Windows 2000 Professional and Server
Services Descriptions

Notes for a happier Computer and User

  • Before disabling ANY service, check out the information I have about each service by clicking on the name.
  • Service settings are global, meaning changes apply to all users.
  • Only disable a few services at a time to avoid changing "50" settings and trying to figure out "what broke it".
  • Still unsure? Put your setting to "manual" or the listing under "Safe".
    Manual allows Windows 2000 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 Automatic.
  • After adjusting your service settings, reboot your computer.
  • All of these services are "Standard" with Windows 2000 Pro and Server using Service Pack 4.
    If you discover something other running than the ones listed here, they were installed by another program.
    Check the list of some of the more common ones for Windows XP.
    Most, if not all, are valid for Windows 2000 as well.
  • Disabling all of the "unneeded services" frees up 12-70 MB of RAM, depending on system.

Configuration Information

  • DEFAULT Server => this is what runs by default on Windows 2000 Server.
  • DEFAULT Pro => this is what runs by default on Windows 2000 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 this scares you, this configuration would be a good starting point.
    Note:
    This is not for Windows 2000 Server in a corporate environment.
    Every network is different.
    Only you can decide what you need.
  • Dependencies => describes what services this service needs and what other services require for proper functionality.
  • 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.

Alerter

The Alerter service notifies users of administrative alerts.
This service usually is not required under normal circumstances. Note: This is NOT "WinPopUp".

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Alerter needs to function properly:

What other service require Alerter to function properly:

  • None

Application Management

Used for Assign, Publish and Remove software services.
If you cannot modify your software installation of certain applications, put this service into automatic or manual.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service Application Management needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Application Management to function properly:

  • None

Automatic Updates

This service is used to check up to see if there is any critical or otherwise updates available for download.
You may choose to update manually due to the very long lag time from when an update is available and when Windows 2000 reports it. However, after the installation of Service Pack 3, you may configure how "often" updates are checked. Using default values, Windows 2000 "Automatically" downloads the updates and asks to "install" them. A few reasons why you may think this is unacceptable in your situation:

  • You could have a dial-up connection.
    If 2000 feels like downloading whenever it wants, it just may not allow you to do what "you" want.
  • You may also:
    • Wish to know what, when and how an update installs BEFORE using any bandwidth.
    • Want to read about the update BEFORE downloading.
    • Want to know WHY you need it and WHAT it fixes.

It is very important that if you decide to disable this service, you check the Windows Update site often to ensure the latest patches install properly.

Take note: Manual (and Automatic) updates via Windows Update web site requires Background Intelligent Transfer Service, and System Event Notification.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Automatic Updates needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Automatic Updates to function properly:

  • None

Background Intelligent Transfer Service

This service is used to transfer asynchronous data via http1.1 servers.
According to Microsoft'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).
The problem with that is I do not like having this "feature" running all of the time.
Even though I have found no side effects as to this being disabled, you may require this service for some MSN Explorer, Windows Messenger, Windows Media Player or future .NET functions.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What services Background Intelligent Transfer Service needs to function properly:

What other service require Background Intelligent Transfer Service to function properly:

  • None

ClipBook

Used to store information (cut / paste) and share it with other computers.
I have never found enough need for this to allow this service to always be running.
This service alone uses about 1.3 MB of memory.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What services ClipBook needs to function properly:

What other service require ClipBook to function properly:

  • None

COM+ Event System

You will receive, in the Event Log, an 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.
This service is required for System Event Notification. For the fun of it:

"C:\Program Files\ComPlus Applications\"

On your system, see if you have any installed "COM+" Applications.
If not, you can probably disable this service with no side effects (besides the Event Log complaining upon reboots).

