How to do it
There are basically two ways that are safe to turn these off. Way number one is in your msconfig (Start then Run then msconfig then click ok). When you open the msconfig you will see a tab named "Services" click on that and decide on what you want to disable. The other way is your services policy editor (Start then Run then services.msc /s then click ok). Either way you will be able to disable them. Below is the list of services, what each is and recommendation to turn them off or on.
Before you continue with this create a restore point. If something goes wrong this will be the easiest way to return the unit back to the way it was.
It is inadvisable to disable a service without being aware of the consequences, always start by setting the service to manual, reboot and test for any problems.
A service set to manual may be automatically restarted if another service is dependent on it.
A service set to disabled will not restart even if it's required to boot the machine!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Services
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6to4
IPv6 is designed to solve many of the problems of the current version of IP (known as IPv4) with regard to address depletion, security, auto configuration, extensibility, and more.
Recommend: Automatic
Alerter
Notifies users of administrative alerts. Not required under normal circumstances.
Recommend: Disabled.
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 (zone alarm, etc) to connect to the Internet.
Recommend: Automatic
Application Management
Used for Assign, Publish and Remove software services. If you can not modify your software installation of certain applications, put this service in to Automatic.
Recommend: Automatic
ASP.NET State Service
Provides support for out of process session state. If this service is stopped then the requests will be not be processes. If this services is disabled, any service that explicitly depends on it will fail to start.
Recommend: Automatic if you use asp.net programming
Automatic Updates
Used to check up to see if there is any critical or otherwise updates available for download. Take note: Manual update via Windows Update web site Requires Cryptographic Services to be running.
Recommend: Automatic
Background Intelligent Transfer
Service Used to transfer asynchronous data via http1.1 servers.
Recommend: Disabled
BrSplService
Brother Spooling Service
Recommend: Leave Alone if you have a brother printer.
ClipBook
Used to store information (cut/paste) and share it with other computers.
Recommend: Disabled
COM+ Event System
You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry from "DCOM" complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. Required for System Event Notification. Required if you want to run BootVis with the "optimize system" option.
Recommend: Disabled
COM+ System Application
You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry from "DCOM" complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. Required for System Event Notification.
Recommend: Disabled
Computer Browser
Maintains a listing of computers located on the network. This service is not needed on a standalone system. If u have a home network then do not disable.
Recommend: Disabled
Content Monitoring Tool
Hot deals content updated notifier. This is what it says when you check the service. Says it has no dependencies. I'm still trying to figure out what installs it I think its Kazaa though.
Recommended: Disable
Creative Service for CDROM Access
This service only exists for those of us with Creative soundcards and software. I found it nothing but annoying and later I uninstalled all non-driver related Creative software entirely. If you use their Disk Detector (for some bizarre reason) leave it. Otherwise, disable it. A word of warning, Creative installs Disk Detector by default and sets it to Automatic. Make sure to disable it in the Creative menu first before killing it here.
Recommend: Disable
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 mode.
Recommend: Automatic
DefWatch
This service is installed with Norton. Virus Definitions Daemon. Unless you do not want your Virus Scanner to work properly, keep this going.
Recommend: Automatic
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Directway Webcast
Part of a satellite network. Need to be enabled to use this service. no dependancies. Dependant on QoS RSVP, IPSEC, and Upload Manager.
Recommend: Automatic
Diskeeper
Controls the Diskeeper service.
This service exists only for those of us who use the Diskeeper defragmentation software as opposed to the Windows pre-installed defragmenter. Set this to Manual.
Recommend: Disable
Distributed Link Tracking Client
Maintains links with NTFS files within your computer or across a domain.
Recommend: Disabled
Distributed Transaction Coordinator
Takes care of transactions that span multiple resources. Required if using Message Queuing.
Recommend: Disabled
DNS Client
Resolves 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.
Recommend: Disabled
Error Reporting Service
Calls home to MS when application errors occurs. A waste of memory and resources.
