Transfers files in the background using idle network bandwidth. If the service is disabled, then any applications that depend on BITS, such as Windows Update or MSN Explorer, will be unable to automatically download programs and other information.
This service is used to transfer asynchronous data via HTTP 1.1 servers. BITS "continues" a download when you log back in after you log off or shutdown the system during a download. You may require this service for some, Windows Live Messenger, Windows Media Player or future .NET or Live functions.
Take note: Manual updates via Windows Update Version 6 web site still requires Windows Update, Cryptographic Services, Background Intelligent Transfer Service, and Windows Event Log to be running. Place all four in automatic if you do not wish to update manually. In addition, I recommend that you change the default time of 3 AM, for the automatic checking of updates, to a time when the system is "normally" on. Otherwise, Windows Update will check upon boot which may slow down the boot process.
With Windows Vista Retail, this service incorrectly listed Remote Procedure Call (RPC) needing BITS as a dependency. This has been corrected with Service Pack 1.
Default Vista Home Basic: Automatic (Delayed Start)
Default Vista Home Premium: Automatic (Delayed Start)
Default Vista Business: Automatic (Delayed Start)
Default Vista Ultimate: Automatic (Delayed Start)
Safe Setting: Automatic (Delayed Start)
Service Name (registry): BITS
Display Name: Background Intelligent Transfer Service
C:\Windows\System32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs
Account: Local System Account
What service Background Intelligent Transfer Service needs to function properly:
What other service require Background Intelligent Transfer Service to function properly:
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Windows Service Configurations!
Includes explanations of each service and advice on which services you can safely disable.