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service COM+ Event System needs to function properly:

What other services require COM+ Event System to function properly:

Computer Browser

Computer Browser service maintains a listing of computers and resources located on the network.
This service is not required on a standalone system.
In fact, even if you want to browse the network (workgroup or domain) or have mapped network shares as local hard drives, you can still do so. On a large network, one computer is designated the "master" browser and another one is the "backup" browser.
All others just announce they are available every 12 minutes to "take over" duties if one of the other computers fail.
No lag time is discernable if this service remains disabled on all but one computer.
Honestly, I do not even believe one needs to be running.
You could, "just in case," but it sure does not need to be running on all computers, all of the time.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What services Computer Browser needs to function properly:

What other service require Computer Browser to function properly:

  • None

DHCP Client

This service automatically receives a Dynamic IP address from your DHCP server and DNS updates.
Required for ICS / internet client and if you run IPSEC, disable on a standalone system or one that has a static IP address.
Take note: Most DSL/cable ISP's use DHCP to provide internet access.
If you disable this service and your Internet connection no longer works, place this back into automatic.
Most DSL and cable hardware routers have the option of enabling a DHCP server for the internal network.
Ensure that the router is configured the same as your local PC's.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What services DHCP Client needs to function properly:

What other service require DHCP Client to function properly:

  • None

Distributed Link Tracking Client

Automatically maintains links with NTFS files within your computer or across a domain.
For example, you make a file on "Computer A".
You then create a "short cut" or "link" to that file on "Computer B".
If you would move the file on Computer A to a different location, this service would tell Computer B to update its information to allow uninterrupted connectivity. 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.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service Distributed Link Tracking Client needs to function properly:

What other service require Distributed Link Tracking Client to function properly:

  • None

Distributed Transaction Coordinator

Takes care of transactions that span multiple resources.
You may also see complaints in the Event Log if this service is disabled, but I have experienced no side effects.
Microsoft's .NET may require this service in the future.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What services Distributed Transaction Coordinator needs to function properly:

What other service require Distributed Transaction Coordinator to function properly:

DNS Client

Resolves and caches DNS names and Active Directory domain controller functions.
This service is not required for DNS lookups, but if it makes you happy to have it running, you may.
This service is required if using IPSEC.
If your computer connects to a network with a domain controller, you will be unable to connect to Active Directory with this service disabled. To reduce network traffic to your ISP's DNS servers, leave this service on automatic.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service DNS Client needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require DNS Client to function properly:

  • None

Event Log

View Event Log messages from applications 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.
To see quickly what, if anything has resulted in your adjustments, you may consider clearing the Event Log.
It is just best to keep Event Log active for troubleshooting purposes and normal operations.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Event Log needs to function properly:

  • None

What other services require Event Log to function properly:

Fax Service

Maintains the ability to send and receive FAX documents on your computer.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What services Fax Service needs to function properly:

What other service require Fax Service to function properly:

  • None

FTP Publishing Service

Not installed by default, but if you need it, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 CD.
This service provides a FTP server on your network.

Default 2000 Server: Not installed
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What services FTP Publishing Service needs to function properly:

What other service require FTP Publishing Service to function properly:

  • None

IIS Admin Service

Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 CD.
This service usually operates in conjunction with a local web site or FTP servers.
Leave it uninstalled mainly because IIS has been "popular" for crackers to break.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What services IIS Admin Service needs to function properly:

What other services require IIS Admin Service to function properly:

Indexing Service

This service always has 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 500 K to 2 MB in an idle state, not to mention the amount of memory and CPU resources it takes to INDEX the drives.
I have had people (and witnessed it on other people's computers) report to me that the Indexing Service sometimes starts up EVEN while the system is NOT idle... as in the middle of a game.
You may feel, as I do, that this is unacceptable.
If your computer suddenly seems "sluggish," Indexing Service is usually the cause of it.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Indexing Service needs to function properly:

What other service require Indexing Service to function properly:

  • None

Internet Connection Sharing

This service is used to allow multiple computers on your network to access the internet via only one account.
This service installs on the "modem" computer.
 If you are using a third party Internet Connection Sharing software package, this service is not required.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What services Internet Connection Sharing needs to function properly:

What other service require Internet Connection Sharing to function properly:

  • None

IPSEC Policy Agent

May be required on some domains or VPN connections, but the "average" user will not need this.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service IPSEC Policy Agent needs to function properly:

What other service require IPSEC Policy Agent to function properly:

  • None

Logical Disk Manager

This service is 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.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What services Logical Disk Manager needs to function properly:

What other service require Logical Disk Manager to function properly:

Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service

This service is vital to run the Disk Management MMC console for dynamic volumes.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What services Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service needs to function properly:

What other service require Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service to function properly:

  • None

Message Queuing

May be used on some domains, but the "average" home user will never need this service.