Recommend: Disabled
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. Windows Management Instrumentation also Requires Event Log Service to be running.
Recommend: Automatic
Fast User Switching Compatibility
Unless you have many users on a system (more than 3), you probably do not even need this service to be running.
Recommend: Disabled
Fax Service
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
FTP Publishing Service
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Used to provide a FTP server on your network.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Help and Support
Required for MS online help documents.
Recommend: Automatic / manual
(HID) Human Interface Device Access
Used for specific peripherals.
Recommend: Automatic
IIS Admin
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Usually used in conjunction with local web site or FTP servers.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled unless you really want it.
IMAPI CD-Burning COM Service
Used for that cool "drag and drop" CD burn capability. You will need this service to burn CD's.
Recommend: Automatic
Indexing Service
This has always and forever been a major resource hog. Remove the function via the "Add/Remove Programs" icon in the control panel (Windows Setup Programs.)
Recommend: Disabled or even better, uninstalled
InteractiveLogon
This service is installed with Windows XP PowerToys. Uses 1.4 MB to 2 MB EACH! This service will fire off at least 2 (system and user) instances of this process.
Recommend: Disable
Internet Connection - Firewall (ICF)
Provides network address translation, addressing, name resolution and/or intrusion prevention services for a home or small office network.
Recommend: Automatic
Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
Used to allow multiple computers on your network to access the Internet via only one account.
Recommend: Disabled
IPSEC Services
May be required on some domains, but the "average" user will not need this.
Recommend: Disabled
Logical Disk Manager
Vital to run the Disk Management MMC console for dynamic volumes.
Recommend: Disabled
Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service
Vital to run the Disk Management MMC console for dynamic volumes.
Recommend: Disabled
Machine Debug Manager Service
Manages local and remote debugging for Visual Studio debuggers
Recommend: Disable unless you use a visual studio like VB 6 enterprise or .NET.
Media Manager Indexer
Part of MS Visual InterDev, Media Manager is an easy media file management system that works in conjunction with Windows Explorer. The Media Manager Indexer is a program that indexes all the information about your media files and puts it into a database. Depends on Remote procedure call. If you don't use this feature then disable it.
Recommend: Automatic
Message Queuing
Not installed by default, 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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Message Queuing Triggers
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Required if you use Message Queuing service.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Messenger
Sends messages between clients and servers. Not needed under normal "home" conditions.
This has nothing to do with MSN Messenger.
Recommend: Disabled
MS Software Shadow Copy Provider
Used in conjunction with the Volume Shadow Copy Service. MS Backup uses these services. You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry complaining about not having this service running if Disabled.
Recommend: Disabled
Net Login
Used for logging onto a Domain Controller.
Recommend: Disabled
NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing
Enables a user to access your computer using NetMeeting.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Network DDE
Unless you use remote ClipBook, Disable it.
Recommend: Disabled
Network DDE DSDM
Same as above.
Recommend: Disabled
Network Location Awareness (NLA)
Required for use with the Internet Connection Sharing Service (server only.)
Recommend: Disabled
NT LM Security Support Provider
Not needed unless you are running Message Queuing or Telnet server.
Recommend: Disabled unless needed.
Nvidia Driver Helper Service
If a system is using an Nvidia 3-D graphics processor video card with the latest XP drivers from Nvidia, your users may notice that their systems take a long time to shut down. They may be encountering a problem caused by a service called Nvidia Driver Helper Service. This service has problems closing properly, yet doesn't provoke Windows XP to display the Wait, End Task, Or Cancel dialog box. The service isn't really necessary, so you can change its Startup Type setting from Automatic to Manual or Disable in the Services console.
Recommend: Disable
Performance Logs and Alerts
Collects performance data on a schedule and sends the information to a log or triggers an alert.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Portable Media Serial Number
Retrieves serial numbers from portable music players connected to your computer.
Recommend: Disabled
Print Hardware Detection
This is installed by HP printers. I wouldn't recommend disabling this service unless you don't use your printer. At all.
