Background Intelligent Transfer Service in Windows Server 2003 white paper

The "Background Intelligent Transfer Service in Windows Server 2003" white paper is an introduction to the Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS). The white paper is for IT professionals who are interested in using BITS from within a software application.

BITS transfers files by using leftover bandwidth. For example, if you are currently using 60 percent of your bandwidth, BITS will only use the remaining 40 percent. BITS also maintains file transfers when a network disconnection occurs or a computer must be restarted. When the network connection is reestablished, BITS will continue from the point it was disrupted.

Note BITS version 1.0 is included with Microsoft Windows XP and only supports downloads. BITS version 1.5 is included with Windows Server 2003 and supports both downloads and uploads. Uploads require Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) server with the BITS server extension installed.

To view this white paper, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

Topics That Are Included in This White Paper

• Why BITS?
• Lifecycle of a BITS Job
• Users and Network Connections
• Service Accounts and BITS
• Job Status
• File Availability
• BITS Server
• Comparing BITS to Other Internet Data Transfer Technologies
• Tools and Samples
• Frequently Asked Questions