Default 2000 Server: Not Installed
Default 2000 Pro: Not Installed
Safe Setting: Not Installed

Dependencies:

What services Message Queuing needs to function properly:

What other service require Message Queuing to function properly:

  • None

Messenger

This service provides the ability to send messages between clients and servers.
This service needs not to be running under normal "home" conditions.
It is also advisable to make this service go away to avoid the possibility of "net send" messages hitting your computer from the internet.
This has nothing to do with MSN Messenger, nor is it "WinPopUp."

To test for this security vulnerability, at the command prompt, (run: cmd.exe) type:

net send 127.0.0.1 hi

If you get a popup "hi" message, you should disable the Messenger service.
If you get an error stating, "The message alias could not be found on the network," you are safe.

If, for whatever reason, you need the Messenger service running but wish not to have spam popups active, you can disable the particular ports at your firewall. The Messenger service uses UDP ports 135, 137, and 138; TCP ports 135, 139, and 445.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What services Messenger needs to function properly:

What other service require Messenger to function properly:

  • None

Net Logon

Used for logging onto a Domain Controller.
This service is not required on a standalone system, or for a "home" network.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Net Logon needs to function properly:

What other service require Net Logon to function properly:

  • None

NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing

Enables a user to access your computer using NetMeeting.
This may create a BIG open door for the unwanted.
If you are paranoid about security, disable this function.
Even if you were not worried, I would still get rid of it.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing to function properly:

  • None

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 no longer operates 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.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Network Connections needs to function properly:

What other service require Network Connections to function properly:

  • None

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.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Network DDE needs to function properly:

What other service require Network DDE to function properly:

Network DDE DSDM

I have not found a good use for this service.
Unless you use remote ClipBook, disable it.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Network DDE DSDM needs to function properly:

  • None

What other services require Network DDE DSDM to function properly:

NT LM Security Support Provider

Manages local system security information on the computer.
You need this service if you are running Message Queuing or Telnet server.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service NT LM Security Support Provider needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require NT LM Security Support Provider to function properly:

Performance Logs and Alerts

Collect performance data on a schedule and send the information to a log or trigger 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.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Performance Logs and Alerts needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Performance Logs and Alerts to function properly:

  • None

Plug and Play

This service is the heart and soul of the Plug and Play environment.
I do not recommend disabling this service, but if you want to, you are on your own.
Take note: UPnP is NOT PnP.
UPnP is 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.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Plug and Play needs to function properly:

  • None

What other services require Plug and Play to function properly:

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.
I am not aware of anything that actually requires it.
Disable it unless something of yours ceases to function properly, such as Windows Media Player and Microsoft's integration with "Digital Rights Management" and copy protection.

Dependencies:

What service Portable Media Serial Number needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Portable Media Serial Number to function properly:

  • None

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.
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.
I place this service into manual mode and only start it up when printing is required.
In manual mode, the service will not automatically start at boot time.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Print Spooler needs to function properly:

What other services require Print Spooler to function properly:

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.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Protected Storage needs to function properly:

What other services require Protected Storage to function properly:

QoS RSVP

Provides traffic control on a network using IPSEC and applications that support QoS, and have an adapter that supports it.
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.
You may require this service to be placed on Automatic if you use Windows Media Player or NetMeeting.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service QoS RSVP needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require QoS RSVP to function properly:

  • None

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 direct cable or DSL providers and connections, 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. If you use a hardware gateway or router, this service is not required.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What services Remote Access Auto Connection Manager needs to function properly:

What other service require Remote Access Auto Connection Manager to function properly:

  • None

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. If you use a hardware gateway or router, this service is not required.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What services Remote Access Connection Manager needs to function properly:

What other services require Remote Access Connection Manager to function properly:

Remote Procedure Call (RPC)

This service is rather vital. Practically everything depends on this service to be running.
This is also the only service that you should not (and will not) disable via the Services MMC.
If you do, your computer may (will) become unbootable AND you cannot place this service back to automatic to fix it.
Leave it on Automatic and do not change it.
If, for whatever reason, the service became disabled and you can no longer boot your system, use the Recovery Console to enable this service again.