Recommend: Automatic
Print Spooler
Queues up print jobs for later printing. This service is Required if you have printers, even if they are network printers
Recommend: Automatic
Protected Storage
Allows for the saving of local passwords or even web sites information (AutoComplete.) If you enjoy having your passwords saved in applications like Outlook or Dial up networking, set this service to Automatic.
Recommend: Automatic
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 have also read that this adds about 20% overhead to your network bandwidth.
Recommend: Disabled
Remote Access Auto Connection Manager
Creates a connection to a network when a program requests a remote address.
Recommend: Automatic
Remote Access Connection Manager
Creates a network connection. This service is Required if you use Internet Connection Sharing. This service may also be Required for your Internet connection.
Recommend: Automatic
Remote Desktop Help Session Manager
Manages and controls Remote Assistance.
Recommend: Disabled
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 can not disable via the Services MMC.
Recommend:Automatic.
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator
Manages the RPC name service database.
Recommend: Automatic.
Remote Registry Service
This is one of those not needed services.
Recommend: Disabled
Removable Storage
Used for managing removable media. Disable this service if you do not have items like tape backup devices, etc.
Recommend: Disable
RIP Listener
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Routing and Remote Access
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off the WinXP CD
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Script blocking Service
Script Blocking stops script-based viruses A script is a list of instructions that can be executed without user interaction. Scripts can be opened with text editors or word processing programs, so they are very easy to change. Script Blocking detects Visual Basic and Java script-based viruses without the need for specific virus definitions. It monitors the scripts for virus-like behavior and alerts you if it is found. Installed by Norton Anti Virus
Recommend: Automatic
Secondary Logon
Enables starting processes under alternate credentials.
Recommend: Disabled
Security Accounts Manager
Like Protected Storage, it saves security information for local users. This service is Required for IIS Admin.
Recommend: Disabled unless needed.
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Shell Hardware Detection
Used for the auto play of devices like memory cards, etc. Also, set to Automatic if you are experiencing problems
with laptop docking stations.
Recommend: Automatic
Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP)
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Supports the use of a local (outbound) e-mail server.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Smart Card
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.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
SNMP Trap 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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
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. Take note: UPnP is NOT related to PnP.
UPnP
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.
Recommend: Disabled
Symantec Event Manager
The NAV Event Manager receives information from all registered events. It is the middleman that ensures that the information is then sent to the Log Viewer to be processed and displayed as part of the Activity Log Report
Recommend: Automatic (You can disable this and have Norton fucntion fine.)
Symantec Password Service
Added to NAV 2003 is the option to enable password protection for accessing Options. This provides another layer that a virus or hacker would need to go through to disable modules in NAV, such as Auto-Protect or Email Scanning. It also allows administrators to control who can change options in the program.
Recommend: Automatic (This isn't an essental service and you can
disable it if you wish.)
Symantec Proxy Services
Proxy Services, for example, Symantec Email Proxy is required to manage Norton AntiVirus (NAV) email scanning feature.
Recommend: Automatic
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. You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry complaining about not having this service running if Disabled.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Automatic if resources are not an issue
Task Scheduler
This service is used to schedule maintenance, MS Backup sessions or maybe even Auto Update. 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.
Recommend: Disabled / manual
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper
Service Legacy support for NetBios over TCP/IP. If your network does not use NetBios, disable this function.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Telephony
Controls telephony devices on the local computer. This service is Required for dial-up modem connectivity.
Recommend: Disabled, Automatic if you require dial-up connectivity
Telnet
Allows remote login to the local computer via the telnet function.
Recommend: Disabled
Terminal Services
Allows remote login to the local computer. This service is Required for
Fast User Switching, Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Disabled, unless you like the new xp look. (I personally have it enabled and i do keep changing themes..
so your call)
Contd.....
There are basically two ways that are safe to turn these off. Way number one is in your msconfig (Start then Run then msconfig then click ok). When you open the msconfig you will see a tab named "Services" click on that and decide on what you want to disable. The other way is your services policy editor (Start then Run then services.msc /s then click ok). Either way you will be able to disable them. Below is the list of services, what each is and recommendation to turn them off or on.
