www.BlackViper.com: Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Configurations

Introduction

Breakdown of all changes to date: Windows Server 2008 R2 Information Changelog.

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 you can add or remove this service by:

• Head to Start
• Select Administrative Tools
• Select Server Manager
• Select Roles or Features

Notes for a Happier Computer and User

• Do not use "msconfig" to disable services, type "services.msc" in the Run box instead!
• 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.
• All of these services are "Standard" with Windows Server 2008 R2 and installed by default. If you discover a service that is not listed here, another application, driver, program or Server Manager installed them.
• 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.
• Before posting your question on the forums, see if your question has been addressed in the FAQ!
• Viewing Instructions: If the information is hard to read, please check out your viewing options.

Table Header Information

• The columns are sortable. Select the column header to sort by that field.
• DEFAULT ~ What MS thinks should be running on Windows Server 2008 R2.
  • This is a snapshot of the service configurations for a "Full Installation" before any server roles or features have been installed.
• "Safe" Configuration ~ This is the configuration that most servers 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 or your company, but if adjusting your services scares you, this configuration would be a good starting point.
  • 13 service settings have been changed from the default annotated by an (*) asterisk.
  • Diagnostic and remote services (such as Remote Registry) are disabled. If you require remote management for your server, ensure the proper services are enabled for what ever method you chose (Remote Desktop, WS Management, etc).
  • N/A listings should be considered needed if the Feature or Role is installed for your particular requirements.
  • This system is not a member of a domain controller and no services that require said membership are listed here.

Configuration Information

• 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. If you find you do not need a service, place it into Manual or Disabled.
• Automatic (Delayed Start) ~ With a service in this state, it will start just after boot time. Some services, when no longer required, will also automatically stop when not needed. 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 Automatic or Manual 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.
• "Not Available" ~ A service that does not apply to the particular version.

Service Dependency Abbreviation Information

• W ~ Windows Web Server 2008 R2
• S ~ Windows Server 2008 R2 Standard
• E ~ Windows Server 2008 R2 Enterprise
• D ~ Windows Server 2008 R2 Datacenter

Black Viper's Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Configurations

An * (asterisk) indicates changes from the default.

Two ** (asterisks) indicates you can add or remove this service by:

• Head to Start
• Select Administrative Tools
• Select Server Manager
• Select Roles or Features