Recent virus activity has prompted me to post additional information regarding Remote Procedure Call and automatic shutdowns.
Please ensure you read all the information I have available to ensure you are not affected by this latest internet threat.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Remote Procedure Call (RPC) needs to function properly:

  • None

What other services require Remote Procedure Call (RPC) to function properly:

Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator

Manages the RPC name service database.
I have not found a reason to keep this service running.
However, if something on your network breaks after you disable this service, put it back to manual. About 1.2 MB of RAM is in use with this service.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator needs to function properly:

What other service require Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator to function properly:

  • None

Remote Registry Service

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.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Remote Registry Service needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Remote Registry Service to function properly:

  • None

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 does not need to be running and you will not miss any of its functionality.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Removable Storage needs to function properly:

What other service require Removable Storage to function properly:

  • None

RIP Listener

Not installed by default, but if you need it, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 CD.
If you do not know what RIP is, you do not need this service installed. :)

Default 2000 Server: Not installed
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What service RIP Listener needs to function properly:

What other service require RIP Listener to function properly:

  • None

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.

Default 2000 Server: Disabled
Default 2000 Pro: Disabled
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What services Routing and Remote Access needs to function properly:

What other service require Routing and Remote Access to function properly:

  • None

RunAs Service

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.
You can also have a privileged user start an application or process with limited privileged account.
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.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service RunAs Service needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require RunAs Service to function properly:

  • None

Security Accounts Manager

Like Protected Storage, it saves security information for local users.
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 apply.
For "Safe" configurations, place this into automatic.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Security Accounts Manager needs to function properly:

  • None

What other services require Security Accounts Manager to function properly:

Server

Used for file and print sharing from your computer.
For security purposes, you may disable this service if you do not require local printers and files shared across your network.
Connectivity, however, still exists even on incoming shared network drives.
Workstation needs to be running to connect to another computer that has the files you are looking for.
Note: If you disable File and Print sharing, the Server Service may disappear from the Services listing.
Just enable File and Print sharing again and the Server Service will return.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Server needs to function properly:

  • None

What other services require Server to function properly:

Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP)

Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the Windows 2000 CD.
This service supports the use of a local (outbound) E-Mail server.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What services Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP) needs to function properly:

What other service require Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP) to function properly:

  • None

Simple TCP/IP Services

Not installed by default, but if you need it, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 CD.
This service supports some old school UNIX networking services.

Default 2000 Server: Not installed
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What service Simple TCP/IP Services needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Simple TCP/IP Services to function properly:

  • None

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.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Smart Card needs to function properly:

What other service require Smart Card to function properly:

  • None

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.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Smart Card Helper needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Smart Card Helper to function properly:

  • None

SNMP Service

Not installed by default, but if you need it, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 CD.
This service supports the use of networking equipment that uses SNMP as a mode of management.

Default 2000 Server: Not installed
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What service SNMP Service needs to function properly:

What other service require SNMP Service to function properly:

  • None

SNMP Trap Service

Not installed by default, but if you need it, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 CD.
As above, supports the use of networking equipment that use SNMP as a mode of management.

Default 2000 Server: Not installed
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What service SNMP Trap Service needs to function properly:

What other service require SNMP Trap Service to function properly:

  • None

System Event Notification

Used in conjunction with COM+ Event System, this service notifies particular services when system events, such as logon and power events occur. I doubt the average user really cares about this.
The only applications that I am aware of that uses this is Automatic Updates and Background Intelligent Transfer Service.
You will receive, in the Event Log, an entry complaining about not having this service running if disabled.
I have yet to find a side effect, though, unless you are using Automatic Update.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What services System Event Notification needs to function properly:

What other service require System Event Notification to function properly:

Task Scheduler

You use this service to schedule maintenance, Microsoft Backup sessions, or maybe even Auto Update.
I do everything manually, 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.
If you plan to schedule tasks, ensure that Protected Storage also is running.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Task Scheduler needs to function properly:

What other service require Task Scheduler to function properly:

  • None

TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Service

This feature provides legacy support for NetBIOS over TCP/IP.
If your network does not use NetBIOS and / or WINS, disable this function.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Service needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Service to function properly:

  • None

TCP/IP Print Server

Not installed by default, but if you need it, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 CD.
Used for setting up a local UNIX print server. If you do not need this function, leave it uninstalled.