Before you continue with this create a restore point. If something goes wrong this will be the easiest way to return the unit back to the way it was.
It is inadvisable to disable a service without being aware of the consequences, always start by setting the service to manual, reboot and test for any problems.
A service set to manual may be automatically restarted if another service is dependent on it.
A service set to disabled will not restart even if it's required to boot the machine!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Services
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6to4
IPv6 is designed to solve many of the problems of the current version of IP (known as IPv4) with regard to address depletion, security, auto configuration, extensibility, and more.
Recommend: Automatic
Alerter
Notifies users of administrative alerts. Not required under normal circumstances.
Recommend: Disabled.
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 (zone alarm, etc) to connect to the Internet.
Recommend: Automatic
Application Management
Used for Assign, Publish and Remove software services. If you can not modify your software installation of certain applications, put this service in to Automatic.
Recommend: Automatic
ASP.NET State Service
Provides support for out of process session state. If this service is stopped then the requests will be not be processes. If this services is disabled, any service that explicitly depends on it will fail to start.
Recommend: Automatic if you use asp.net programming
Automatic Updates
Used to check up to see if there is any critical or otherwise updates available for download. Take note: Manual update via Windows Update web site Requires Cryptographic Services to be running.
Recommend: Automatic
Background Intelligent Transfer
Service Used to transfer asynchronous data via http1.1 servers.
Recommend: Disabled
BrSplService
Brother Spooling Service
Recommend: Leave Alone if you have a brother printer.
ClipBook
Used to store information (cut/paste) and share it with other computers.
Recommend: Disabled
COM+ Event System
You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry from "DCOM" complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. Required for System Event Notification. Required if you want to run BootVis with the "optimize system" option.
Recommend: Disabled
COM+ System Application
You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry from "DCOM" complaining about not having this service running if Disabled. Required for System Event Notification.
Recommend: Disabled
Computer Browser
Maintains a listing of computers located on the network. This service is not needed on a standalone system. If u have a home network then do not disable.
Recommend: Disabled
Content Monitoring Tool
Hot deals content updated notifier. This is what it says when you check the service. Says it has no dependencies. I'm still trying to figure out what installs it I think its Kazaa though.
Recommended: Disable
Creative Service for CDROM Access
This service only exists for those of us with Creative soundcards and software. I found it nothing but annoying and later I uninstalled all non-driver related Creative software entirely. If you use their Disk Detector (for some bizarre reason) leave it. Otherwise, disable it. A word of warning, Creative installs Disk Detector by default and sets it to Automatic. Make sure to disable it in the Creative menu first before killing it here.
Recommend: Disable
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 mode.
Recommend: Automatic
DefWatch
This service is installed with Norton. Virus Definitions Daemon. Unless you do not want your Virus Scanner to work properly, keep this going.
Recommend: Automatic
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Directway Webcast
Part of a satellite network. Need to be enabled to use this service. no dependancies. Dependant on QoS RSVP, IPSEC, and Upload Manager.
Recommend: Automatic
Diskeeper
Controls the Diskeeper service.
This service exists only for those of us who use the Diskeeper defragmentation software as opposed to the Windows pre-installed defragmenter. Set this to Manual.
Recommend: Disable
Distributed Link Tracking Client
Maintains links with NTFS files within your computer or across a domain.
Recommend: Disabled
Distributed Transaction Coordinator
Takes care of transactions that span multiple resources. Required if using Message Queuing.
Recommend: Disabled
DNS Client
Resolves 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.
Recommend: Disabled
Error Reporting Service
Calls home to MS when application errors occurs. A waste of memory and resources.
Recommend: Disabled
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. Windows Management Instrumentation also Requires Event Log Service to be running.
Recommend: Automatic
Fast User Switching Compatibility
Unless you have many users on a system (more than 3), you probably do not even need this service to be running.
