Windows XP Service Pack 3 Services Information

Introduction

This information is valid for all versions of XP x86 (32-bit) running Service Pack 3. XP Pro x64 (64-bit) Service information and Configurations are also online.

Before adjusting your service settings, ensure that you or your system has already installed all updates by "checking now" for any available updates via Windows Update.

I cannot possibly test all configurations extensively (meaning, each persons specific computer needs), but what I can offer is what "works for me" and the obstacles I have came across so you do not have to discover them on your own. If information on this page needs a revision or expanded, please check out the forums.

An * (asterisk) indicates changes from the default.

Two ** (asterisks) indicates changes from Service Pack 2 to Service Pack 3.

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.
If you do not wish to select/change each service by hand, I offer up Service Registry files to adjust them with only a few clicks. Currently, "Default" and "Safe" are available.
If you wish to create a custom registry file, you can use my Custom Services Registry File Tool.
Service settings are global, meaning changes apply to all users.
An "*" (asterisk) indicates changes from Service Pack 2 to Service Pack 3.
All of these services are "Standard" with Windows XP after the installation of Service Pack 3. 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 posting your question on the forums, see if your question has been addressed in the FAQ!
Disabling all of the "unneeded services" reduces the footprint of the OS by up to 70%, depending on system.
Viewing Instructions: If the information is hard to read, please check out your viewing options.

Configuration Information

DEFAULT ~ What Bill G. thinks should be running on Windows XP.
"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 minimize 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.
Service Name ~ The short name used by some display methods and in the registry.
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.
"Started" ~ A service that either set to Manual or Automatic that is running by default at or shortly after boot time.
"Not Started" ~ A service set into Automatic that is not running by default at or shortly after boot time.