Default 2000 Server: Not installed
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What services TCP/IP Print Server needs to function properly:

What other service require TCP/IP Print Server to function properly:

  • None

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 direct cable or DSL providers, depending on how they implement their logon process or some AOL functionality, depending on software used.
If Dial-up, cable or DSL internet access no longer functions properly with this service disabled, place it into automatic.
If you are connecting via a hardware router or gateway, this service is not needed.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What services Telephony needs to function properly:

What other services require Telephony to function properly:

Telnet

It allows remote login to the local computer via the telnet function.
For security reasons, disable this unless you specifically require its functionality.
You will save about 2 MB of RAM by plugging this security hole.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Telnet needs to function properly:

What other service require Telnet to function properly:

  • None

Uninterruptible Power Supply

I have not found a need for this.
My UPS that connects via USB does NOT need this service to run.
However, some APC UPS install a totally different service for communication.
Some UPS connected via serial port may require this service to be running

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Uninterruptible Power Supply needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Uninterruptible Power Supply to function properly:

  • None

Utility Manager

Provides the ability to configure accessibility tools from one window.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Utility Manager needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Utility Manager to function properly:

  • None

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.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service Windows Installer needs to function properly:

What other service require Windows Installer to function properly:

  • None

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.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service Windows Management Instrumentation needs to function properly:

What other service require Windows Management Instrumentation to function properly:

  • None

Windows Management Instrumentation Driver Extension

This service is not as vital as Windows Management Instrumentation, but I recommend leaving this service in manual.

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Manual

Dependencies:

What service Windows Management Instrumentation Driver Extension needs to function properly:

What other services require Windows Management Instrumentation Driver Extension to function properly:

Windows Time

Automatically sets your clock by contacting a server (Microsoft's server by default) on the internet.
Great idea if your network connects to the internet 24/7.
The Event Log fills up with "cannot find server" messages on a non-dedicated setup, though.
After successful synchronizing, this service will not attempt to do it again for 7 days, meanwhile, taking up resources.
You may also need Task Scheduler running.
You may choose to set your clock manually on a dial up connection, but with a 24/7 broadband setup, this could keep you on time for work. Note: as mentioned, ?time.windows.com? is the default server for synchronization. For those privacy conscious people that prefer to connect to a government site rather then MS, use ?time.nist.gov.?

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What service Windows Time needs to function properly:

  • None

What other service require Windows Time to function properly:

  • None

Wireless Configuration

Provides access control using 802.1x for authentication and automatic configuration for wireless network devices.
If you do not have any wireless network devices in use on the local system, disable this service.
You may require this service for connectivity with some "hot sync" software for a PDA, laptop or other portable computer

Default 2000 Server: Manual
Default 2000 Pro: Manual
Safe Setting: Disabled

Dependencies:

What services Wireless Configuration needs to function properly:

What other service require Wireless Configuration to function properly:

  • None

Workstation

Used to connect local computer to remote computers.
Examples may include local network connectivity and File and Print sharing.
Many services depend on Workstation to be functioning. Leave it on automatic for safe configurations.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Automatic
Safe Setting: Automatic

Dependencies:

What service Workstation needs to function properly:

  • None

What other services require Workstation to function properly:

World Wide Web Publishing Service

Not installed by default, but if you need it, you may install it later off the Windows 2000 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 crackers to break.

Default 2000 Server: Automatic
Default 2000 Pro: Not installed
Safe Setting: Not installed

Dependencies:

What services World Wide Web Publishing Service needs to function properly:

What other service require World Wide Web Publishing Service to function properly:

  • None

Features:

Windows Service Configurations!

Includes explanations of each service and advice on which services you can safely disable.


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