Recommend: Disabled
Fax Service
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
FTP Publishing Service
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Used to provide a FTP server on your network.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Help and Support
Required for MS online help documents.
Recommend: Automatic / manual
(HID) Human Interface Device Access
Used for specific peripherals.
Recommend: Automatic
IIS Admin
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Usually used in conjunction with local web site or FTP servers.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled unless you really want it.
IMAPI CD-Burning COM Service
Used for that cool "drag and drop" CD burn capability. You will need this service to burn CD's.
Recommend: Automatic
Indexing Service
This has always and forever been a major resource hog. Remove the function via the "Add/Remove Programs" icon in the control panel (Windows Setup Programs.)
Recommend: Disabled or even better, uninstalled
InteractiveLogon
This service is installed with Windows XP PowerToys. Uses 1.4 MB to 2 MB EACH! This service will fire off at least 2 (system and user) instances of this process.
Recommend: Disable
Internet Connection - Firewall (ICF)
Provides network address translation, addressing, name resolution and/or intrusion prevention services for a home or small office network.
Recommend: Automatic
Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
Used to allow multiple computers on your network to access the Internet via only one account.
Recommend: Disabled
IPSEC Services
May be required on some domains, but the "average" user will not need this.
Recommend: Disabled
Logical Disk Manager
Vital to run the Disk Management MMC console for dynamic volumes.
Recommend: Disabled
Logical Disk Manager Administrative Service
Vital to run the Disk Management MMC console for dynamic volumes.
Recommend: Disabled
Machine Debug Manager Service
Manages local and remote debugging for Visual Studio debuggers
Recommend: Disable unless you use a visual studio like VB 6 enterprise or .NET.
Media Manager Indexer
Part of MS Visual InterDev, Media Manager is an easy media file management system that works in conjunction with Windows Explorer. The Media Manager Indexer is a program that indexes all the information about your media files and puts it into a database. Depends on Remote procedure call. If you don't use this feature then disable it.
Recommend: Automatic
Message Queuing
Not installed by default, 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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Message Queuing Triggers
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Required if you use Message Queuing service.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Messenger
Sends messages between clients and servers. Not needed under normal "home" conditions.
This has nothing to do with MSN Messenger.
Recommend: Disabled
MS Software Shadow Copy Provider
Used in conjunction with the Volume Shadow Copy Service. MS Backup uses these services. You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry complaining about not having this service running if Disabled.
Recommend: Disabled
Net Login
Used for logging onto a Domain Controller.
Recommend: Disabled
NetMeeting Remote Desktop Sharing
Enables a user to access your computer using NetMeeting.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Network DDE
Unless you use remote ClipBook, Disable it.
Recommend: Disabled
Network DDE DSDM
Same as above.
Recommend: Disabled
Network Location Awareness (NLA)
Required for use with the Internet Connection Sharing Service (server only.)
Recommend: Disabled
NT LM Security Support Provider
Not needed unless you are running Message Queuing or Telnet server.
Recommend: Disabled unless needed.
Nvidia Driver Helper Service
If a system is using an Nvidia 3-D graphics processor video card with the latest XP drivers from Nvidia, your users may notice that their systems take a long time to shut down. They may be encountering a problem caused by a service called Nvidia Driver Helper Service. This service has problems closing properly, yet doesn't provoke Windows XP to display the Wait, End Task, Or Cancel dialog box. The service isn't really necessary, so you can change its Startup Type setting from Automatic to Manual or Disable in the Services console.
Recommend: Disable
Performance Logs and Alerts
Collects performance data on a schedule and sends the information to a log or triggers an alert.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Portable Media Serial Number
Retrieves serial numbers from portable music players connected to your computer.
Recommend: Disabled
Print Hardware Detection
This is installed by HP printers. I wouldn't recommend disabling this service unless you don't use your printer. At all.
