is used to schedule maintenance, M$ Backup sessions or maybe even Auto Update. I do everything manually, so as to avoid having this service running all the time. Some third party software may require this service to be active for automated functions, such as Virus Scanners, system maintenance tools, and automatic patch/driver lookups. Take note: BootVis Requires Task Scheduler and COM+ Event System to be running if you wish to take advantage of the "optimize system" function. Why? It is due to the pre-fetching function built into WinXP. Another Note: Pre-fetching only occurs on boot up and application start, so if you do not care about a few extra seconds of boot time, do not even bother with it and disable Task Scheduler.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Service ~ Legacy support for NetBios over TCP/IP. If your network does not use NetBios and/or WINS, disable this function.
  • Dependencies:
    • AFD Networking Support Environment
    • NetBios over TCP/IP
• TCP/IP Printer Server ~ Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Used for setting up a local UNIX print server. If you do not need this function, leave it uninstalled.
  • Dependencies:
    • Print Spooler
    • TCP/IP Protocol Driver
• Telephony ~ Controls telephony devices on the local computer. This service is Required for dial-up modem connectivity. Note: you may require this service for some cable or DSL providers, depending on how they implement their logon process or some AOL functionality, depending on software used. If your Dial-up, cable or DSL internet access no longer functions properly with this service disabled, place it into Automatic.
  • Dependencies:
    • Plug and Play
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Telnet ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Allows remote login to the local computer via the telnet function. For security reasons, this service should be Disabled unless you specifically require its functionality. You will save about 2 MB of RAM by plugging this security hole.
  • Dependencies:
    • NT LM Security Support Provider
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
    • TCP/IP Protocol Driver
• Terminal Services ~ Allows remote login to the local computer. This service is Required for Fast User Switching, Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance. You may not be able to view who is logged on to a particular computer by viewing the "user" tab located in the Task Manager if this service is disabled. For security reasons, this service should be Disabled unless you specifically require its functionality.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Themes ~ Used to display all those pretty new XP themes and colors on your desktop. If you are memory conscious and do not care about the "new" XP look, disable this service to save RAM. I have observed between 4MB to 12MB of RAM used for the new themes.

• Uninterruptible Power Supply ~ I have not found a need for this. My UPS that connects via USB, does NOT need this service to run. Windows Update also has a "patch" for this service.

• Universal Plug and Play Device Host ~ Used in conjunction with SSDP Discovery Service, it detects and configures UPnP devices on your home network. For security reasons and also for the fact that I doubt that you have any of these devices, Disable this service. If any EXTERNAL device does not function as a result of this service being disabled, place it back in to Automatic. Also, if you are experiencing difficulty connecting to multiplayer games that use DirectX7(8), place this service to Automatic and ensure you download all security updates. Furthermore, If you use Internet Connection Sharing and wish to make use of the "allow others to modify this connection" feature, enable UPnP. Take note: UPnP is NOT related to PnP. UPnP is used for connectivity on networks via TCP/IP to devices, such as scanners or printers. Your sound card is PnP. Do NOT Disable Plug and Play service. I know that not even Micro$ofts own XBOX uses this Service...
  • Dependencies:
    • SSDP Discovery Service
• Upload Manager ~ As with BITS, this service manages file transfers between clients and servers on the network. This service is NOT required for basic File and Print sharing. I have yet to find a need for this service. If you are comfortable with using TP, stick with it.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Volume Shadow Copy ~ Used in conjunction with the MS Software Shadow Copy Provider Service. M$ Backup uses these services. You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. I have yet to find a side effect, though... If you do not like the errors, place it in Manual. By taking it out of automatic, you will save about 3.0 MB of memory.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• WebClient ~ I have not found a reason to have this service running. For security reasons, I recommend for this service to be Disabled.
  • Dependencies:
    • WebDav Client Redirector
• Windows Audio ~ This service is Required if you wish to hear any audio at all. If your computer does not have a sound card, Disable this service.
  • Dependencies:
    • Plug and Play
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Windows Image Acquisition (WIA) ~ Used for some scanners, web cams and cameras. If, after Disabling this service, your scanner or camera fails to function properly, enable this service.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Windows Installer ~ This service is required for software applications that install using MSI files. If no applications that you have will install properly or you get an error that involves "RPC Service," place this service in to Automatic or Manual. Only disable this service after you have completed installation of your applications. Mainly Office and such. I am not aware how many games actually use MSI Files. In an idle state, this service uses about 3.4 MB of RAM. Put it to manual to save that amount.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Windows Management Instrumentation ~ This service is Required if you want to see the "Dependencies" tab in service configuration and you want everything to go smoothly. I do not recommend Disabling this service as strange things may start to happen.
  • Dependencies:
    • Event Log
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Windows Management Instrumentation Driver Extension ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Not as vital as Windows Management Instrumentation, but I recommend leaving this service in Manual.

• Windows Time ~ Automatically sets your clock by contacting a server on the internet. Great idea if your network is always connected to the internet, but otherwise, the Event Log fills up with "cannot find server" messages. After successful synching, this service will not attempt to do it again for 7 days..

• Wireless Zero Configuration ~ Automatic configuration for wireless network devices. If you do not have any wireless network devices in use, Disable this service.
  • Dependencies:
    • NDIS Usermode I/O Protocol
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• WMI Performance Adapter ~ I have not found a use for this service. Save the 2.5 MB to 6 MB of memory this service consumes.
  • Dependencies:
    • Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Workstation ~ Used to connect local computer to remote computers. Examples: Internet connectivity and local File and Print sharing. Many services depend on Workstation to be functioning. Leave it on Automatic.

• World Wide Web Publishing Service ~ Not available on Windows XP Home. Not installed by default on Windows XP Pro, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Used for setting up a local web server. If you do not need this function, leave it uninstalled, mainly because this service requires IIS Admin to be running and IIS has been "popular" for hackers to break.
  • Dependencies:
    • IIS Admin

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