Recommend: Automatic
Print Spooler
Queues up print jobs for later printing. This service is Required if you have printers, even if they are network printers
Recommend: Automatic
Protected Storage
Allows for the saving of local passwords or even web sites information (AutoComplete.) If you enjoy having your passwords saved in applications like Outlook or Dial up networking, set this service to Automatic.
Recommend: Automatic
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 have also read that this adds about 20% overhead to your network bandwidth.
Recommend: Disabled
Remote Access Auto Connection Manager
Creates a connection to a network when a program requests a remote address.
Recommend: Automatic
Remote Access Connection Manager
Creates a network connection. This service is Required if you use Internet Connection Sharing. This service may also be Required for your Internet connection.
Recommend: Automatic
Remote Desktop Help Session Manager
Manages and controls Remote Assistance.
Recommend: Disabled
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 can not disable via the Services MMC.
Recommend:Automatic.
Remote Procedure Call (RPC) Locator
Manages the RPC name service database.
Recommend: Automatic.
Remote Registry Service
This is one of those not needed services.
Recommend: Disabled
Removable Storage
Used for managing removable media. Disable this service if you do not have items like tape backup devices, etc.
Recommend: Disable
RIP Listener
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Routing and Remote Access
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off the WinXP CD
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Script blocking Service
Script Blocking stops script-based viruses A script is a list of instructions that can be executed without user interaction. Scripts can be opened with text editors or word processing programs, so they are very easy to change. Script Blocking detects Visual Basic and Java script-based viruses without the need for specific virus definitions. It monitors the scripts for virus-like behavior and alerts you if it is found. Installed by Norton Anti Virus
Recommend: Automatic
Secondary Logon
Enables starting processes under alternate credentials.
Recommend: Disabled
Security Accounts Manager
Like Protected Storage, it saves security information for local users. This service is Required for IIS Admin.
Recommend: Disabled unless needed.
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.
Recommend: Automatic
Shell Hardware Detection
Used for the auto play of devices like memory cards, etc. Also, set to Automatic if you are experiencing problems
with laptop docking stations.
Recommend: Automatic
Simple Mail Transport Protocol (SMTP)
Not installed by default, but if needed, you may install it later off of the WinXP CD. Supports the use of a local (outbound) e-mail server.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Smart Card
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.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
SNMP Trap 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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
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. Take note: UPnP is NOT related to PnP.
UPnP
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.
Recommend: Disabled
Symantec Event Manager
The NAV Event Manager receives information from all registered events. It is the middleman that ensures that the information is then sent to the Log Viewer to be processed and displayed as part of the Activity Log Report
Recommend: Automatic (You can disable this and have Norton fucntion fine.)
Symantec Password Service
Added to NAV 2003 is the option to enable password protection for accessing Options. This provides another layer that a virus or hacker would need to go through to disable modules in NAV, such as Auto-Protect or Email Scanning. It also allows administrators to control who can change options in the program.
Recommend: Automatic (This isn't an essental service and you can
disable it if you wish.)
Symantec Proxy Services
Proxy Services, for example, Symantec Email Proxy is required to manage Norton AntiVirus (NAV) email scanning feature.
Recommend: Automatic
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. You will receive, in the Event Log, a entry complaining about not having this service running if Disabled.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Automatic if resources are not an issue
Task Scheduler
This service is used to schedule maintenance, MS Backup sessions or maybe even Auto Update. 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.
Recommend: Disabled / manual
TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper
Service Legacy support for NetBios over TCP/IP. If your network does not use NetBios, disable this function.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Leave not installed or Disabled
Telephony
Controls telephony devices on the local computer. This service is Required for dial-up modem connectivity.
Recommend: Disabled, Automatic if you require dial-up connectivity
Telnet
Allows remote login to the local computer via the telnet function.
Recommend: Disabled
Terminal Services
Allows remote login to the local computer. This service is Required for
Fast User Switching, Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance.
Recommend: Disabled
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.
Recommend: Disabled, unless you like the new xp look. (I personally have it enabled and i do keep changing themes..
so your call)Contd.....
